Sour grapes: Japan battles to protect premium fruits


A vendor selling fruits including Shine Muscat grapes at a market in Hong Kong. According to Japan's government, China and South Korea took Shine Muscat seedlings out of Japan and then grafted them onto local vines to produce fruit that looks and tastes -- almost -- as good. - AFP

UEDA, Japan (AFP): The variety of juicy grape that Yuki Nakamura is harvesting as the sun rises over his farm took scientists 33 years to develop and can sell for $100 a bunch in Tokyo department stores.

But in the view of Japanese farmers and officials, the chunky emerald-green Shine Muscat, one of many fruit varieties created by Japan, has been "stolen" by China and South Korea.

The Star Christmas Special Promo: Save 35% OFF Yearly. T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
Japan , Special Grapes , Much Care

Next In Aseanplus News

Philippines November trade deficit at US$3.5bil
China passes revised foreign trade law to bolster trade war capabilities
Year-end clampdown on crime in Singapore sees over 1,700 people investigated, more than 500 arrested
Cambodia's defence budget sees only small increase for 2026
Spanish family missing after tourist boat sinks in Indonesia
With lifespans over 200 years, what is the Bowhead whale's secret to long life?
Cruise ship passenger in need of medical attention airlifted by RSAF to hospital
Communist Party of China delegation visits Laos and Cambodia
MetMalaysia warns of continuous rain in Pahang, Johor, Kelantan, Terengganu until Monday
Cricket-England beat Australia by four wickets in Melbourne for drought-breaking win

Others Also Read