At the invitation of the Aid by Trade Foundation, more than 70 experts from across the cashmere production and supply chain gathered in Shanghai, China, for the GCS Unit Meeting to review progress and define new objectives for The Good Cashmere Standard.

The two-day meeting brought together animal welfare specialists, cashmere experts and partner companies to discuss the implementation and verification of the world’s largest standard for sustainable cashmere. Key topics included species-appropriate animal husbandry, further development of the GCS verification system and the growing importance of transparency within the cashmere supply chain.

Participants also exchanged experiences with local stakeholders on the practical implementation of standard requirements at cashmere goat farms. Particular emphasis was placed on seamless traceability of verified cashmere fibres, an issue gaining urgency in light of expected regulatory developments in the EU and the USA.

A highlight of the meeting was a presentation by herdswoman Chaoluomenqiqige, who operates a GCS model farm together with her husband, Zhaonashun. She shared first-hand insights into working with The Good Cashmere Standard and outlined the positive impact the standard has had on her farm, particularly in advancing animal welfare practices.

“It is impressive how much commitment herders put into their everyday work,” said Tina Stridde, Managing Director of the Aid by Trade Foundation. “This makes the model farms important centres of innovation and inspiration for all partners of The Good Cashmere Standard.”

Through the event, the Aid by Trade Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to the continuous development of The Good Cashmere Standard in close cooperation with local actors. The conclusions drawn from the Shanghai meeting will help shape the future evolution of the standard and further promote animal welfare, transparency and sustainability within global cashmere production.

www.thegoodcashmerestandard.org

www.aidbytrade.org