Cotton Made in Africa

Cotton Made in Africa (CmiA) is an internationally recognized certification standard run by the Aid by Trade Foundation that verifies cotton has been sustainably produced by smallholder farmers across Africa. The standard covers social, environmental, and economic criteria and is verified by independent third parties, giving textile brands, retailers, and apparel manufacturers a credible basis for sustainable sourcing claims. Companies that meet the standard become licensing partners and earn the right to use the Cotton made in Africa® seal on their products.

The program works through a trade-based development model rather than direct aid. Licensing fees paid by participating companies are reinvested into African farming communities, funding agricultural training, improved growing practices, and community development projects. This means that sourcing CmiA-certified cotton directly contributes to better livelihoods for the farmers who produced it, making participation relevant for brands with ESG commitments and supply chain transparency goals.

CmiA is best suited for textile brands, retailers, and product manufacturers that source cotton and want to demonstrate verified social and environmental responsibility to consumers and regulators. The certification covers the full supply chain from farm to finished product, and is recognized by major international retailers, making it a practical option for companies selling into markets where sustainable sourcing credentials carry real commercial weight.