The value of Japan's exports of agricultural, forestry and fishery products last year reached a record high owing to the weak yen and recovering demand in the global restaurant industry.

The agriculture ministry said the exports rose 14.3 percent from the previous year to over 1.41 trillion yen, or about 11 billion dollars.

The value of exports has increased for 10 consecutive years. The figure in 2022 was about 3.1 times that in 2012.

Demand for Japanese products increased last year due to improved price competitiveness following the drop in the yen. The exports expanded also because restaurant businesses in Western countries and China rebounded from the slump during the coronavirus pandemic.

By product, sales of scallops rose by 42.4 percent, alcoholic drinks by 21.4 percent, and sauces and other seasonings by 11.2 percent.

The government's aim has been to raise the value of exports to 2 trillion yen, or around 15.6 billion dollars, a year in the category by 2025. It now says it wants to reach that target earlier.

Japan plans to strengthen its agricultural capabilities by supporting producers of 30 items it is focusing on. They include nishikigoi carp, popular ornamental fish traded at high prices overseas.