Cotton and textile sectors issue call for collaborative action

The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), The Committee For International Co-Operation Between Cotton Associations (CICCA), The International Cotton Association (ICA), The International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) and The International Textile Manufacturers Association (ITMF) are unified in promoting a common set of values and shared commitment to safe trading and contract sanctity across the global cotton community. The joint challenge is to ensure that fair and equitable trade practices govern the commercial relationships throughout the cotton and textile supply chains.

The loss of demand resulting from COVID-19 and the preventative measures that are being applied throughout the world affects the cotton and textile sectors. All should strive to find mutual agreements which keep in mind a shared commitment to the long-term health of the international cotton and textile trade, and to the principles of fair and equitable trading practices on which it is built. Those engaged in the cotton and textile value chains should jointly and collaboratively commit to:

• Take actions that are considered and designed to contribute to the recovery of the cotton and textile sectors in 2021 and beyond
• Communicate, collaborate and be responsive to the needs of their counterparties
• Continue to respect the trade rules that govern the sectors
• Recognize and publicize positive behaviors. Identify and call out negative, counter-productive commercial behaviors.

The strong sense of community in the cotton and textile world will continue to be a source of strength.