Summary
The case of Sumitomo Chemical and the market for Long-Lasting Insecticide Treated Nets (LLINs) shows the challenges and boundaries of strengthening inclusive business ecosystems. The company acts both on a global and a local level to improve LLIN production capacity and uptake. Yet, on a global level, the continuously changing policy environment has made it hard for the company to stay abreast of developments. After rapid scale-up of production in Africa, it is now confronted with dwindling demand. The case raises questions about how companies should best navigate a highly politicized ecosystem.
Citations
Gradl, Christina. "Sumitomo Chemical and the Fight Against Malaria Using Bednets: A Case Study." Research Report No. 54. CSR Initiative at the Harvard Kennedy School, 2013.