Amfori unveils new plan to reduce supply chain audit repetition

Amfori, a global risk management facilitator, on Wednesday presented its new action plan aimed at reducing the repetition of audits in the supply chain and the resulting financial burden. John Stellansson, Amfori's head of business development and network, disclosed the new plan when he met with the acting president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) Enamul Haque Khan at the apparel apex body's Uttara office in the city, according to a statement.

The organisation wanted to encourage local producers/manufacturers to play an active and leading role in the social and environmental due diligence process.

The meeting discussed the development of a unified standard to facilitate the sustainable development and audit process of the garment industry, it added.

Presenting the action plan at the meeting, John Stelson said it emphasised the transfer of responsibility for sustainable development to suppliers and manufacturers.

He said that this will allow factories and their buyers/brands to better predict both supply chain performance and lead times.

Welcoming Amfori's new action plan, Mr Khan reiterated BGMEA's strong commitment for developing a unified code of conduct for social and environmental standards in the garment industry. He stressed the need for a unified audit framework to avoid duplication of audits and enhance efficiency, which is a key issue for manufacturers.

Both the parties agreed on launching a pilot initiative

Both sides agreed joint efforts, including knowledge sharing, are essential to make the audit process in the supply chain more effective, cost-effective, and transparent.

munni_fe@yahoo.com