Field Survey in Mongolia
1. The Motivation Behind Establishing This Collaborative Project
SetsuroTech Inc. is a startup launched from Tokushima University in 2017 to industrialize biotechnology developed by former university professors Dr. Tatsuya Takemoto and Dr. Shun Sawatsubashi. Since 2019, SetsuroTech has been working on “precision breeding,” a new technology that enables direct chemical editing of genes for breed improvement, moving beyond traditional statistical breeding methods that cross superior males and females.
Responding to a client’s request to help prevent desertification in Mongolia by improving the breed of cashmere goats using this technology, SetsuroTech began collaborative research with Nagoya University and others. After filing a patent application and establishing the precision breeding technology, the project in Mongolia was set to begin in earnest. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the client’s management policy changed, and they withdrew from the project.
Believing in the value of this project, SetsuroTech decided to continue cashmere goat development as an in-house research initiative. Later, a capital and business partnership was formed with SUMITOMO CORPORATION, and the project continues to progress.
2. Overview of the Collaborative Project
Mongolia produces about half of the world’s cashmere, with the number of cashmere goats reaching nearly 25 million in recent years. However, goats are known for their tendency to graze grass down to the roots, which contributes to desertification—a major issue highlighted in Mongolia’s national strategy “VISION2050.”
Through precision breeding, we aim to improve the breed of cashmere goats to increase the value of cashmere produced per animal. While Mongolian cashmere typically has a fiber diameter of 15–18 μm, the ultra-fine “baby cashmere” (13–14 μm) commands prices several times higher. Using precision breeding, we are working to develop goats capable of producing finer fibers.
As precision breeding of goats takes time to become profitable, we are also exploring the commercialization of a “genetic testing service” related to the breeding process for short-term business opportunities. The breeding industry utilizes “marker-assisted selection,” which uses genetic markers for selection, and we are considering offering this service for Mongolian goats.
Additionally, we are seeking local investors who share our vision and are willing to support the development of cashmere goats in Mongolia.
Cashmere Goats in Mongolia
3. Introduction of Co-Creation Partner
Our co-creation partner, Sumitomo Corporation, is a global trading company with 127 offices in 63 countries. Its Agri-Innovation Unit promotes sustainable development and technological innovation in agriculture and livestock, working to build next-generation food production systems.
Recognizing the potential of precision breeding, Sumitomo Corporation entered into a capital and business partnership with SetsuroTech in November 2022. The company is now developing projects in various fields such as livestock (chickens, pigs) and microorganisms (yeast, enzymes) using precision breeding. This project has also been supported since last year, with members from Sumitomo’s Ulaanbaatar office joining efforts to coordinate and negotiate with local industry, government, and academia partners.
4. Message to the Public and Call for Collaboration
SetsuroTech applies precision breeding technology to various organisms, aiming to produce high-value, highly productive agricultural, livestock, food, and chemical products. If you have needs for new product development or production enhancements, we may be able to provide solutions utilizing precision breeding. Please feel free to discuss with us to explore new possibilities for solving your challenges.
Cashmere Goat Herd in Mongolia