China

Joining the China Corporate Caucus of the Ethical Trading Initiative in 2012 made it possible to exchange good practices and identify common interests and collective priorities shared with other international companies and organisations present in China in a common effort to strengthen its textile sector.

Furthermore, in 2012, the cluster, along with Inditex's Department of Environment, coordinated the Zero Discharge programme. The activities carried out included organising training sessions for 6 suppliers and 10 factories as well as supporting the collection of samples.

Directly working and cooperating with the suppliers and manufacturers is the cornerstone of the cluster in China. The following is worth mentioning as far as 2012 is concerned:

• 214 individual meetings with suppliers and factories to ensure compliance with the Code of Conduct for Manufacturers and Suppliers
• Training carried out for 165 factories and suppliers regarding fundamental labour standards
• 164 competence visits to factories directed at ensuring compliance with the Code of Conduct for Manufacturers and Suppliers

More information about the clusters can be found in the Sustainability Balance Sheet.