The Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF) hosted the GCS Unit Meeting in Shanghai, bringing together over 70 experts from the cashmere industry and supply chain. The two-day event focused on the implementation and verification of The Good Cashmere Standard (GCS), highlighting best practices in animal welfare and promoting sustainability across global markets.
The conference convened animal welfare specialists, GCS partner companies, and production experts to discuss the future of sustainable cashmere. Key topics included species-appropriate husbandry, expanded GCS verification protocols, and the importance of supply chain transparency. With stricter regulations anticipated in the EU and USA, verified cashmere traceability has become increasingly critical for international trade.
A highlight of the meeting was the presentation by herdswoman Chaoluomenqiqige, who shared insights from her GCS model farm. She emphasized how the standard’s progressive animal welfare practices positively impacted her daily operations. “The dedication of herders to their work is impressive,” noted Tina Stridde, Managing Director of the Aid by Trade Foundation. “Model farms like these serve as hubs of innovation and inspiration for the entire GCS network.”
The GCS Unit Meeting reinforced the foundation’s commitment to continuous improvement, collaboration with local actors, and promotion of responsible cashmere production. Outcomes from the meeting are expected to guide the standard’s further development, enhancing sustainability, transparency, and animal welfare throughout the cashmere supply chain.
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Learn more about The Good Cashmere Standard and its sustainability initiatives at www.goodcashmerestandard.org.