Latest news with #CascaleForum
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Vietnam Completes Second Round of Trade Talks With U.S.
The United States and Vietnam have concluded a second round of trade negotiations according to Vietnam's trade ministry, which noted significant progress being made in talks scheduled from May 19-22 in Washington. In a statement on Thursday, the trade body said that both sides engaged in substantive discussions on all agenda items outlined ahead of the session. Vietnam faces one of the highest tariff impositions announced by president Trump's administration in April, at 46 percent. More from Sourcing Journal Trump Lashes Out at Walmart, Says Retailer Should 'Eat the Tariffs' Tariffs Tank China's US Exports, but Southeast Asia and India Cash In Vietnam-to-US Exports, Freight Rates Soar on Tariff Drama Nguyễn Hồng Diên, minister of industry and trade in Vietnam met with Ambassador and US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to review the outcomes of the second round and identify key issues. According to a statement from the ministry on Thursday, discussions will continue at the end of June. The 90-day pause on the proposed 46-percent tariffs ends on July 8. Hồng Diên spoke about the intent to foster a balanced and sustainable economic and trade relationship with the U.S., for the benefit of both countries' peoples and businesses', while Ambassador Greer praised Vietnam's goodwill and efforts to address US concerns and expressed a desire to continue technical-level and ministerial-level exchanges to reach an agreement as soon as possible. According to the office of the U.S. Trade representative, the trade deficit of Vietnam with the U.S. was $123.5 billion in 2024, with the U.S. importing goods worth $136.6 billion in 2024, as against exporting goods worth $13.1 billion to Vietnam. Meanwhile, the industry in Vietnam has been gathering at several forums over the past few weeks to get a handle on what the 46 percent tariff levied against Vietnam could mean for the industry. Vietnam exported apparel worth $44 billion in 2024, with an approximate 38 percent of this to the U.S, an increase of 12.33 percent over the previous year according to the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS). At a forum organized by Cascale in Ho Chi Minh City on May 14-15, Vu Duc Giang, Chairman of the Vietnam Textile & Apparel Association (VITAS) mirrored the feeling that appeared to be reverberating through the 600 industry professionals present. 'None of us can go alone—collaboration is the only way. When brands, manufacturers, organizations and governments come together and share responsibility, any goal can be achieved,' he said in his keynote address. The point was amplified through the event. 'The Cascale Forum in Ho Chi Minh City reminds us that while policy can shift and stall, manufacturers have a great opportunity to lead. Our ongoing mandate is to ensure that this progress isn't slowed by uncertainty—but accelerated through collaboration,' Andrew Martin, executive vice president, Cascale, said in a session. Cascale, a global nonprofit alliance formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, empowers collaboration to drive equitable and restorative business practices in the consumer goods industry, and owns and develops the Higg Index, which is available on Worldly, a comprehensive sustainability data and insights platform. Sharing their thoughts, and in urgent discussions that often skirted around the looming tariffs were manufacturers, leading brands, service providers, and supply chain partners. Other important issues including decarbonization, regulatory changes, facility improvements, responsible contracting and worker rights were also discussed. Vietnamese manufacturers attending the event told Sourcing Journal about their fears that global brands would pressure them to shoulder the costs of tariff impacts, while underlining the need to protect workers as the apparel industry in Vietnam employs more than three million people. Discussions about how this situation should be handled were also ongoing. As Lindsay Wright, director of communications and strategic partnerships, Better Buying, Cascale observed: 'Manufacturers are clear: Global brands should not use tariffs as an excuse to roll back on their responsible business commitments. If they do, the consumer goods industry will have to pick up the pieces later.' Massimiliano Tropeano, garment, trade and sustainability expert at GIZ-EuroCham Cambodia, noted that while tariffs focused on reshaping physical trade flows, the real story is much more complex. 'The complexity of a topic like tariff trade cannot be simplified, however, the base number on which the trade imbalance have been calculated are intrinsically wrong. Take the iPhone. Designed in California, yes—but manufactured in China. This shows up as China's export numbers, not America's. And it's not just hardware. Software giants like Microsoft, Meta, and Alphabet sell digital products and services globally—but often book the revenue through offshore entities in low-tax jurisdictions like Ireland or the kicker to all of this is that ironically the above is adding to the very trade imbalance that U.S. tariffs aimed to correct.' 'As we move forward in a world of digital globalization, maybe it's time to rethink how we measure economic power, national competitiveness, and fair trade,' he said. Important points to note for manufacturers included the focus on managing regulations as well as sustainability and environmental concerns. 'In the Asia-Pacific region, regulation is fast becoming strategy,' Cascale's Martin emphasized. 'We are increasingly seeing many countries stepping up with more progressive policies. To support this, Cascale advocates for clear, consistent guidance that manufacturers can actually use. We're actively engaging across all three regions to push for global and regional frameworks that are practical, aligned, and grounded in manufacturers' realities. 'Our shared mission is driving positive impact across the largest engaged supply chain network in the industry,' said Adele Stafford, chief growth officer at Worldly at the event. She spoke about the growing momentum on the platform: 'Over 20,000 Higg Facility Environmental Modules (FEMs) have already been completed in 2025, with each supplier sharing data with an average of four brands, improving efficiency.' While economists are calling for 'increased self reliance,' manufacturers are also looking at ways to speed past the possible deadline on July 8. The HCM City Association of Garments, Textiles, Embroidery and Knitting has called for ramping up production to increase shipments before the tariff increases kick in. 'There's only so much we can do to sidestep this huge tariff,' a manufacturer said, asking not to be named. 'Meanwhile, we're just counting on negotiations turning this new avalanche around.'
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
LRQA reinforces Southeast Asia's role in Global Supply Chains at the 2025 Cascale Forum
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As the Asia Pacific region faces heightened scrutiny over supply chain sustainability, LRQA reaffirmed its dedication to responsible sourcing at the Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City, held on May 14–15, 2025. This premier event convened manufacturers, brands, NGOs, and policymakers to address pressing sustainability challenges and foster collaborative solutions. Representing LRQA, Nu Nguyen - Director of Operations for Southeast Asia, participated in a pivotal session titled "Building Trust and Collaboration in the Workplace." The panel, which included representatives from the LABS Initiative/IDH, Better Work Vietnam, SLCP, CNV International Vietnam, Sumerra, a manufacturing factory representative, and LRQA, explored practical strategies for improving worker engagement and strengthening collaboration across supply chains. Speaking on LRQA's role in advancing trust and transparency, Nu Nguyen shared: "At LRQA, we believe trust drives lasting compliance and improvement. It grows when all parties work as partners; openly sharing challenges, raising issues to find solutions, and using data and assessments to enable progress, not punishment. This is how we move beyond checklists to create real impact in supply chains." Reflecting on LRQA's broader participation, Nu highlighted how the forum not only reinforced LRQA's leadership in driving trust and collaboration but also deepened connections with key stakeholders across Southeast Asia. Engaging with industry peers, partners, and policymakers further strengthened LRQA's position as a trusted ESG advisor, supporting businesses to move beyond basic compliance toward meaningful, data-led improvements that create resilient and responsible supply chains. Through its comprehensive ESG advisory services, LRQA empowers organisations to manage risk, ensure compliance, and drive sustainability across their operations. Leveraging expertise in responsible sourcing, due diligence, sustainability strategy, and supplier engagement, combined with data-driven insights and deep industry knowledge, LRQA helps businesses stay ahead of evolving regulations and stakeholder expectations. Its integrated approach also includes strategic support in areas such as supply chain risk assessment, carbon footprint analysis, and decarbonisation planning, enabling clients to build future-ready supply chains aligned with their long-term ESG ambitions. About LRQA LRQA is a leading global assurance partner, bringing together decades of unrivalled expertise in assessment, advisory, inspection and cybersecurity services. Our solutions-based partnerships are supported by data-driven insights that help our clients solve their biggest business challenges. Operating in more than 150 countries with a team of more than 5,000 people, LRQA's award-winning compliance, supply chain, cybersecurity and ESG specialists help more than 61,000 clients across almost every sector to anticipate, mitigate and manage risk wherever they operate. In everything we do, we are committed to shaping a better future for our people, our clients, our communities, and our planet. For more information, visit Media Contact:Hasan SurveRegional Marketing Manager – Asia Pacific (APAC), View original content: SOURCE LRQA Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Tariffs Impending, Vietnam-Based Apparel Manufacturers Speak Out
Collaboration on decarbonization, human rights anchors discussions at Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS; HONG KONG; OAKLAND, CA / ACCESS Newswire / May 19, 2025 / At the recent Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City, over 600 manufacturers, leading brands, service providers, and supply chain partners - Cascale members and non-members alike - convened to address urgent challenges and opportunities in the consumer goods value chain. Topics spanned industry decarbonization, trade shifts, regulatory changes, facility improvements, responsible contracting, worker rights, and more. Discussions were especially critical for Vietnam-based apparel manufacturers, who may face impacts of higher U.S. tariffs when a 90-day pause on proposed 46-percent tariffs ends on July 8. A dedicated Vietnamese stage spotlighted local expertise and leadership, and the entire program was delivered bilingually to ensure full participation from Vietnamese stakeholders. Colin Browne, Cascale CEO, opened the event by challenging brands and suppliers to work together to set Science-Based Targets (SBTs) for decarbonization. "Setting an SBT without close consultation with one's supply chain is unacceptable and irresponsible given the near-term deadline of 2030," he said. "But with the right actionable data and mutual support, there is hope." Vu Duc Giang, Chairman of the Vietnam Textile & Apparel Association (VITAS, a Cascale association partner), delivered the opening keynote address. "None of us can go alone - collaboration is the only way," he said. "When brands, manufacturers, organizations and governments come together and share responsibility, any goal can be achieved." During the session "Navigating Global Policy: Impact on Sourcing Countries & Strategies," Andrew Martin, Cascale executive vice president, said: "In EMEA and the Americas, manufacturers are navigating an evolving maze of often conflicting regulations. Yet in the Asia-Pacific region, regulation is fast becoming strategy - as we are increasingly seeing many countries stepping up with more progressive policies. To support this, Cascale advocates for clear, consistent guidance that manufacturers can actually use. We're actively engaging across all three regions to push for global and regional frameworks that are practical, aligned, and grounded in manufacturers' realities. The Cascale Forum in Ho Chi Minh City reminds us that while policy can shift and stall, manufacturers have a great opportunity to lead. Our ongoing mandate is to ensure that this progress isn't slowed by uncertainty - but accelerated through collaboration." With Worldly, Cascale recently released a new report, "Navigating Regulation and Building Resilience: Key Trends in Corporate Supply Chain Responsibility for APAC in 2025," available in both Vietnamese and Chinese. Vietnam-based manufacturers spoke up at the Cascale Better Buying: Creating Shared Value for Buyers & Suppliers to Drive Decent Work for All session, reporting fears that global brand customers will pressure them to shoulder the costs of tariff impacts. They also urged prioritization of worker protections in high-risk countries like Vietnam, where apparel production employs three million people. "Manufacturers are clear: Global brands should not use tariffs as an excuse to roll back on their responsible business commitments," said Lindsay Wright, director of communications and strategic partnerships, Better Buying, Cascale. "If they do, the consumer goods industry will have to pick up the pieces later." Leonie Vaas, general manager - sustainability at Hirdaramani Apparel presented a case study during the session "From Factory Floor to Global Impact: How Manufacturers are Leading the Way." With a manufacturing footprint that includes over 30 facilities across Asia and Africa - including Vietnam - Hirdaramani embeds ESG practices into operations across regions. "At Hirdaramani, our Future First Sustainability Roadmap is built on the belief that manufacturers can be powerful catalysts for real change," she said. "By embedding sustainability into every part of our operations, from energy and water to employee well-being and community empowerment, we are not just meeting global standards - we are helping shape them. Aligned with global agendas such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), our Future First Roadmap is scalable across markets, collaborative, and impact-driven, enabling us to work closely with our partners. As an apparel manufacturer, we know that what we do matters, and delivering progress starts with taking responsibility." Matthew Guenther, vice president of corporate sustainability at TAL Apparel Ltd, which manufactures in Ethiopia, Thailand, and Vietnam, contributed to the session "Vietnam's DPPA: Powering Decarbonization Opportunities" by sharing TAL's perspective on the importance of renewable energy access for manufacturers. "Renewable electricity is a key intervention on our decarbonization roadmap," he said. "Rooftop solar will only provide 20-25 percent of our renewable electricity needs. Access to offsite renewable electricity projects, such as that offered through Vietnam's DPPA, would be a big unlock for our company to achieve our net-zero target." Adele Stafford, chief growth officer at Worldly, the leading platform for sustainability data and analytics in consumer goods supply chains, led the Worldly Product Roadmap - Data to Action session. As the Higg Index tools are owned and developed by Cascale and exclusively available on Worldly, the two organizations are tightly integrated, Stafford shared. "Cascale drives industry alignment and standards, while Worldly operationalizes those standards with scalable, dynamic technology,"she said. "Our shared mission is driving positive impact across the largest engaged supply chain network in the industry." Stafford also reported growing momentum on the platform: Over 20,000 Higg Facility Environmental Modules (FEMs) have already been completed in 2025, with each supplier sharing data with an average of four brands, improving efficiency. Presented by Lead Partner Worldly, the Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City agenda was shaped by leaders from the Apparel Impact Institute (Aii), Crystal International, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Hirdaramani Group, New Balance, Puma Group, and VITAS, who served on the event's program advisory council. More information about programming, speakers, and sponsors can be found on the Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City webpage. Next up? The Cascale Annual Meeting 2025, taking place September 15-17 in Hong Kong. Visit the Cascale Annual Meeting 2025 webpage for more information and sponsorship opportunities. ABOUT CASCALE Cascale is the global nonprofit alliance empowering collaboration to drive equitable and restorative business practices in the consumer goods industry. Formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Cascale owns and develops the Higg Index, which is exclusively available on Worldly, the most comprehensive sustainability data and insights platform. Cascale unites over 300 retailers, brands, manufacturers, governments, academics, and NGO/nonprofit affiliates around the globe through one singular vision: To catalyze impact at scale and give back more than we take to the planet and its people. LinkedIn | X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Cascale on Contact Info:Spokesperson: CascaleWebsite: Email: info@ SOURCE: Cascale View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Associated Press
07-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Cascale CEO Calls for Sustainability in Sporting Goods at FESI Conference Keynote
At the recent Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI) annual conference in Brussels, Cascale CEO Colin Browne gave a keynote speech on the state of the sports and outdoor goods industry and the importance of prioritizing sustainability to combat the climate crisis. With the theme of 'Clarifying and simplifying sustainability rules: building effective policies for the European sporting goods industry,' the event brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss and address key issues related to the sustainability and policy landscape within the European sporting goods industry. Following an overview of Cascale's origins and its vision to convene stakeholders across the industry on a pre-competitive basis to develop a common approach to measuring sustainability, Browne highlighted that while 52 percent of companies in the sports and outdoor industry have set carbon reduction targets, only 22 percent have committed to science-based targets. He noted inconsistent progress on sustainability across the industry, with some companies stagnating while others lead on adaptation and innovation. Browne shared statistics on the industry's decarbonization progress and urged companies to act on their sustainability commitments to maintain their competitive edge. Reaffirming Cascale's commitment to driving industry-wide decarbonization through the Industry Decarbonization Roadmap (IDR), Browne emphasized that by engaging the right players, the industry could cut emissions fast and at scale. Browne shared how IDR focuses on high-impact suppliers, ensuring resources go where they matter most. Browne acknowledged the lack of harmonized legislation to drive industry-wide progress but urged companies to set their own sustainability strategies, leading by example and ensuring optimal future positioning. He emphasized the importance of leadership in business to achieve real impactful change. Closing with a call to action, Browne encouraged attendees to register for the Cascale Forum, which will take place May 14-15 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The two-day event will bring manufacturers, suppliers, brands, retailers, and key industry stakeholders together to drive actionable solutions on decarbonization, foundational environmental performance, responsible purchasing practices, and audit fatigue.
Associated Press
10-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City Challenges Consumer Goods Industry To Act
AMSTERDAM, HONG KONG, and OAKLAND, Calif., March 10, 2025 /3BL/ - The Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City, taking place on May 14-15, will bring together manufacturers, suppliers, brands, retailers, and key industry stakeholders to drive actionable solutions for decarbonization, environmental performance, responsible purchasing practices, and audit fatigue. With a focus on sustainable production, the forum underscores the critical role Vietnam plays as the world's second-largest textile, apparel, and footwear exporter. Open to both members and industry stakeholders, the event marks the first time Cascale's Manufacturer and Brand & Retail Forums are combined into one unifying platform. Set in one of the world's most critical manufacturing hubs, the two-day immersive event will address urgent sustainability challenges and opportunities, fostering collaboration between key industry actors and associated stakeholders. This year's agenda is shaped by leaders from the Apparel Impact Institute (Aii), Crystal International, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Hirdaramani Group, New Balance, Puma Group, and the Vietnam Textile & Apparel Association (VITAS), who serve on the event's advisory council. 'There could not be a better time or place to convene on sustainability challenges given the evolving regulatory landscape and resounding appeal for industry to fill in the gaps where promises are often falling short. Sustainability is no longer a 'nice to have,' it's a business imperative,' said Colin Browne, Cascale CEO, who will deliver the opening address. 'Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City is an opportunity for stakeholders to embed future-proofing practices into core business strategies to drive growth, resilience, and lasting impact. We are honored to host it in Vietnam, a country who remains committed to delivering on green initiatives while being in close proximity to the sourcing regions and manufacturer networks who see the first-hand impacts of the climate crisis and deepening injustices.' 'Partnering with Cascale at its forum in Vietnam is a great opportunity to bring together manufacturers and brand leaders in one of the world's key manufacturing hubs,' said Scott Raskin, CEO of Worldly, Lead Partner of Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City. 'Suppliers are facing growing pressure to meet sustainability targets, navigate complex reporting requirements, and manage audit fatigue—all while continuing to run their businesses. By working together, Worldly and Cascale are creating solutions that increase visibility, improve transparency, and foster real collaboration between brands and their suppliers. Our goal is to make it easier for manufacturers to share data once, reduce redundancies, and focus on meaningful progress—reducing environmental impact while improving working conditions. This partnership is about breaking down barriers and helping the entire supply chain move forward together.' Vietnam is a critical region for sustainable consumer goods production, with a particular concentration in textile, apparel, and footwear, and luggage. With $44 billion in revenue in 2024 – an over 11 percent increase, as compared to the previous year – it is now the world's second largest textile, apparel, and footwear exporter, next to China. VITAS aims for over $47 billion in export revenue this year, while continuing to deliver on commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning to renewable energy sources, part of the country's ambition to become carbon neutral by 2050. This reflects Cascale's goal of delivering a 45% reduction of GHGs across the apparel industry value chain by 2030, executed through collaborative climate action programs like the Industry Decarbonization Roadmap and GIZ PDP Solar Rooftop Initiative, which support decarbonization efforts for manufacturers in Vietnam. As one of just a few events where the entire consumer goods value chain can gather to align on shared objectives, Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City reflects the theme: 'Co-Creating Tomorrow: Unified Action for People & Planet.' The event will feature thought-provoking sessions including updates on Cascale's Higg Index tools, exclusively available on Worldly, as well as visionary speakers, a dynamic exhibition area, and specialized training sessions that provide certifications to enhance organizational credibility and demonstrate commitment to environmental and social sustainability. 'Echoing the theme 'Co-Creating Tomorrow: Unified Action for People & Planet,' I look forward to joining all the industry peers at the Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City to drive collective actions and bring actionable insights for our shared vision. Representing the voice from the manufacturers' perspective, I envision driving impactful change in the global fashion value chain,' said Kyle Chung, assistant general manager, corporate quality and sustainability, Crystal Group Limited. 'The Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City serves as an invaluable platform for driving meaningful discussions and collaboration on sustainability. At Hirdaramani Apparel, we are committed to fostering innovation and shared solutions that promote sustainable practices. This forum empowers industry leaders to collectively shape a more sustainable future for the global apparel sector,' said Leonie Vaas, general manager, sustainability at Hirdaramani Apparel. 'At New Balance, we believe in fostering greater sustainability through collective action. The only way to create a more responsible apparel and footwear industry for the future is by collaborating closely with peers, supply chain partners, and communities,' said Tony Hung, supply chain sustainability manager, New Balance. 'We've listened closely to our members and the broader industry, taking a hard look at where we can make the greatest impact. The Cascale Forum: Ho Chi Minh City is the culmination of that effort—a program designed to bring together key players across the value chain, with the manufacturer's voice at the core. This event offers a unique platform to collaborate, learn, and take action on the most pressing issues in sustainability. It's more than just an event; it's an opportunity to be part of the movement toward real, measurable change in our industry,' said Lee Green, Senior Director, Marketing & Communications, Cascale. event webpage. ABOUT CASCALE Cascale is the global nonprofit alliance empowering collaboration to drive equitable and restorative business practices in the consumer goods industry. Formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Cascale owns and develops the Higg Index, which is exclusively available on Worldly, the most comprehensive sustainability data and insights platform. Cascale unites over 300 retailers, brands, manufacturers, governments, academics, and NGO/nonprofit affiliates around the globe through one singular vision: To catalyze impact at scale and give back more than we take to the planet and its people.
