The SFA has published two Statements of Intent on our Standards system, one on a Camelid Scope expansion of the SFA Animal Fibre Standard and the other a review of the SFA Clean Fibre Processing Standard, and we are seeking feedback from all stakeholders and members of the public. Learn more about how to participate and provide feedback on these Statements of Intent below…
SFA Animal Fibre Standard Camelid Scope
Why camelids?
Camelids are vital to pastoral communities worldwide, supporting their cultures, economies, and food security. From the Andean highlands to the arid regions of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, these resilient animals provide fibre and food even in extreme climates, helping indigenous peoples adapt to climate change.
Despite their importance, no standard currently defines responsible camelid fibre production. In 2024, alongside the International Year of Camelids, we began developing an expansion of the SFA Animal Fibre Standard (AFS) to include requirements for camelids, following our key scope focus of animal welfare and responsible fibre production.
What’s next?
In recognition of this development, we have published an AFS Camelid Scope Statement of Intent to highlight why this new scope expansion is being considered and the development process. We are now seeking feedback on the Statement of Intent from all stakeholders and members of the public through a fair and inclusive consultation process.
Until 28th April 2025, stakeholders can provide feedback through our Open Consultation Portal. Following this initial consultation period, a draft revised standard will then open for public consultation from early July to early September 2025.
SFA Clean Fibre Processing Standard Review
Why a revised standard?
Version 1.1 of the SFA Clean Fibre Processing Standard (CFPS), published in 2021, was created to minimise the environmental impact of cashmere processing, particularly by eliminating harmful chemicals like alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEOs) from scouring and dehairing.
Clause 6.14 of the ISEAL Code of Good Practice requires standards to be reviewed every five years for relevance and effectiveness. With the last update in 2021, the CFPS v1.1 is now due for review.
What’s next?
Following this requirement for review, we have published a CFPS v2.0 Statement of Intent to showcase the different areas that are being considered and the development process. We are now seeking feedback on the Statement of Intent from all stakeholders and members of the public through a fair and inclusive consultation process.
Until September 2025, stakeholders can provide feedback through our Open Consultation Portal. Following this, a draft revised standard of v2.0 will then open for public consultation from late 2025 to early 2026.
Katy Edwards
SFA MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
1 April 2025