ICAC: Cotton review, traceability concerns

The latest edition of ICAC’s ‘Cotton: Review of the World Situation’ focuses on a critical topic: traceability legislation. While seemingly innocuous, these policies could significantly impact the entire cotton industry, and potentially all natural fibers.

While essential for ensuring the legitimacy of sustainability claims, poorly crafted legislation could disadvantage natural fibbers like cotton. The Review highlights the dangers of uneven playing fields, where different standards are applied to natural and synthetic fibbers.

This free 35-page issue explores the issue through various lenses, including perspectives from key players in the cotton value chain: producers, merchants, manufacturers, and retailers.

Additional insights come from experts like the International Wool Textile Organization's Secretary General and the American Apparel & Footwear Association's Senior Vice President.

The Review delves into the complexities of traceability legislation, urging for balanced regulations that ensure transparency and sustainability across the entire textile industry, not just for cotton.