The ICA Bremen Quality Expert Programme continues to enhance the global cotton industry by building an international network of cotton quality specialists. It aims to promote knowledge sharing, enhance technical skills, improve industry services, and create a platform to raise standards and ensure consistency in cotton classification and testing.
Currently, ICA Bremen has 35 certified Quality Experts representing 16 countries.
The programme includes two categories of certification:
- Manual Classing
- Instrument Testing
Application and Certification Process
Candidates interested in becoming an ICA Bremen Quality Expert must complete the Quality Expert application form, available on the ICA Bremen website. After reviewing the applicant’s business profile, ICA Bremen arranges a meeting with the candidate to build mutual understanding and assess their knowledge of cotton classing and/or testing through a Q&A session. This process helps establish a clear and efficient understanding between the applicant and the ICA Bremen team on quality-related topics.
Following the meeting, ICA Bremen may recommend the candidate for certification to the Certification Advisory Committee for review, before seeking final approval from the Board.
Continuing Professional Development
To maintain certification standards and ensure ongoing industry engagement, all Quality Experts are required to complete a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) assessment every two years. This process confirms continued involvement in the cotton industry and commitment to maintaining up-to-date technical knowledge.
Upon successful completion, certification is renewed for a further two-year term. The latest assessment was conducted at the end of 2025, and the new list of Quality Experts for 2026–2027 is now available.
Find out more about the Quality Expert Programme here >