Japanese M&A trend strengthens with Mitsubishi’s acquisition of Grieg salmon farms

Mitsubishi Corporation recently made a significant move in the aquaculture industry by acquiring Grieg Seafood’s salmon farming assets in Canada and northern Norway for a substantial $1 billion. This deal is part of a growing trend of Japanese companies investing heavily in Europe and North America, as reported by the Financial Times. Japanese firms have been actively engaging in mergers and acquisitions, with 2,500 deals valued at a record-breaking JPY 20.9 trillion ($140 billion) recorded in the first half of 2025, surpassing the total value of deals made in the previous year.

More than half of these deals involve Japanese companies acquiring foreign businesses, signaling a strong interest in expanding their global presence. One M&A lawyer noted that Japanese clients are eager to invest in businesses in America and Europe. These acquisitions are driven by Japanese food conglomerates and restaurant chains looking to strengthen their international supply chains and expand their market reach in response to shrinking domestic markets.

Marubeni, a major player in the Japanese food industry, has been actively acquiring foreign companies, with investments in land-based aquaculture and the purchase of an Arizona-based mochi ice cream company in the US. The conglomerate reportedly has additional acquisitions lined up for the coming years. These strategic moves showcase the growing influence of Japanese companies in the global aquaculture market and their commitment to securing their position in the industry.

The aquaculture sector has seen a surge in investment and activity, with companies exploring new opportunities for growth and expansion. Mitsubishi’s investment in Grieg Seafood highlights the company’s focus on seafood production and its commitment to increasing profitability in the industry. By expanding its operations in Canada and Norway, Mitsubishi aims to capitalize on the growing demand for high-quality seafood products in international markets.

The rise in M&A activity among Japanese companies reflects a broader trend of increased investment in the aquaculture sector. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and responsible practices, these companies are positioning themselves for long-term success in the global seafood market. As competition intensifies and consumer preferences evolve, strategic investments like the one made by Mitsubishi in Grieg Seafood will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the aquaculture industry.