Japanese Food Festival at Embassy of Japan Highlights Culinary Diplomacy at World Food India 2025

New Delhi, September 26, 2025 – The Embassy of Japan in India came alive last evening as Ambassador ONO hosted a special reception to mark the Japanese Food Festival. The event was part of Japan’s participation as a Focus Country at World Food India 2025, underscoring the deepening partnership between India and Japan in food, innovation, and culture.

Japan as a Focus Country at World Food India 2025

Japan’s role as a Focus Country at World Food India 2025 is a testament to its global leadership in food processing, packaging, sustainability, and innovation. With its reputation for precision and quality, Japan is showcasing advanced food technologies and sustainable practices that align with India’s ambitions for food security and agri-business growth.

A Cultural and Culinary Bridge

The evening’s highlight, the Japanese Food Festival, celebrated the harmony of tradition and modernity. Guests experienced how Japanese cuisine in India is not only about flavors but also about philosophy – respect for ingredients, balance, and innovation.

The festival served as a cultural bridge, bringing together India and Japan through gastronomy.

India–Japan Food Cooperation & Regulatory Partnerships

The presence of Rajit Punhani, CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), underscored the commitment to India–Japan food cooperation in the critical areas of food safety and regulatory alignment. This cooperation is expected to enhance confidence for Japanese businesses entering India’s expanding food market.

Chef Murata Brings Authentic Japanese Cuisine to India

Adding to the authenticity of the festival was Chef Murata of the world-renowned restaurant Kikunoi, who prepared traditional Japanese dishes for Indian chefs and guests. His culinary mastery showcased the essence of Japanese gastronomy, while fostering a rich exchange of culinary practices between Indian and Japanese professionals.

Building Stronger Agri-Food Ties

The reception highlighted how India–Japan agri-food ties are strengthening in response to shared global challenges. From sustainable food processing to culinary diplomacy, the partnership reflects a mutual commitment to innovation and global food security. The festival also demonstrated how collaborations in the food sector contribute to people-to-people connect, an essential pillar of bilateral relations.

Japan Month 2025: Strengthening Bilateral Food Ties

The Japanese Food Festival was a central feature of Japan Month 2025, which brings a series of Embassy of Japan events spotlighting culture, innovation, and cooperation. By celebrating food as both a cultural art and an industry of the future, the festival reaffirmed that India–Japan food cooperation is not only about business but also about building enduring ties between people.

As the world grapples with the need for sustainable solutions, the Japan Food Festival at the Embassy of Japan offered a glimpse of how bilateral collaboration can enrich the global food dialogue while deepening friendship between India and Japan.