Eel inspection was held on July 18 at Narita Airport, east of Tokyo, as eel imports to Japan approach their peak period. 

The peak usually comes before Midsummer Day of the Ox, which falls on July 24 this year, when people in Japan often treat themselves to eel dishes to try to beat the heat. 

Customs officials conducted clearance procedures for eels imported from Taiwan. 

Eel Importer/ With a shortage of juvenile eels, eel producers have raised the eels carefully. Compared to previous years with larger quantities, we expect higher quality eel. 

While July sees the highest amount of eel imports, they are around 30% more expensive than previous years due to the weak yen and poor catch of juvenile eels this year.