Due Diligence in Cotton Supply Chains Is a Real Challenge

Due Diligence in Cotton Supply Chains Is a Real Challenge
The Farming Link In the modern economy, some large manufacturers might be working with thousands or even tens of thousands of first tier suppliers. At the second and third tiers, the numbers grow phenomenally. Suppliers (up and down the chain) also change often for various reasons. Solidaridad Network

Cotton cultivation takes place in a rural context and the agricultural sector is quite remote from the realities of the fashion industry and on which brands often feel that they have limited influence. The cotton value chain is a long and complex one. How can one ensure that due diligence regulations will not inadvertently exclude smallholder cotton farmers from global value chains? The first in a series.