Industry

COP26 has focused the world’s attention on the need for a more sustainable economic model that ensures profits and growth are not achieved at the expense of ecological health and social well-being.

Amid attempts to increase textile production in West Africa and capitalise on the added value that comes from cotton processing, efforts are being made to reform supply chains both regionally and globally.

Investors, regulators and consumers around the globe are increasing their focus on environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles as they seek products and services that protect the environment, mitigate social risk and offer positive returns for stakeholders. 

Initially sparked by supply chain disruptions associated with the Covid-19 pandemic, a worldwide shortage of microchips has intensified in recent months, largely due to a new round of lockdowns in South-east Asia. Given the impact on strategically important sectors like automotive, efforts are under way to prevent similar issues in the future.

With Togo moving to position itself as a regional leader in terms of textile production, the country is increasing its focus on sustainability and digitalisation as it seeks to maximise value across the supply chain.

While West Africa is one of the largest producers of cotton, it has the ability to process less than 2% of the crop locally; around 90% is exported to markets in Asia, where value is added through spinning and weaving.