New 'agent' training launches in Bangladesh

We have developed a brand new training programme especially for agents.

The training was launched in Dhaka, Bangladesh earlier this month in partnership with the Bangladesh Cotton Association (BCA) and supported by the Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA).

More than 40 local agents took part in the two day, interactive session, which focused on the responsibilities of the agent under a cotton contract, looking at the behaviour of the cotton market, the application of ICA Bylaws & Rules and promoting good trading practice. The training, which was held at BTMA's head office in Dhaka, was delivered by Kai Hughes (ICA Managing Director) and Derek Tanner (DAT Arbitration & Consultancy).

Antonio Esteve, ICA President, who opened the training, explains: "Bringing agents into the ICA community is a very important and positive step forward. Agents play a critical role in the supply chain. It is vital that parties feel confident that their agents can act legally and responsibly. They must have a good knowledge of the ICA Bylaws & Rules and be able to advise their clients of their responsibilities and rights in the event of a dispute."

In his remarks, BCA President, Muhammad Ayub said: "BCA is the only Government recognised trade body to represent cotton agents and it is trying hard to establish a useful trade practice covered by a legal and responsible framework. The two-day extensive training workshop on ICA Bylaws & Rules is a bold step forward in achieving this practice. We are thankful to the ICA for making it successful. The agent membership category will make agents confident and responsible to act within the ICA framework."

In addition to the training, the ICA will be launching a dedicated membership category for agents later this year. Antonio adds:  "The ICA's major guiding principle is the fulfillment of contracts. One way we aim to promote this principle is by expanding our membership. As ICA members, agents will be expected to uphold the ICA's principles and defer from doing business with any parties that have failed to honour a contract and are listed on the default list. Members that do not fulfil their contractual obligations, face being expelled from the Association. We want to create a safe trading environment and we believe that enabling agents to become ICA members will take us a step closer."

Further training is planned to take place in July in Sao Paulo, Brazil.  All agents attending the training can apply for certification and their companies will be eligible to become ICA members.