MESSAGE BY BR.

MICHAEL BROUGHTON FSC

ON THE OCCASION

THE 20TH MEETING OF THE NATIONAL FOCAL POINT

FOR THE ASEAN COCOA CLUB (ACC) ON ASEAN COOPERATION AND
JOINT APPROACHES IN AGRICULTURE AND FOREST PRODUCTS
PROMOTION SCHEME

19 May 2017
De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
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Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, delegates, and members of government, a pleasant

day to you all and welcome to De La Salle University.

As it stands, Southeast Asia is one of the primary sources of cocoa in the world. Our region
accounts for an estimated 14% of the world’s cocoa supply with Indonesia being one of the
leading cocoa producers. Not only we are a major source of cocoa beans, our region is also a
major source for semi-processed cocoa products.

With our region’s favorable climate and other inputs that are conducive to cocoa production,
ASEAN is poised to make even greater strides. However, to sustain these positive developments,
measures, commitment, and resources will be required from member states, industry partners,
and the academe.

Fortunately, the ASEAN way has always been that of consensus and cooperation for the good of
all. Likewise, the ASEAN Cocoa Club was established with the objectives of:
• Strengthening the objective bargaining position of ASEAN on matters affecting
agricultural and forest product trade in the world market
• Expanding the same through downstream processing and higher value-added activity
• Continued quality upgrading of ASEAN agriculture and forest products
• And, more importantly, foster even greater economic ties between ASEAN member
states.
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In recent years, the cocoa industry has experienced dynamic developments with issues
concerning production, global demand, and pricing. While there are indeed challenges, these can
be solved with enhanced intra- and extra-ASEAN trade and adherence to international standards
and guidelines which will result in the greater long-term competitiveness of ASEAN food and
agricultural commodities.

Another equally important measure is the promotion of even greater cooperation, joint
approaches, and technology transfers among ASEAN member countries, international, and
regional organizations, and the private sector.

It is the latter where De La Salle University and members of the academic community are ready
to aid in the development and innovation of current practices and technologies in this industry.
By harnessing academe’s shared knowledge base and research capacity, and with the cooperation
of both government and the private sector, we can ensure the growth of this industry.
In the spirit of ASEAN, I wish all the delegates and representatives fruitful and effective
discussions and may these exchanges bear fruit that will lead to prosperity for all our people.
Once again a warm welcome to all and a pleasant morning.

Thank you all!

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