Overview of Zespri's Public Inspection Meeting
In March 2025, a delegation from Pal System, a consumer cooperative based in Tokyo, visited Zespri International Limited, a prominent kiwi fruit producer from New Zealand. This visit marked a significant milestone as it was the first public inspection meeting held in collaboration with Zespri, celebrating two decades of partnership since the commencement of their trading relationship in 2005 and the formalization of their direct production alliance in 2012.
A Commitment to Organic Farming Practices
During the visit, representatives from Pal System, including active consumers from Tokyo, Kanagawa, Chiba, and Saitama regions, embarked on a journey to inspect Zespri's farms. The goal was to delve into sustainable farming practices and quality management systems that prioritize food safety and environmental stewardship. Zespri's producers utilize innovative organic farming techniques, emphasizing soil management and harnessing ecological systems, such as earthworms and microorganisms, to cultivate high-quality organic kiwi fruits. Accompanying Japanese producers from allied regions also had the opportunity to learn and share insights on organic farming implementations.
For enhanced engagement, the activities of the public inspection meeting were broadcasted online, allowing a total of 164 participants from Japan to witness the farm tours and audit reports in real-time.
Exploring Zespri's Ideals and Business Strategies
The inspection meeting provided a platform for participants to engage with Zespri's core values and business objectives through presentations that highlighted the company’s brand strategies and environmental goals, all borne from the contributions of its producers. The attendees, having received prior training on production and quality management, conducted audits at various facilities and shared their impressions on the practices they observed.
Among the key points of assessment were:
1. The alignment of Zespri's ideals with its business activities.
2. The operational management and decision-making dynamics within the production areas.
3. Adherence to farming standards and the practical application of these standards.
4. The sustainability pursuits, including aspects of labor safety and product labeling.
5. Overall progress towards sustainable practices within the farming ecosystem.
Executive Director Shibusawa emphasized, “The essence of our direct collaboration goes beyond a simple trading relationship; it's about fostering mutual understanding and trust based on equality, sharing wisdom in good and challenging times. We are confident that our partnership can further evolve, contributing to Zespri’s growth and the sustainability of agricultural practices through the supply of organic kiwis renowned for safety and taste.”
Promoting Organic Kiwi Sales in Japan
As of 2022, only about 5% of kiwi sold in Japan comes from organic farming practices in New Zealand, with Pal System leading the charge in promoting these products. Tracy Armstrong, an organic kiwi representative from Zespri, remarked on the rarity and honor of welcoming consumers to observe their practices. She noted, “The volcanic ash soil of New Zealand is exceptionally suited for crop growth. We appreciate the respectful relationship that has persisted since the visit two decades ago, reflecting our commitment to organic farming’s safety and health benefits.”
Looking Forward
In light of the 2025 International Cooperative Year, Pal System aims to further enhance cooperation between producers and consumers, promoting sustainable production and consumption practices. The organization aspires to expand its impact on organic kiwi sales and strengthen its commitment to environmentally-friendly practices.
For more on Pal System’s initiatives, visit their official website at
Pal System.
Zespri's public inspection meeting marks a fruitful collaboration as the organizations pursue shared goals of sustainability in agriculture, paving the way for the future of organic farming in Japan and beyond.