Certifications and traceability of Madagascar raffia: what fashion houses require

WRAP, ICS and BSCI: their scope, limits and the evidence to request for a Madagascar raffia project.

A procurement team must distinguish the factory compliance framework from certification of a material or product. WRAP, ICS and BSCI cover different areas; understanding their scope prevents misunderstandings at contract stage.

WRAP — responsible production

WRAP (Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production) is a global ethical-production standard. It audits working conditions, safety, environment, customs compliance and local-law compliance. For a fashion house sourcing outside Europe, WRAP is the first filter.

Raffia is not covered

The raffia used by SOBIKA is not covered by an organic textile certification. Any traceability or compliance evidence must therefore be assessed specifically for the relevant material and product.

ICS and BSCI — social audit

ICS (Initiative Clause Sociale, run by FCD) and BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative, run by Amfori) are two multi-brand social-audit programmes. They verify human rights, absence of forced or child labour, wages and working hours. Many major brands require one or the other — a workshop audited on both covers both frameworks.

What these certifications don't cover

• The botanical origin of the raffia (Raphia farinifera vs other species) — documented separately.
• REACH compliance on dyes (a supplier technical sheet remains required).
• CITES: Raphia farinifera is not listed, but the question comes up at export — the workshop must have an answer.
• Carbon footprint: none of these certifications measures it.

How SOBIKA operates

SOBIKA is a LOI Confection brand. WRAP, ICS and BSCI apply to the LOI Confection factory; they do not certify raffia or every SOBIKA product. Applicable supporting documents are specified for each project.