#Sustainability #Japan #Tokyo #Meiji #Cocoa Farming

Meiji's Cocoa Support Initiative

In a significant effort to tackle social challenges in cocoa-producing countries, Meiji Co., Ltd. has launched its third Cocoa Support Fund, which provides vital aid to Ghana, Brazil, and Venezuela. This initiative is particularly special as it marks the first donation to Ghana, featuring a total of 10,650 cocoa seedlings and 30 chairs donated across these three nations.

What is the Cocoa Support Fund?

The Cocoa Support Fund is a corporate social responsibility project that encourages employees to confront social issues in cocoa-producing areas and participate in their resolution through financial contributions. By cultivating awareness of problems such as child labor and deforestation, employees can help promote sustainable cocoa production, aligned with Meiji’s commitment to ethical practices in its chocolate business.

The Third Round of Contributions

Tailored to meet the specific needs of each region, the funding went towards agroforestry initiatives, essential cocoa saplings, and community chairs.

• - Donation Campaign Period: December 2 - December 27, 2024
• - Participating Companies: Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd., Meiji Co., Ltd.
• - Funding Achievements: 686 participants contributed a total of 1,228,000 yen.

Details of Donations:

1. Ghana (July 2025): Donation of 1,150 agroforestry seedlings and 30 chairs. These seedlings will provide shade for cocoa plants, facilitating their growth. The donated chairs are intended for community meetings, managed by local VSLA groups to generate income through rentals.

2. Brazil (February-March 2026): A donation of 1,400 carefully selected cocoa seedlings (totaling 4,540 to date). These seedlings are bred from high-yield, disease-resistant varieties, ensuring better productivity.

3. Venezuela (April 2026): Delivery of 8,100 cocoa seedlings grown from seeds (bringing the total to 21,400). This initiative aims to improve local production capabilities.

Through these efforts, Meiji is dedicated to improving the conditions surrounding cocoa farm production and the livelihoods of farmers, thus contributing to sustainable cocoa cultivation.

Unique Support for Cocoa Farmers

Since 2006, Meiji has been actively involved in its Cocoa Farmer Support project, which addresses various challenges facing cocoa-producing areas worldwide, including deforestation, child labor, and insufficient agricultural education. The company's strategy involves sending employees to immerse themselves in the realities of local farms, offering support to enhance productivity and livelihoods.

Program Highlights:

• - Workshops on agricultural practices and pest management
• - Establishment of seedling centers for farmers
• - Technical guidance on cocoa fermentation methods
• - Infrastructure support, including well maintenance and the donation of educational materials for schools

Meiji believes that these cumulative efforts will lead to the realization of sustainable cocoa farming practices. For further details about these support activities, please visit their official page: Cocoa Farmer Support Activity Details.

By addressing these pressing issues, Meiji Co., Ltd. stands committed to spearheading positive change within cocoa-producing regions, enabling a brighter future for these communities while ensuring quality cocoa production for its beloved chocolate products.