Uzbekistan and BCI Agree to Expand Sustainable Textile Practices

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Tanzila Narbayeva, Chairperson of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis, held a meeting with a delegation from the international organization Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), led by Yannis Bellinshausen.

Opening the discussions, Narbayeva highlighted Uzbekistan’s strong appreciation for cooperation with BCI, particularly the organization’s support in promoting sustainable agriculture, advancing decent work principles, and strengthening transparency in cotton and textile supply chains.

It was emphasized that the cotton-textile sector remains one of Uzbekistan’s leading industries, which has undergone significant transformation in recent years due to large-scale reforms.

Today, the export geography of Uzbek cotton has expanded significantly, with cotton-textile products delivered to more than 80 countries worldwide.

For further export growth, attracting investment, and engaging major international brands, it is crucial to implement modern standards based on principles of decent work, environmental sustainability, and international technical requirements.

During the meeting, the parties discussed expanding the application of BCI standards in Uzbekistan.

An agreement was reached to explore adopting these standards as national standards, training and certifying national auditors, and implementing a joint project to reduce certification costs for small and medium enterprises and shorten verification timelines for obtaining certificates.

Special attention was given to prospective cooperation areas, including increasing Uzbekistan’s participation in international sustainable textile exhibitions and forums, strengthening engagement with global brands, and organizing specialized international events in Uzbekistan.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the Uzbek side expressed readiness to support and further develop these joint initiatives in the future.