#South Korea #Seoul #Sae-A Trading #Better Cotton Initiative #sustainable cotton

Sae-A Trading Achieves Historic BCI Certification

On October 14, 2025, Sae-A Trading, a prominent global apparel manufacturer and exporter, announced that it has become the first company in South Korea's textile and apparel industry to earn certification under the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) Physical Chain of Custody (CoC) standard. This distinction not only marks a significant milestone for Sae-A Trading but also positions it as a leader in sustainable practices in the textile sector.

The certification signifies that Sae-A Trading successfully manages the use of sustainable cotton across its vertically integrated production, which includes yarn production, fabric creation, and the crafting of final garments. This transparent approach enhances the company's global positioning as a trusted apparel manufacturer and demonstrates its unwavering commitment to sustainable practices within the industry.

Understanding the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI)

Founded in Switzerland in 2005, the BCI initiative seeks to promote sustainable cotton production methods, addressing both environmental and social factors. Currently, BCI represents about 22% of global cotton production and has established standards that emphasize responsible water usage, soil health, and biodiversity while ensuring labor rights and safety for workers. The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated as it aligns with the growing global demand for sustainability in the fashion and textile industries.

The Physical Chain of Custody Certification

The Physical Chain of Custody system, which was introduced by BCI in 2024, enhances the traceability and verification of certified cotton. As of April 2025, mandatory on-site inspections by accredited third-party auditors are required to ensure compliance with BCI standards. By achieving this certification, Sae-A Trading has cemented its credibility in sustainable cotton management.

Audits were conducted by accredited partners Control Union Inspections (Pvt) Ltd. and GSCS International Indonesia. During these thorough inspections, auditors assessed Sae-A Trading's facilities, including Sae-A Spinning in Costa Rica, PT. Win Textile in Indonesia, and the headquarters located in Seoul, South Korea. They scrutinized how cotton was managed in each facility, examining everything from usage volumes and digital tracking systems to shipment records, validating the adoption of BCI standards.

Enhanced Traceability and Transparency

With this certification, Sae-A Trading has strengthened the traceability of its entire supply chain. The achievement offers further validation regarding the sustainable management of cotton throughout key production processes, reassuring stakeholders about the integrity of their products from production to final delivery. The company has incorporated the Better Cotton Platform (BCP) into its operations, allowing for the digital tracking of cotton transactions and ensuring that transparent and reliable data is made available to its global partners.

Jacob Park, Manager of the Global Procurement Division at Sae-A Trading, shared insights on this achievement, stating, "This certification demonstrates that Sae-A Trading has established one of the most advanced sustainable cotton management systems in line with global standards. We are dedicated to extending our certification across our sewing facilities in Southeast Asia and Central America, amplifying our use of sustainable materials while reinforcing our leadership in responsible apparel manufacturing."

The Future of Sustainable Cotton Production

As the textile industry faces increasing scrutiny over its environmental impact, certifications like BCI are becoming vital for companies aiming to position themselves as market leaders. Sae-A Trading's accomplishment sets a benchmark for others in the industry and showcases the potential to combine quality manufacturing with sustainable practices.

In conclusion, Sae-A Trading’s latest achievement serves as an exemplary case of how a commitment to sustainability can significantly enhance a company's reputation while addressing pressing environmental and social concerns. As the brand continues to innovate and implement sustainable practices, it not only advances its operations but also contributes to the global dialogue on responsible production in the textile industry.