Annual Report 2023

Our Annual Report offers an important opportunity to reflect on the impact we made in 2023, examine challenges and success in the field and on the market successes as well as stakeholder insights into various topics about sustainability in the cotton and cashmere industry. Above that, we share key financial information how the income we generate through market activities are spent to make a valuable and measurable impact for nature protection, producers’ and animals’ welfare.

BIODIVERSITY IN CmiA
FARMING COMMUNITIES

How much of an impact is climate change having on Africa’s biodiversity? How is it damaging agriculture? To answer these questions, Cotton made in Africa (CmiA), the internationally recognised standard for sustainably produced cotton, worked together with the Zambia Agriculture Research Institute to survey the people whose very existence is under threat by climate change: cotton farmers in Zambia. Beyond observing how the consequences of climate change threaten their work and lives, the survey shows that they also know that there are ways to counteract these consequences effectively.

Aggregated Verification & Implementation Report 2023

Study Shows Cotton made in Africa Boosting Gender Justice

Women play a decisive role in achieving social and economic improvements for entire communities, including those involved in cotton production. Nonetheless, female farmers continue to face systemic disadvantages. CmiA is pursuing gender justice to redress this imbalance, and the results of a recent study reveal significant progress in this regard.

A New Look for the Aid by Trade Foundation

With a fresh look, a broader portfolio, and clear values, the Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF) has a new public face. Founded in 2005 by the entrepreneur, philanthropist, and benefactor Dr Michael Otto, the non-profit organisation has now updated its colour scheme and logo to reflect the recent expansion of its portfolio to include the Regenerative Cotton Standard (RCS).

Our CmiA Community Projects

At the heart of our work are the people of the cotton-producing countries in Africa and the environment we are active in. To work with our partners to support sustainable development beyond sustainable cotton cultivation, we launched the CmiA Community Cooperation Programme back in 2015.

Education is not a privilege. It is a human right.

In 2022, together with Highlands Cotton Trading, we refurbished and expanded the Mkhota Community School in Zambia. Over 500 students learn here how to read and write.

We Care About:
Protecting Children

Beyond sustainable cotton production, Cotton made in Africa actively advocates for respect for the children’s rights. The elimination of child labour will require sustainable economic growth to support measures towards social progress & better education.