Saga Prefecture’s nori industry regained Japan’s top ranking in both sales volume and sales value for the first time in four years during the 2025 season. Producers in the Ariake Sea region introduced several countermeasures after poor harvests caused by red tides and nutrient shortages linked to climate change. Efforts included releasing shellfish to reduce plankton growth, seabed cultivation to improve marine conditions, and delaying seaweed seeding until seawater temperatures dropped below 23 degrees Celsius. Although low rainfall kept nutrient levels down, fewer red tide outbreaks helped improve harvest quality. Average auction prices reached record highs, and total sales exceeded annual targets before the final bidding session. Source: Nikkei / Saga Shimbun
Photo: Saga Prefecture fishery cooperative federation
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