CHICAGO (May 14, 2025)—The Global FoodBanking Network (GFN) is proud to welcome two new members from Japan to the network: The Alliance of Japan Foodbanks 그리고 General Incorporated National Association for the Promotion of the Food Bank.
Food banking has been present in Japan for more than 20 years and there are currently approximately 300 food banks in the country, most serving their local communities.
그만큼 일본 푸드뱅크 연합 was established and officially recognized by the Cabinet Office in 2013. Today, it comprises ten member food banks and plays a vital role in strengthening food bank operations across the country. The Alliance supports the development of food banks by providing clear operational guidance, food handling protocols, and food safety standards. It has also implemented a robust certification system for member organizations and operates a grants program to fund and scale local food banking efforts.
Established in 2025, 식품은행 진흥을 위한 일반 통합 전국 협회 was founded to expand the reach and impact of food banking in Japan. Working with over 50 food bank members, the Association offers operational support, facilitates the matching of food donations to food banks, raises public awareness, and engages in policy advocacy and research with government partners. A key focus of its work is supporting children from low-income families—particularly during school holidays when access to school meals is limited.
“We are honored to welcome these two food banking networks into The Global FoodBanking Network, where they will bring vital knowledge and experience that can strengthen food banking around the world,” said Lisa Moon, president and CEO of GFN. “What makes this moment especially meaningful is that they are joining GFN together, reflecting their shared commitment to strengthening food banking, reducing food loss and waste, and ensuring everyone in Japan is well nourished.”
GFN staff visited both food banking organizations in early 2025 and was struck by their innovative and diverse operations, which can be valuable for other food banks in the network.
“It is a great honor to be officially welcomed as a member of GFN. I am truly delighted that through our connection, our activities will expand further and our collaboration with the global food banking community will deepen. Our efforts to alleviate food insecurity and strengthen the food bank system in Japan resonate deeply with our mission, and we have high expectations for future cooperation. We are committed to making the most of GFN’s resources and network, sharing knowledge, and exploring innovative solutions together. As a member of the GFN network, we look forward to growing together and carrying out impactful initiatives that contribute to society,” said Issei Harada, Board Chair at the Alliance of Japan Foodbanks.
“We are honored to be a part of the Global FoodBanking Network. Although we work in different countries and regions, I believe that food banks share a common mission. We will learn from GFN and the food banks that are members of the network and we will work to reduce food insecurity in Japan and build a food bank ecosystem. I look forward to working with food banks around the world in network,” said Hiroaki Yoneyama, Board Chair of The General Incorporated National Association for the Promotion of Food Bank.
GFN looks forward to these two food banking networks joining both in-person and virtual knowledge exchange sessions with food banks in Asia and beyond.
글로벌 푸드뱅킹 네트워크 소개
Food banking offers a solution to both chronic hunger and the climate crisis. GFN supports partners in more than 50 countries to redirect surplus, healthy food to those who need it. In 2022, our network provided food to more than 32 million people. We help the food system function as it should: nourishing people and the planet together. Learn more at foodbanking.org.
