CITI and SIMA launch workshops to enhance Indian textile suppliers' understanding of HRDD and chemical compliances, aligning with EU directives and global standards.
Coimbatore: The Confederation of Indian Textile Industry (CITI) has partnered with the Fair Wear Foundation and SIMA to conduct cluster-level capacity building workshops aimed at better understanding and engaging Indian textile suppliers on human rights due diligence (HRDD) and chemical compliances. This initiative is part of a one-year program formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to prepare Indian textile exporters for the upcoming EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), enacted in May 2024.
The CSDDD mandates European companies to implement comprehensive human rights and environmental due diligence across global supply chains, aiming to unify reporting through a single legal framework within the EU. This directive presents an opportunity for Indian manufacturers to adopt HRDD practices, enhancing their negotiation leverage and understanding of risks and opportunities.
"The CSDDD is a transformative development for the Indian textile and apparel sector," stated T Rajkumar, Immediate Past Chairman of CITI. "By embracing this directive, our industry can meet global standards, leverage shared responsibilities with brands, engage meaningfully with stakeholders, and address power imbalances."
On 26th July 2024, CITI, in collaboration with the Fair Wear Foundation and SIMA, hosted a Capacity Building Workshop titled "Sustainable Practices: Navigating Social and Environmental Compliances" in Coimbatore. The workshop featured insights from Fair Wear Foundation and the Regulatory Representatives & Managers Association (RRMA), highlighting the importance of chemical compliance in the textile value chain.
Participants were educated on the implications of the CSDDD for brands, due diligence obligations, environmental responsibilities, and the climate change combat plan stipulated by the directive. Key sessions included discussions on brand obligations, monitoring and sanctions by authorities, business partner responsibilities, and integrating due diligence into company policies.
RRMA covered the global regulatory landscape for chemical management, emphasizing compliance to protect environmental and human health. The workshop discussed specific regulations, responsible authorities, compliance obligations, circular economy principles, and sustainable chemical management practices. Insights were provided on regulatory standards, hazardous chemicals categorization, sustainability certificates, and the significance of certifications like OEKO-TEX®️, ZDHC, GOTS, Blue Sign, Cradle to Cradle, and Eco Label in promoting environmentally friendly practices in the textile industry.
During his Welcome Address, SIMA Chairman, Dr. S.K. Sundararaman, mentioned that regulatory changes are opportunities to improve the power balance between suppliers and brands and demonstrate leadership in sustainability and ethical business practices. To support mills in complying with social and environmental mandates, SIMA has formed a “Sustainability Cell” to provide periodic advice from experts in this domain. SIMA is also helping members comply with the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act by engaging with Internal Committees as an “External Member.”
SIMA has introduced a Code of Conduct titled “Recruitment Guidelines and Code of Discipline for Women Employment in Textile Industry,” ensuring compliance with labor laws. Additionally, SIMA has partnered with M/s. TUV Rheinland and BSI for compliance audits and developed version 2.
0 of the Code of Conduct to meet buyer standards, covering statutory compliance, health, safety, and environmental standards, recruitment guidelines, and codes of conduct for the employment of women, migrant workers, and contract labor in the textile industry.