Report on 4th DFP TALK

“Social trading company -aiming at both business and social sustainability of cacao producers in Africa”

On April 13 2016, we organized the fourth “Connect to the world! DFP TALK”. The guest speaker was Mr. Wataru Ikuta, Director of Tachibana & Co., Ltd. Under the theme of “Social trading company  aiming at both business and social sustainability of cacao producers in Africa”, his talk covered various topics: background of cacao business, struggle of walk-in sales with a large stock of chocolates made in Ghana, African business culture of prioritizing advance payment in cash than high profit, and the business strategy in both domestic and international markets.

Mr. Wataru Ikuta

He explained how important it is to establish a sustainable relationship with the producers by purchasing not only high quality cacaos but also low quality ones at their respective fair prices. Oil extracted from low quality ones can be used for cosmetic products and medicines, while high quality ones are used for confectionery.

He defined that “social trading is to create an environment that enables a long-term income source for producers in ordinary transactions”. He wanted to develop business by having business partners who appreciate working with him rather than expanding profits through transactions. His talk brought us many tips useful for future DFP’s activities.

Thank you very much Wataru and all the participants!