At an international conference in Tashkent dedicated to protecting labor rights, promoting responsible production, and introducing sustainable standards in the textile industry, Chairperson of the Senate and Chairperson of the National Commission on Combating Human Trafficking and Ensuring Decent Work, Tanzila Narbayeva, noted that in recent years the country has implemented profound and systemic reforms in all areas, with the changes in labor relations and the eradication of forced labor holding particular historic significance.

The conference presented key reforms being implemented within the framework of the Better Cotton Initiative for 2024-2025 – the complete transition to a certification system, the advancement of regenerative agriculture standards, the introduction of updated BCI labeling, and the results of independent monitoring in Uzbekistan.

It was noted that the Cotton Campaign coalition’s lifting of the boycott on Uzbek cotton is one of the most significant international acknowledgements of the large-scale reforms implemented in Uzbekistan.

The Chairperson of the Senate emphasized that Uzbekistan’s cooperation with BCI, international organizations, major global brands, and certification institutions is steadily expanding. She also highlighted the country’s readiness for open dialogue and joint initiatives to promote sustainable production, apply ESG principles, introduce due diligence practices, and ensure full transparency in supply chains.

Following the conference, the participating parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding and a roadmap.

Norgul Abduraimova, UzA