Sunstar's Partnership with Tokushima Prefecture
On July 29, 2025, Sunstar Corporation finalized a significant partnership agreement with Tokushima Prefecture. This collaboration aims to effectively utilize both parties’ resources to contribute to the regional community through joint efforts.
Sunstar, with its motto, "100 years mouth, 100 years health," has a mission to support oral health at the foundation of overall well-being. The company is committed to enhancing the health of individuals as we navigate the era of living to 100 years. In alignment with Sunstar’s initiatives, Tokushima Prefecture is dedicated to promoting health among its residents and raising awareness about healthy behaviors and environmental management. The partnership aims to support health improvement strategies, focusing on oral care practices and disaster preparedness.
Agreement Signing Ceremony
- - Date: July 29, 2025, 11:30 AM
- - Location: Tokushima Prefectural Office, 3rd Floor, 2nd Meeting Room
Areas of Collaboration
The agreement covers several key areas:
1. Promotion of resident health
2. Support during disasters and emergencies
3. Advancement of local industries
4. Environmental preservation efforts
5. Initiatives to promote regional revitalization
During the signing ceremony, President Masamune Gotoda of Tokushima Prefecture expressed gratitude towards Sunstar’s leadership, especially CEO Kousei Shibata, for their commitment towards community contributions and for creating job opportunities in the area since the opening of the Sunstar Tokushima factory in March 1987.
As Japan faces challenges such as rising prices, labor shortages due to an aging population, and the threat of significant natural disasters like the Nankai Trough earthquake, this partnership is particularly crucial. It aims to establish effective oral health strategies for residents not only in everyday life but also for emergency preparedness.
Insights from Leadership
Masamune Gotoda, Governor of Tokushima:
Governor Gotoda emphasized the importance of the partnership, especially in the context of societal challenges posed by economic and demographic shifts. He noted the necessity of securing oral health resources for both daily living and during disasters, reinforcing the commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of Tokushima residents in collaboration with Sunstar.
Kousei Shibata, President of Sunstar Corporation:
Since starting operations at the Tokushima factory, Sunstar has prioritized not only the production of essential oral hygiene products like toothbrushes and dental floss but has also actively engaged in community-oriented activities, including participation in the Awa Odori dance festival for over 30 years. Shibata reiterated Sunstar’s mission to contribute to overall health through improved oral care practices and disaster preparedness.
Summary of Community Initiatives
Tokushima Prefecture:
As part of its comprehensive plan for future development, Tokushima Prefecture is implementing the "Tokushima New Future Creation Comprehensive Plan," aiming to enhance the quality of life through safety, appeal, and transparent governance. By learning from the best practices globally, the prefecture aims to develop a model that promotes sustainable local economic activity.
Sunstar Group:
Sunstar operates in both consumer and industrial sectors, focusing on oral care brands such as G.U.M and Ora2. Their mission extends beyond oral health to encompass overall well-being and environmental considerations. The company continues to advocate for the importance of oral care, especially in disaster situations.
Through this newly forged partnership, Sunstar and Tokushima Prefecture aspire to create a robust framework for community health initiatives that ensure all residents can lead healthier and happier lives.