Farmers, businesses tap into Japan’s nascent olive industry

Six years ago, persimmon farmer Mitsuhiko Fujita made up his mind to try something different – he decided to plant olive trees. Ukiha is renowned for its persimmons, so it was a big decision for Fujita. But it was a gamble that has really paid off. Today, there are 50 farmers in the city cultivating olives, including the 67-year-old Fujita. The city government is also encouraging the cultivation of olives by offering subsidies.