A “world-famous” Kent food is so iconic it has been granted special protections in Japan.

Whitstable oysters have long drawn tourists to the county, with the town’s links to the seafood delicacy dating back to Roman times.

Now, the government has agreed special protections with Japan to avoid the delicacy being imitated in the country.

These measures, known as ‘Geographical Indications’, aim to safeguard British food and drink with a distinct local identity.

The oysters are one of 39 newly protected products including Scottish Wild Salmon and Buxton Blue cheese.

Whitstable Oyster Company, which has harvested the delicacy in the town for more than 200 years, says the move will help safeguard the future of the seafood.

“We are delighted that Whitstable oysters have been granted this special protected designation,” a spokesman said.

“Our oysters are world famous and have previously been given Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status elsewhere, which ensures their provenance and quality.

“We continue to export and also enjoy strong domestic demand, both in the town and our restaurants here, but our oysters are also served in establishments up and down the country.

“It is fantastic that Whitstable oysters have such a strong international reputation, which will continue to drive exports, but also bring visitors to the town, and safeguard both employment and the heritage of this iconic product.”

It comes after other food such as Cornish Pasties were given the same status in Japan last year.

Minister for Food Security Daniel Zeichner said: “I’m thrilled to see there’s a taste for authentic British food and drink in Japan.

“We are committed to growing trade opportunities for British producers around the world as part of our Plan for Change, boosting growth and benefiting businesses across the country.

“The UK is home to a feast of flavours from every corner of the British Isles.

“With the new agreement between the UK and Japan, consumers will now be able to chew over their choices with confidence, knowing they’re getting the quality and reputation that British food is known for - it’s the perfect recipe for success.”

Trade Minister Douglas Alexander added: “From Sussex to Armagh we are securing protections for unique British food and drink products, ensuring Japanese consumers can rest assured that they are receiving authentic, high-quality British produce.

“This early Christmas present to British producers will give them confidence when exporting to Japan, helping them sell more, grow their business and ultimately drive economic growth.”

A PGI is an intellectual property right used on products that have qualities or characteristics attributable to a specific geographical origin.

Food, drink and agricultural products with a geographical connection or that are made using traditional methods can be registered and protected as intellectual property.

The Whitstable Oyster company is reportedly one of the oldest businesses in Europe, dating back to the 1400s.

About three to four million are farmed in beds along the town’s beach each year.