SUCCESS STORIES 

Certification as a Catalyst for Change

Uzbekistan is undergoing a profound transformation: Once burdened by forced labor, the country’s cotton sector is evolving into a modern, export-oriented textile industry – with a clear goal of gaining access to the European market. Since December 2023, the expert team behind CERTahead has been supporting this ambitious journey as part of the GIZ project “Sustainability and Value Added in the Cotton Economy.” Their work builds on a broader sectoral shift: from monocultures and water scarcity to sustainable, competitive production—with a commitment to transparency and reform. 

A Strategic Path to Sustainability and Market Readiness

CERTahead’s specialists guided selected textile companies and clusters as well as local consultants in Uzbekistan toward implementing internationally recognized sustainability standards – including GOTS, OEKO-TEX®, Amfori BSCI, and Textile Exchange Standards. These were identified as particularly relevant for entering the European market. The tailored program combines Train-the-Trainer formats, hands-on workshops, stakeholder dialogues, and individual coaching. Between late 2023 and October 2024, three on-site missions took place in Tashkent, Fergana, and Namangan, following a preparation phase with online training. A core element was a standardized training toolkit, including 16 factsheets and a structured matrix, which provided clear, actionable insights into the requirements of each standard. 

From Knowledge to Practice

The CERTahead experts delivered a well-structured mix of technical consulting and interactive training, combining theory and hands-on simulations. Tools like quizzes, group work, and audit role plays helped demystify complex certification processes. Under expert mentoring, local trainers like Alisher Khusainov and Umid Sayfuddinov conducted applied coaching sessions in spinning mills, dye houses, and garment factories. Several companies have since achieved GOTS and OCS certifications, while others have initiated certification processes. The participatory format not only increased understanding but also inspired future trainers to multiply their knowledge across the sector. 

Certification as a Key to the European Market

The demand for certified, sustainable textiles is rising globally—particularly in Europe under the EU Green Deal. Uzbek textile firms are motivated to meet these expectations, though many face challenges such as a lack of access to testing centers or limited familiarity with audit requirements. This project provided targeted, company-specific coaching that emphasized due diligence, transparency, and regulatory compliance. The initiative also helped improve local capacity, especially among women and young entrepreneurs, positioning the sector for long-term success. 

Systemic Insights into Central Asia

Beyond technical training, the project gave the experts a deep understanding of regional realities—economic, cultural, and social. In open dialogue, participants reflected on past experiences with forced labor, current issues like corruption, and the need for living wages. This honesty revealed a genuine local commitment to change. The open exchange with stakeholders, including ministries and NGOs, and the involvement of engaged standard-setters like OEKO-TEX and SLCP, further amplified the project's impact. 

Beyond the Framework of the Project

Even after the project concludes in autumn 2024, the CERTahead experts remain engaged. A follow-up mission in June 2025 will support additional companies on their path to sustainability. The success of this initiative, marked by intensive collaboration, effective training materials, and practical outcomes, offers a strong foundation for continued progress in the region. 

Towards Strategic Sustainability

Katharina Schaus, Carola Dieners, and Simone Seisl look back on their contribution with pride: Not only did they guide companies through certification, but they also helped establish a long-term mindset shift. Their collaboration—previously as competitors, now as a harmonized team—exemplifies what strategic, values-driven transformation can achieve. By embedding sustainability at both strategic and operational levels, they laid the groundwork for a resilient and forward-looking Uzbek textile industry.