Japanese ICMIF member Zenkyoren (National Mutual Insurance Federation of Agricultural Cooperatives) has announced a major investment of JPY 20 billion in the Orchard 2025 Fund, a recently-launched public debt impact fund managed by BlueOrchard Finance Ltd., a Schroders Group company focused on impact investing.
Zenkyoren says the investment aligns with its long-standing commitment to supporting sustainable agriculture, resilient rural communities, and responsible investment practices. With its core mission focused on building secure and prosperous local communities, Zenkyoren views this fund as a practical step toward addressing climate change and other global social challenges that affect its members.
“In terms of fund management, we are committed to responsible investment that contributes to solving social issues both domestically and internationally, while focusing on ensuring stable profits,” Zenkyoren stated. “We are placing a strong focus on addressing climate change, which has a significant impact on our core businesses—agriculture and mutual insurance—and this investment is part of that initiative.”
The Orchard 2025 Fund invests in bonds issued by companies, governments, and international organisations that meet strict environmental and social criteria. The fund is classified under Article 9 of the EU’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), indicating a primary objective of sustainable investment. It targets projects that help transition to a low-carbon economy, enhance financial inclusion, and improve access to vital services in underserved regions – supporting multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Zenkyoren’s group company, Norinchukin Zenkyoren Asset Management Co., Ltd., is playing a key role as the investment advisor to the fund. Its responsibilities include credit analysis, portfolio monitoring, and investment advisory services.
Through this initiative, Zenkyoren says it is reinforcing its dedication to the sustainable development of agriculture and rural society in Japan, fulfilling its broader social role as a cooperative rooted in the community.
