CJ CheilJedang, a South Korean food company, is making a significant move in Japan's competitive dumpling market. The company has invested approximately USD 72 million (100 billion KRW) to build its fifth dumpling factory in Kisarazu, Chiba Prefecture. This initiative, covering an area of 42,000 square meters (about six football fields), is set to begin production in September 2025.
It will manufacture Bibigo brand frozen dumplings, such as popular gyoza products and new easy-to-cook varieties designed for Japanese consumers.
The expansion aims to promote CJ CheilJedang's presence in Japan's frozen dumpling market, valued at approximately 1.1 trillion KRW (USD 794 million), which is experiencing growth due to the resurgence of Korean cultural influence in the country.
As demand for Bibigo dumplings has escalated in Japan, CJ Cheiljedang Corp determined that conditions for local production will now be favorable. In the first half of this year, Bibigo dumpling sales in Japan surged 28% compared to the same period last year. Overall food business sales in Japan also rose approximately 27% during the same period.
With this initiative, the company plans to accelerate its localization strategy with more efficient procurement of raw materials and product supply, aiming to expand its business in Japan.
Itochu Corporation is one of Japan’s top five general trading companies, possesses a nationwide distribution network in Japan and owns several famous brands, including Nihon Access, Japan’s largest food distributor, and FamilyMart, a major convenience store chain.
Executive Statement
According to CJ CheilJedang Vice Chairman Kang Shin-ho and Food Business Division CEO Gregory Yep, the Chiba factory is an important step for our leap and sustainable growth in the Japanese business. Through continuous challenge and innovation, they will further accelerate the expansion of fast Food territory in the global market.
