H&M Group has become the Alliance’s latest global business partner, joining a growing number of international companies supporting simpler, faster, and more inclusive trade.
Alliance global business partners contribute their expertise and resources towards Alliance projects and initiatives. They also act as ambassadors to promote the importance of full implementation of the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement and the Alliance public private partnership approach to trade reform.
With 2022 sales of US$ 22 billion, stores in 79 countries, online operations in 58 markets, 150,000 direct employees and around 1.3 million textile workers – 63% of them women, H&M Group is well positioned to support the development and implementation of Alliance projects across the developing world.
The Alliance is focused on achieving measurable results in trade facilitation, driving the economic growth that can help reduce poverty and improve lives in developing countries and least developed countries.
Streamlining trade can unleash the potential of businesses of every size, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), enabling them to access global markets, providing new jobs and generating investment that can bolster inclusive economic growth.
Nesli Al Mufti, Global Trade Adviser, H&M Group said: ” As a global company it is vital to be efficient and demand driven. Trade facilitation and the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement has an important role to play in this regard, making this partnership with the Alliance an excellent fit.”
H&M Group’s vision is to lead the change towards achieving a circular fashion industry with net-zero climate impact, while being a fair and equal company.
“We are delighted to welcome H&M Group as a global business partner,” said Alliance Director Philippe Isler. “I look forward to H&M’s involvement in our work towards strengthening supply chain resiliency.”
“With decades of first-hand experience of operating resilient supply chains, hands-on engagement with suppliers, and a strong commitment to promoting gender equality, H&M Group is in an excellent position to provide invaluable inputs into Alliance projects.”