How amfori is Helping Indian Manufacturers Meet ESG Demand

amfori has launched an initiative across India to help companies address growing global expectations around environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards. 

The international business association promotes open and sustainable trade and is focusing its resources on supporting Indian businesses as new trade regulations reshape access to global markets.

Helping firms meet global ESG demands

amfori's newly opened India office will be at the centre of these efforts. The organisation is already working with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) to deliver a national programme of workshops and roundtables aimed at helping exporters understand and meet ESG requirements.

These events are designed to support Indian businesses in adjusting to international ESG expectations, improving supply chain transparency and maintaining competitiveness on the global stage.

Global scrutiny is rising for Indian industry as rules change how trade operates. 

In particular, two European Union policies are central to these developments: the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). Both bring stricter requirements for businesses.

These directives require clear documentation of ESG practices, tracking of sustainability risks and evidence of ethical conduct across the entire supply chain. 

As these frameworks come into effect, they redefine what is needed for market access in Europe, transforming ESG from a voluntary measure into a basic expectation in global commerce.

This presents a challenge and an opening for Indian businesses. While the regulatory shift adds pressure, compliance can also strengthen supply chain resilience and lead to longer-term contracts with international partners.

To support companies through this, amfori’s India programme provides practical, hands-on guidance. Natasha Majumdar, Director of amfori's India office, describes this as a critical moment for Indian industry. She says the country is well-positioned to play a leadership role in sustainable supply chains.

"The world is moving toward sustainable value chains, and Indian industry has both the talent and the tenacity to lead this transformation," says Natasha.

"amfori’s presence in India aims to make that journey easier, smarter and more collaborative by inviting Indian business to participate in amfori’s global membership."

Workshops target sector-specific needs

The national rollout includes events designed to make ESG compliance more accessible. Sessions will cover specific sectors and offer hands-on, applicable guidance.

Scheduled activities for the remainder of 2025 include:

• Leather Sector Roundtable, Kolkata (1 August): This session focuses on governance, labour standards and environmental concerns in leather production. As a major export sector, leather faces increased ESG risks, especially related to workforce conditions and chemical use. This roundtable will share clear steps to help local producers align with ESG standards and secure continued access to international markets.
   
• Trade and Sustainability Workshop, New Delhi (15 October): A full-day event, this paid workshop is aimed at businesses needing detailed ESG support. It offers practical advice on how to report ESG efforts, assess suppliers, manage risks and respond to audits.
   
• Trade and Sustainability Conference, New Delhi (16 October): Bringing together leaders in trade, policy and sustainability from India and abroad, this flagship event features keynote speeches, panels and case studies. It is set to explore how ESG and global trade rules are coming together, encouraging knowledge exchange and showcasing how Indian businesses are managing ESG challenges.

These sessions continue the model developed at the 2024 Trade and Sustainability Workshop, which explored the main operational challenges companies face when implementing ESG standards.

Gathering feedback to inform global policy

amfori plans to collect feedback from these India-based events and publish a formal report during the October conference. The report will reflect sector-specific input, highlight where businesses are struggling and offer recommendations to support stronger ESG alignment in supply chains.

This document will also feed into amfori’s broader role in shaping international trade policy. By highlighting practical examples and obstacles, the report aims to ensure that Indian businesses are heard in global ESG debates.

Linda Kromjong, President of amfori, says the initiative supports a wider mission: "amfori’s mission is simple yet profound. We want trade to serve a greater purpose, benefitting people, planet and profit.

"India, with its innovation potential and entrepreneurial spirit, is a vital partner in realising that vision."