BCI certification double update! CoC MAC v1.2 officially takes effect+new logo usage, must read execution guide for enterprises
Two key updates to BCI certification have been implemented, affecting all certification stakeholders!
Recently, the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) officially released a dual major update - "Chain of Custody Monitoring and Certification Procedures (CoC MAC) v1.2", which will take full effect from November 1, 2025. At the same time, the brand image upgrade will be launched, restoring the original name of the "Better Cotton Initiative" and adopting a new logo. This article will break down the core changes, transition rules, and execution points to help stakeholders quickly comply!
01. CoC MAC v1.2 takes effect, with 3 major core changes and clear transition rules
As the core standard for BCI supply chain monitoring and certification, the implementation of version 1.2 will directly affect the entire process of certification application, audit execution, and transaction entry. The key details are as follows:
1. Scope of application and transition rules (must see! Avoid pitfalls)
✅ Mandatory effective date: November 1, 2025
✅ Specific execution standards:
Certification applications submitted on or after November 1st must be reviewed in accordance with v1.2;
Audit initiated on or after November 1st (including remote/on-site) must use v1.2;
For audits initiated before November 1st, v1.1 can continue to be used, but certification must be completed and obtained before November 1st; If the certificate is not obtained within the deadline, it is necessary to switch to v1.2 and restart the process;
• ❌ It is strictly prohibited to mix two versions for the same review!
2. Core terms update (affecting operational efficiency)
Relaxation of restrictions on multi venue certification: Cancel the restrictions of "affiliated venues must be located within 50 kilometers of the central functional department" and "same country restrictions". Multinational/cross regional multi venue enterprises can be certified uniformly, and only need to be audited by the same certification body, greatly reducing compliance costs;
• Clause number adjustment: The clause numbers for multiple venue standards have been updated. Auditors should pay attention to the unsynchronized changes in the audit report/checklist in the INTACT system, and ensure that the corresponding clauses are consistent when entering information;
New regulations for BCP transaction entry:
Purchase transaction: must be confirmed within 60 calendar days after entering into theBCP system;
Sales transaction: Complete entry within 60 calendar days after shipment;
Transaction cancellation: Submit a cancellation request within 30 calendar days after entering the information;
Physical transaction: The buyer needs to confirm the transaction after actually receiving the product.
02. BCI brand fully upgraded, logo usage+compliance requirements for promotion
On October 7, 2025, BCI announced that the brand will return to its original name of "Better Cotton Initiative" and simultaneously adopt a new visual image. The transition period will be until January 1, 2026, and the specific specifications are as follows:
1. Rules for using the new logo
✅ Immediate activation: Certification bodies and partner companies need to download the new logo (including the brown version of "BCI Better Cotton Initiative") as soon as possible for use on official websites, promotional materials, business communication, and other scenarios;
✅ Old logo discontinuation deadline: After January 1, 2026, it is strictly prohibited to continue using the original "Better Cotton" logo;
✅ Certificate specification: Existing certificates that have been issued do not need to be updated and can retain the old logo; Certificates issued after November 1st must use the new brown logo.
2. Promotion and compliance requirements
• It is necessary to comprehensively verify the promotional copy and service introduction against BCI's latest "Claims Framework" to ensure that all promotional statements comply with BCI requirements;
New brand assets (logo, visual specifications) can be downloaded through BCI Knowledge Hub and must strictly follow the usage guidelines (no stretching, deformation, or color modification allowed).
03. Implementation Guidelines for Enterprise/Certification Body Implementation (to be promoted in three stages)
1. Urgent action (to be completed within one week)
Download the v1.2 standard file and new logo, and update the internal database;
Organize specialized training for auditors and business teams, with a focus on mastering changes in clause numbers, new regulations for multi venue certification, and time limits for BCP transaction entry;
• Sort out the certification projects in hand: For audits that were not completed before November 1st, develop an urgent plan or switch to v1.2.
2. Mid term implementation (November December)
Update promotional materials, official websites, contract templates, etc. in batches, gradually replacing old logos to avoid waste (the principle of "new materials entering the warehouse, old materials being used first" can be used to digest inventory);
Optimize the internal audit process: adjust the sampling plan and audit route planning for the new regulations on multi venue certification;
Establish a BCP transaction entry verification mechanism to avoid overdue and missed entries.
3. Long term compliance before January 2026
• Complete the replacement of old logos throughout the entire scene to ensure no omissions;
Regularly compare with the latest BCI standards and conduct internal compliance self inspections;
Maintain standard updates and training records for BCI verification.
Compliance is an opportunity, precise implementation wins the initiative
This BCI double major update not only standardizes the certification process, but also provides convenience for enterprises to expand their business (such as relaxing multi venue certification). For certification bodies, quickly adapting to v1.2 standards and new brand specifications is the key to maintaining service qualifications and winning customertrust; For enterprises, timely adjustment of processes can avoid certification delays and seize compliance dividends.
ASCP has fully completed v1.2 standard training and new brand material updates, and will rely on TE and BCI core qualifications and rich audit experience to provide customers with efficient and compliant certification support. If you need to obtain standard files, download guidelines for new logos, or consult on landing, please feel free to leave a message for communication!
Contact Information
Mobile phone: 18562812666
Phone: 0532-66982347
Email: info@ascpservices.com
Long press the QR code below to directly add customer service WeChat.