Since the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) came into effect in 2019, a sweet partnership has flourished between Klingele Chocolade and Japan. Belgian chocolates have always been a hit with the Japanese, but the agreement has given our exports an extra boost by lowering tariff rates on chocolate products. Enter Klingele, ready to meet the demand!
Quality above all
The Japanese are known for their exacting standards, and Klingele Chocolade has proven more than capable of meeting them. “There are many steps to take before you meet their quality standards. However, once you manage to export to Japan, you can export to any other country because their system is so well-regulated, and the quality standards are second to none,” says Eline Blanchaert, Sales Director at Klingele Chocolade.
Klingele began exporting to Japan in 2007, and over the years, it’s become clear that they’re a perfect match. Today, Japan accounts for 10% of Klingele’s total sales, making it the company’s most important market outside Belgium.
Good agreements make good friends
Thanks to the EPA, Klingele was able to strengthen its presence in Japan: “The agreement has made trade between the EU and Japan easier and cheaper for both sides, and we have been able to take advantage of that,” Blanchaert explains.
As Japan’s love affair with Belgian chocolate continues to grow, Klingele remains committed to meeting this sweet tooth with the same passion and dedication that marked its humble beginnings. The company’s journey from a small kitchen in Ghent to the shelves of high-end stores in Japan is a testament to the enduring appeal of quality, tradition, and innovation.
Nature and nurture
Since 1995, Klingele has been making chocolate with a simple philosophy: respect for nature and human health. The company offers two distinct brands — one focusing on low-sugar chocolate, the other on organic and fair-trade products. Staying true to this philosophy, they have recently opened a new production facility dedicated to making bars. Whether it’s fruit, high-protein, sports or functional bars, nuts or cereals — Klingele has you covered!