As part of its strategy to expand exports of prefecture-produced beef to Islamic countries, Miyazaki Prefecture held a Miyazaki Beef Reception in Dubai on January 23, in anticipation of the lifting of the export ban on Miyazaki beef to the United Arab Emirates. The event took place at a luxury hotel and welcomed around 100 attendees, including local buyers, distributors, and restaurant professionals.
The initiative follows the halal certification obtained by SE Meat Miyazaki Co., Ltd., the first company in Miyazaki Prefecture to receive halal certification, marking a significant step toward entering Middle Eastern markets.
The reception opened with a seminar highlighting the distinctive qualities of Miyazaki Beef, its outstanding achievements at the National Wagyu Beef Competition, and the advanced processing facilities operated by SE Meat Miyazaki. This was followed by a live cutting demonstration, during which local chefs received guidance on cutting and cooking less commonly used cuts in the UAE market, such as rump and aitchbone.
Participants were also treated to a tasting of four dishes prepared using premium Miyazaki beef sirloin and rib-eye, allowing guests to experience the beef’s refined sweetness, rich aroma, and well-balanced fat.
Speaking at the event, Vice Governor Hikuma said that Miyazaki Beef, produced with great care by local livestock farmers, was highly appreciated by attendees. He added that the cutting seminar successfully introduced new ways of utilizing non-premium cuts, attracting strong interest from local chefs and industry professionals.
JA Miyazaki Vice President Sakashita noted that despite ongoing challenges faced by producers due to rising feed and input costs, the event clearly demonstrated the strong demand for Miyazaki Beef in the UAE market. He expressed hope that further export expansion would contribute to improving producers’ income.
The event also attracted strong interest from local chefs and buyers, many of whom praised Miyazaki Beef for its superior texture, balanced flavor, and strict quality control standards. Several participants expressed interest in incorporating Miyazaki Beef into a wider range of local dishes beyond its current uses.
Also in attendance was Mr. Imanishi, Consul-General of Japan in Dubai, who highlighted the growing popularity of Wagyu beef in the Middle East and expressed hope that the event would deepen understanding of the philosophy and dedication behind Miyazaki Beef, leading to expanded exports to the UAE.
The reception concluded with business meetings between exporters and buyers, reinforcing its role as an important platform for strengthening trade channels for Miyazaki Beef in the UAE and other Islamic countries.
