In a publication released in November 2023, Organic Trade and Investments (OTI)'s CEO; Esthy Ama Asante, was quoted as:
OTI’s initiatives in promoting African black soap in the Chinese market are a testament to the power of sustainable practices, fair trade, and international cooperation. By empowering women-owned manufacturers and introducing a natural, beneficial product to a growing market, the Company is making a significant impact on both the beauty industry and socio-economic development.
Organic Trade and Investments (OTI) is a leading social enterprise that has carved a niche for itself in the global beauty industry. The Company has extensive experience in international trade, exporting to over forty destinations. With a strong commitment to sustainability, fair trade, and competition cooperation strategy, OTI is at the forefront of promoting African black soap in the burgeoning Chinese market.
Central to OTI’s operations is its strategic partnership with women-owned manufacturers who produce semi-finished products for the cosmetic industry including; shea butter, aloe vera gel, and African black soap. This initiative not only provides a platform for the over 300 women-contracted manufacturers to showcase their products on a global stage but also empowers them in business. By creating a symbiotic relationship with these manufacturers, OTI is fostering economic growth and job creation.
The monthly production capacity of our African black soap has seen a significant rise, going from 1,000 bars in 2019 to an impressive 150,000 bars in 2023.
African black soap, a hidden gem from West Africa, is renowned for its numerous health benefits. Composed of natural ingredients such as plantain skins, palm tree leaves, cocoa pod powder, coconut oil, and shea butter, this soap is akin to a nourishing meal for the skin. It is celebrated for its ability to cleanse and hydrate the skin, combat acne, reduce skin inflammation, and even out skin tone. The soap’s natural ingredients make it a healthier alternative to synthetic skincare products, aligning with the global trend towards organic and natural beauty solutions.
A client in the Hunan Province who uses AExtracts 100% Natural African Black Soap shared their experience with OTI:
The soap indeed works wonders on my skin. It’s unquestionably authentic.
The beauty industry in China is witnessing exponential growth, presenting a significant opportunity for African beauty industries and semi-finished raw materials. The market for organic cosmetics in China is growing rapidly.
The revenue in the natural cosmetics segment of the beauty and personal care market in China is projected to continuously increase between 2024 and 2028 by in total of 1.6 billion U.S. dollars (+50.35 percent). By 2028, the market is estimated to reach 4.7 billion U.S. dollars.
As Chinese consumers become increasingly conscious of the ingredients in their skincare products, the demand for natural and organic products is on the rise. African black soap, with its all-natural composition and proven health benefits, is well-positioned to meet this demand.
The global African black soap market is rapidly expanding and is currently growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.82% from 2023 to 2030.
In response to this growing market, OTI has launched a new brand of African Black soap, AExtracts, in partnership with its associates in Shanghai.
Mr. Lanza Chen, the Chief Product Officer of ChanX Group, Shanghai (China) shares his opinion on the new brand:
AExtracts is more than just a soap; it is a celebration of Ghanaian heritage and a testament to the power of international collaboration between China and Ghana. By introducing AExtracts to the Chinese market, OTI is not only promoting Ghanaian heritage but also supporting women in business and creating jobs.
The success of AExtracts serves as a beacon for other African beauty industries, illuminating the path toward global recognition and success.
