24th January
Hong Kong Leaders Impressed with NZ’s Approach to Growing Organic
Forty-two organic growers, retailers, certification managers and government officials from Hong Kong paid a five day
visit to New Zealand from 15-19 January to investigate the state of organic and approach to growing the sector in New
Zealand.
The tour was led by Jonathan Wong head and Professor, of the Department of Biology at Hong Kong Baptist University and
Director of the Hong Kong Organic Resource Centre and organised and hosted by Brendan Hoare, Managing Director from Buy
Pure New Zealand.
Brendan Hoare says the tour was designed to encompass and profile urban farming, retail, wholesale, inter-generational
business and corporate approaches to growing the organic sector in New Zealand.
“Our company is very conscious that New Zealand has a unique appeal and cultural approach to organic that the world is
interested in. Our job is to showcase our expertise and communicate our style to an interested world and make sure we
‘hit the mark’ by delivering our story in a way that resonates. Our Hong Kong guests loved what they saw, heard, tasted
and felt. ”
All participants were impressed with our emphasis on values and long-term approach to looking after the land, family and
the wider environment. This was always reflected in the physical appearance of the certified organic properties and
business facilities showcased. “They can see an obvious pride and commitment that is more than just quality product, but
a value set that can be measured and demonstrated on the land, in the field. Being certified organic is one thing, but
demonstrating your philosophy to life is another.’ Mr Hoare said.
Hong Kong, with a population of over 7 million and a staggering 60 million tourists has yet to realise the potential of
capturing the market for its certified organic local products.
“The insight was so valuable for us” Professor Wong said. “The Kiwi farmers and business people were so passionate about
what they did that it reflected not only in the quality of product, but their lifestyle and we could not help but feel
slightly envious. If we could capture that enthusiasm and market our own wonderful certified organic products better we
would benefit greatly from this. We all acknowledged this and it gave us a clear plan of action we need to take.’
Professor Wong said.
Professor Wong and Mr Hoare have been collaborating for over 12 years and are looking to further the opportunities
identified during the tour in 2019.
Ends