5 June 2009 - A symposium on food safety and food security being held today, 5 June, in Tokyo is a further opportunity for Japan and New Zealand to renew their partnership in food, says the NZ International Business Forum.

"Japan is a major market for New Zealand's food exports. Japanese consumers rely on New Zealand to provide a secure supply of safe and sustainably produced food. Continuing to meet the requirements and expectations of Japanese consumers in the areas of food safety and food security will be a key determinant in maintaining New Zealand's competitive edge in the Japanese market" said NZIBF Executive Director Stephen Jacobi.

The Japan-New Zealand Food Safety and Food Security Symposium is being organised by the New Zealand Embassy, the Japan Friendship Exchange Council, and New Zealand Trade and Enterprise.

The Symposium will bring together over 100 Japanese attendees including officials, food industry representatives, academics, media and consumer groups. NZIBF Chair Graeme Harrison is in Tokyo to address the gathering.

Mr Jacobi said the idea for a Food Symposium grew out of the first Japan NZ Partnership Forum held in Tokyo in May 2008.

"It was clear at the Partnership Forum that the relationship between New Zealand suppliers of food and Japanese industry and consumers was a significant element in the expanding partnership between the two countries. We look forward to hearing of the outcomes of the symposium at the second Japan NZ Partnership Forum to be held in Tokyo later this year".