Suspected Unauthorized Flow of Ehime’s Premium 'Beni Princess' Citrus to China Triggers Investigation

Ehime Prefecture officials, led by Governor Tokihiro Nakamura, have formally requested emergency assistance from Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) to investigate the suspected unauthorized flow of the 'Beni Princess' citrus variety to China. Developed over two decades, this premium variety is known for its delicate texture and high sugar content.

Reports indicate that 'Beni Princess' saplings are being sold on Chinese e-commerce platforms. Investigations by media outlets confirmed local Chinese sellers claiming the product originated from Ningbo, Zhejiang Province. Previously, other Japanese citrus varieties like 'Beni Madonna' lacked intellectual property registration in China, making legal enforcement difficult.

Governor Nakamura expressed deep concern, noting that the 'Beni Princess' serves as a symbol of recovery following the 2018 western Japan floods. Despite strict protective measures—such as limiting authorized sapling distributors and restricting facility access—the breach persists. Minister of Agriculture Norikazu Suzuki pledged government support, citing that approximately 50 Japanese fruit varieties, including Shine Muscat grapes, are currently subject to unauthorized overseas cultivation, resulting in estimated annual losses of 20 billion yen. The ministry plans to launch a specialized monitoring and legal protection agency by August.