Better Cotton, the global cotton sustainability initiative, is reinforcing its efforts in Uzbekistan by adding stronger due diligence measures and promoting decent work standards.

The programme has increased the oversight of licensed cotton clusters in Uzbekistan by involving independent civil society organisations and third‑party auditors, along with a more rigorous due diligence process.

Katerina Gorbunova, head of the Better Cotton Uzbekistan programme, said that in partnership with Germany’s GIZ, they have enhanced the programme’s framework and services to drive change across the country’s cotton industry.

The updated approach includes detailed interviews and surveys with both cluster managers and workers to gather comprehensive insights. It also examines each cluster’s financial health, ethical conduct, and governance to give a fuller picture of their risks and performance, guiding targeted support.

Now a full certification scheme, Better Cotton conducts preliminary assessments of new clusters before the growing season to check their readiness. “With strong collaboration, transparent processes, and persistence, Uzbekistan can lead in sustainable cotton production,” Gorbunova added.