Response to the New York Times article published on 30 July 2024

STATEMENT

Regarding an article published on July 30^th, 2024, in the New York Times, that raised concerns about human rights issues in the Indian sugar industry, Control Union reaffirms its commitment to maintain and perform the audits and certification activities, in line with Bonsucro principles of environmental, social and sustainability of sugarcane production.

Bonsucro is a standard owner that drives and encourages the use and implementation of sustainable regulations with a key objective: to accelerate the sustainable production and use of sugarcane produced in an environment with a strong focus on climate action, human rights while adding value throughout the supply chain. As a certification body, we rigorously adhere to Bonsucro ’s approved audit procedures.

In light of these recent concerns, we have initiated an investigation to verify the existence or possibility of this situation in certified producers. We are committed to ensure compliance across the supply chain and to improve continuously by working and strengthening the correct compliance and assurance of the standards and the trust of the final consumer.

You can read the statement from Bonsucro on this article here.