Corporate Governance and Board Diversity - The Company aims to achieve at least 8% (1 member) female representation on the Board by December 31, 2024[8]. - At least 55% of the Board members shall be non-executive Directors or independent non-executive Directors[6]. - The Board will consider setting measurable objectives to implement the Board Diversity Policy and review such objectives periodically[6]. - The Board aims to improve diversity goals and identify suitable female professionals for appointment based on merit by the end of 2024[6]. - The Board has adopted a diversity policy to ensure a balanced perspective relevant to the Company's business growth[6]. - The Group's non-executive directors are appointed for a specific term of three years, subject to renewal after the current term expires[35]. Risk Management and Internal Controls - The Audit Committee assists the Board in overseeing the management of existing or potential risks in the Company[19]. - The Company has implemented a risk management mechanism and internal control system to manage risks effectively[21]. - The Group's risk management and internal control systems are considered adequate and effective, with annual reviews to optimize their effectiveness[54]. Financial Performance - The company's revenue for the year ended December 31, 2023, was approximately US451 million in 2022[64]. - Gross profit for the year was approximately US7 million, a significant improvement from a net loss of US$4.38 million in the previous year, resulting in a net profit margin of 1.8%[76]. - The Group experienced a revenue decline of approximately 16.7% year-on-year due to weak economic conditions in Vietnam, Japan, and the PRC, along with declining demand and competition[83]. - Revenue from starch products and starch sugar products decreased by about 10.8% compared to the previous year, primarily due to decreasing demand and major customers reducing their inventories[83]. - Specialty chemicals revenue dropped significantly by 25.3% as a result of declining market demand in Vietnam and increased competition from international price drops[83]. - The Group's performance in the U.S. market saw a substantial decline of about 32.5%, particularly affecting starch sugar products due to economic uncertainties[83]. - The company proposed a final dividend of 0.2298 US cents per share, with total dividends paid and proposed per share amounting to 0.4588 US cents[64]. Market and Product Development - The Group plans to enhance operational flexibility and agility while actively pursuing new operations through strategic alliances focused on new products and business areas[40]. - The Group is focusing on developing new product specifications and high value-added products, particularly in modified starch, which has shown steady growth in markets like the U.S., Europe, and Vietnam[83]. - The Group is committed to diversifying its product offerings and developing new products with higher added value to capture market potential[83]. - The Group's strategic partnerships with internationally renowned brands in the consumer goods industry aim to increase the number of product items operated in Vietnam[83]. - Future growth strategies include market expansion and potential mergers and acquisitions to strengthen market position[106]. Environmental Sustainability - The company is committed to sustainable operations and environmental protection through rigorous governance and risk management practices[157]. - The Vietnam plant obtained the Environmental Protection Permit in 2023 and complied with local environmental regulations[161]. - In 2023, the total volume of wastewater discharged per ton of product output decreased by 22.40% to 4.42 m³/ton from 5.70 m³/ton in 2022[165]. - The total greenhouse gas emissions were reduced by 52.88%, from 1,477,348 tons CO2e in 2022 to 696,189 tons CO2e in 2023[165]. - The total emission intensity of greenhouse gas decreased by 48.07%, from 2.66 tons CO2e/ton in 2022 to 1.38 tons CO2e/ton in 2023[165]. - The total non-hazardous waste decreased by 36.51%, from 70,818,192 kg in 2022 to 44,963,550 kg in 2023[165]. - The Group's wastewater treatment systems are being improved to achieve better pollution prevention and ensure zero pollution discharge[184]. - The Group's resource usage management in 2023 focused on promoting energy conservation and recycling, with a commitment to sustainable operations[188]. Shareholder Communication - The company emphasizes ongoing communication with shareholders through various channels to ensure transparency and engagement[120]. - The company has implemented a Shareholders' Communication Policy to enhance effective communication with shareholders and stakeholders[145]. - The annual general meeting serves as a primary forum for communication between the company and its shareholders, providing necessary information for informed decision-making[153].
味丹国际(02317) - 2023 - 年度财报