ASTA partnered with the Sustainable Spice Initiative (SSI) to offer an interactive three-part webinar series in spring 2024 on sustainability essentials, namely, how to define sustainability in the spice industry. The sessions address how sustainability is tied to the economic paradigm and the advantages of embracing sustainability, including its profound impact on financial performance and brand enhancement. The series explores insights into global and U.S. sustainability concerns and why and how ASTA members should prioritize sustainability as a risk management tool and regulatory compliance strategy and offer practical insights into navigating sustainability certifications and industry standards. Part III, Putting Sustainability Into Practice: Certifications and Company Initiatives, was presented by Matthew Ford, Growth Sectors Account Manager, Rainforest Alliance, Daniel Montes, Business Development Executive, Control Union, and Amber Sciligo, Director of Science Programs, The Organic Center. This session addresses the following questions: What is the importance of sustainability certification and verification schemes? What are the most commonly used and recognized sustainability certifications, schemes, and frameworks? What are the commonalities and differences between organic and sustainability certifications and standards? How do you choose the sustainability certifications, standards, and schemes that fit your requirements and business model? Where and how can you start your sustainability journey?

U.S. law prohibits the importation of products produced with forced labor, and there have been a number of recent U.S. governmental developments in response to the human rights violations of the Uyghur people in China. These developments include proposed legislation in the House and Senate, a recent State Department advisory, imposition of sanctions by the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”), and U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (“BIS”) action. This webinar provided updates on recent advisories and developments with a particular focus on implications for imported agricultural commodities. The presentation discusses best practices for industry due diligence and offers tips on implementing the latest strategies to mitigate new and emerging supply chain risks. The presentation was provided by Chandri Navarro, Partner, Hogan Lovells US LLP.