The Minister of Economy discussed the development of relations between the two companies with the Chief Executive Officer of the Japanese corporation in Tokyo
The development of relations between LB Bulgaricum and Meiji in new directions, including scientific and technological advancements and the production of new products, was discussed by Minister of Economy and Industry Peter Dilov and Mr Katsunari Matsuda, Chief Executive Officer of Meiji Holdings Co., during a meeting held at the company’s headquarters in Tokyo. The meeting was also attended by Mr Bunjiro Yao, Member of the Board of Meiji and Director for Dairy Products, as well as Her Excellency Mrs Marieta Arabadzhieva, Ambassador of Bulgaria to Japan.
Minister Dilov emphasised that the partnership between the state-owned company under the Ministry of Economy and Industry and Japan’s Meiji is an excellent example of mutual trust and shared values, which contribute to the sustainable development of bilateral economic relations.
Thanks to this cooperation, Bulgarian yoghurt is now recognised by nearly 95% of the Japanese population, and more than 20 million Japanese people start their day with Bulgarian yoghurt, it was noted during the meeting.
It was further highlighted that the over fifty-year partnership with Meiji has made the “Bulgarian yoghurt” brand highly recognisable not only in Japan but also in other Asian countries.
Mr Matsuda expressed his gratitude for the successful cooperation and stated that the further development of relations between the two companies remains a top priority. He noted that Meiji has been producing yoghurt for the Japanese market for more than fifty years under the name “Bulgarian Yoghurt”, thus helping to promote Bulgaria and its products internationally.
The meeting also focused on the strategic partnership and the agreement signed in October 2024 to establish joint research and development activities through the creation of a shared laboratory. The laboratory is expected to open in the first half of 2026, with the primary goal of studying the benefits of traditional Bulgarian yoghurt. “This underlines the key role of Meiji in promoting the Bulgarian product,” the Minister noted.
Mr Yao, for his part, confirmed that the opening of the joint research centre in Bulgaria is of exceptional importance for Meiji.
It was further noted that cooperation with the Japanese company goes beyond the supply of know-how and starter cultures and extends to joint research and development on the health benefits of yoghurt and the creation of innovative production technologies.
Meiji is the largest dairy producer in Japan. Its product portfolio includes fresh milk, yoghurts, ice creams, cheeses, and other dairy products, as well as a wide range of health foods and beverages.