A national programme supporting sustainable South African cotton — from the farmers who grow it to the ginneries that process it.
South Africa’s cotton industry is built on the quality and care of its growers. The South African Cotton Standard (ZACS) gives that work a trusted, shared way to be recognised.
By joining ZACS, you become part of a national cotton sustainability standard and gain a clear view of where your farm stands today. As the programme grows, it is designed to open doors to wider market recognition, buyer preference and access to premium markets. You also join a community of growers committed to producing cotton responsibly.
ZACS is a national cotton sustainability standard, owned by the industry and governed by Cotton SA. It sets out the principles of responsible, sustainable cotton production and gives growers a straightforward way to show that they meet them.
Once you are registered, you sign in to manage your profile, record your production data, complete your self-assessment and track your progress against the standard — all in one place.
Getting involved is simple. It starts with an expression of interest and ends with you registered on the platform, ready to begin.
Submit the short expression of interest form on this website.
Your expression of interest is approved or declined.
Activate your profile via a secure email link and apply online.
Cotton SA reviews your application.
Get your unique ZACS number, confirm your details and sign in.
To learn more about the standard, how the programme is governed and what is expected of growers, visit the About the programme page.
Submit your expression of interest in a few minutes — there is no cost to join.
Express Interest