Distribution of fisheries products in Japan – A prospective model for improvement of domestic fish marketing in India

In Japan, the central wholesale markets are playing a key role in the distribution of fish and fisheries products. The local governments under the approval of Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and in accordance with the wholesale market law have established the central wholesale markets. The central wholesale markets distribute about 60–70% of the fisheries products in the country. These facilities are established for bringing the products from various producers, setting the fair price and providing the stable distribution of perishables such as Marine products, Meat, Vegetables and Fruits. Collection, Fair pricing, Commodity distribution, Sound settlement of accounts and providing information are the major functions of the wholesale markets. The people who work at central wholesale markets are the Primary wholesalers, Intermediate wholesalers, Participants in transactions and affiliated businessmen. Wholesaling is carried out by means of Auction, Bidding, Individual transaction and Fixed price transactions. Well organized central wholesale markets, good post harvest facilities, usage of information technology, quick waste disposal and food sanitation law are the unique features of distribution system in Japan. Super markets, convenience stores, departmental stores and cooperatives are playing a vital role in distribution of fisheries products. Efforts are being made to introduce the Japanese distribution strategies of fisheries products in India with few modifications according to the local conditions to secure the stable supply of fish and fisheries products to Indian citizen, because it will be a driving force for socioeconomic development.