Asian maple syrup market growing

Led by Japan and South Korea, maple syrup is gaining popularity with Asians, figures suggest.

Research from StatLedger shows that 8-10% of maple syrup exports from Canada go to the Asia-Pacific region, and that growth in Japan and South Korea is topping 7% year on year.

Speaking to the Channel News Asia media platform, the Federation of Quebec Maple Syrup Producers’ promotion and market development director, David Marino, explained that the organisation is striking up new partnerships in order to promote the ‘liquid gold’ in the Far East.

“It’s important for us to find a fit with the Japanese culture, and who better than a Japanese chef to tell us how to use maple syrup? We do partnerships with local chefs and different things to make sure that maple is included, in the right way, in Japanese culture.”

The same report highlighted the surging recent demand for maple syrup, which has led to Canada releasing higher quantities from its reserve stock.

Asia residents seeking a locally produced alternative to organic Canadian maple syrup may like to try palm syrup, which is the boiled sap of palm trees that is sold in tins and bottles in the region.

The syrup – which can also be solidified and sold in cakes or bricks – is widely enjoyed in Malaysia and Indonesia and is an ingredient in a diverse list of recipes; from a filling for glutinous rice balls to jelly made with coconut milk, and sweet potato doughnuts.