#Japan #Tokyo #Sustainable Fishing #Palsystem #Fishery Policy

Palsystem's Commitment to Sustainable Fishing Practices

In a significant move towards sustainable fishing practices, Palsystem Federation, headquartered in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has recently announced a revision of its fishery policy for the first time since its establishment in 2009. As the marine environment undergoes changes resulting in declining catches and challenges in securing successors in the fishing industry, Palsystem aims to effectively utilize harvested seafood resources while promoting consumption. This initiative also seeks to foster collaboration with producers to ensure the long-term sustainability and development of fisheries.

A Comprehensive Approach to Resource Utilization

The new policy emphasizes not only collaboration with fishery operators but also aims for optimization throughout the entire process—from production and processing to distribution, consumption, and waste management. This holistic approach seeks to maximize the utilization of seafood products. Furthermore, by sharing and preserving Japan's rich fish-eating culture, Palsystem aims to deepen mutual understanding with fishery professionals, facilitating the realization of sustainable fishing practices.

The original fishery policy was established with the goal of strengthening direct cooperation with fishery producers. At that time, fish species such as Pacific saury and dried squid were abundant and actively utilized to contribute to the promotion of fisheries. However, in recent years, there has been a global surge in demand for seafood and rapid changes in the types of fish being caught. Coupled with the reduction and aging of professionals in the fisheries and processing industries, a reassessment of the policy has become essential to adapt to these evolving circumstances.

A Collaborative Review Process

To facilitate the revision, discussions commenced in 2023, involving fisheries stakeholders through workshops and site visits to deepen understanding and stimulate dialogue surrounding the challenges faced by the sector. This collaborative effort is vital for the future resilience of Japan's fishing industry.

Key Principles of the Revised Fishery Policy

The main tenets of the revised fishery policy are as follows:

1. Environmental Conservation: Palsystem commits to efforts aimed at preserving the environment while sustainably utilizing seafood resources.
2. Rebuilding Japan's Fisheries: The organization pledges to actively engage in initiatives to revive Japan's fishery sector.
3. Food Safety Assurance: Emphasizing the safety of seafood products, Palsystem will pursue stringent safety protocols to protect consumers.
4. Celebrating Japan's Fish-eating Culture: Palsystem values the importance of Japan's longstanding fish-eating traditions and encourages their preservation.

The full text of the revised policy can be accessed here (PDF available).

About Palsystem

Palsystem Living Cooperative Federation, located at 2-2-6 Okubo, Shinjuku, Tokyo, is led by representative Shibuya Akinori. As of March 2025, the group boasts a total business volume of 260.42 billion yen and a membership of 1.762 million individuals across various regional cooperatives, including Palsystem Tokyo, Palsystem Kanagawa, Palsystem Chiba, and others. 2025 marks the International Year of Cooperatives, emphasizing the continued importance of collaboration and sustainable practices for a prosperous future.