Driving sustainability in global supply chains: insights from the amfori – trade with purpose seminar

The amfori Trade with Purpose seminar, titled “Unlocking Opportunities and Managing Challenges in Sustainable Supply Chain Management,” recently took place at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. The event drew a dynamic mix of buyers, business partners, and key stakeholders, all united by a shared interest in advancing sustainable practices in global supply chains.
The seminar served as a platform for open dialogue, allowing participants to connect, collaborate, and exchange valuable insights on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) development. The discussions covered a range of topics, from tackling shared challenges to identifying practical solutions that can make supply chains more sustainable and transparent.
One of the standout moments came during a panel discussion featuring Chris Wong, the Global Head of Compliance at Otto International. As a speaker on the panel, Wong shared Otto’s firsthand experiences in navigating the complex landscape of sustainable supply chain management. His insights shed light on the key strategies that Otto International uses to address the growing demand for greater transparency, traceability, and accountability in global supply chains.

Chris Wong’s presentation focused on three critical pillars that are central to Otto International’s approach to sustainable supply chains:
- Buyer-Supplier Collaboration
A core element of Otto’s strategy is the strong collaboration between buyers and suppliers. Wong emphasized the importance of fostering open communication and partnership to achieve common sustainability goals. By working together, companies can overcome barriers and drive meaningful progress toward sustainability within the supply chain. - Supply Chain Traceability
Traceability was another major topic of discussion. Wong highlighted Otto’s efforts to ensure transparency across multiple tiers of its supply chain. In an era where consumers and regulatory bodies are demanding more visibility, ensuring traceability helps to verify claims about sustainability and ethical sourcing. - Data Accuracy and ESG Reporting
Finally, Wong addressed the growing emphasis on accurate data collection and reporting for ESG metrics. With increased scrutiny on corporate practices, having reliable data is crucial for businesses to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Otto International places a strong emphasis on data accuracy, ensuring that their ESG reports reflect true performance and areas for improvement.