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The Japanese government plans to significantly raise the salaries of chefs working at their embassies and diplomatic missions around the world. This decision was made in connection with the growing popularity of Japanese cuisine abroad, TASS reports with reference to Kyodo.
Starting in January next year, the annual salary of chefs will increase to 6 million yen (approximately $41,000) compared to the current 4-4.5 million yen (from $27,300 to $30,000). In addition to the salary increase, chefs will be given the opportunity to live outside the embassies in rented apartments, the costs of which will also be covered by the government.
Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya emphasized that improving working conditions for chefs is part of a strategy to actively promote Japanese cuisine in the international arena. He noted that chefs, acting as “culinary diplomats,” will play a key role in this process.
Each of Japan's roughly 230 diplomatic missions will have its own chef, with two in particularly busy locations. The Japanese Foreign Ministry will also cover the cost of moving and settling the chefs' families.