“The Good Cashmere Standard plays a crucial role in improving the welfare of China’s cashmere goats”
FIGO LI
Project Manager for Animal Welfare at LRQA
(formerly Elevate)
Figo Li, a project manager for animal welfare at LRQA (formerly Elevate), is a well-respected specialist on cashmere goats and animal welfare in China who has travelled to many cashmere farms in Inner Mongolia for verification purposes over the past two years. In this interview, he discusses the topic of animal welfare in China and what role GCS plays in improving the welfare of China’s cashmere goats.
Mr Li, can you tell us a little about the living conditions of cashmere goats in Inner Mongolia?
The majority of cashmere goats in Inner Mongolia are raised on family farms, each with their own pastures. According to Chinese government regulations, the number of cashmere goats allowed per mu (roughly equivalent to 0.07 hectares) varies depending on the ecological grade of the pasture and ranges from one goat per 15 mu to one goat per 30 mu. Apart from the grazing ban period, which typically lasts one to three months between April and June, the goats have regular access to the pasture for approximately six to eight hours per day. The Inner Mongolian goats are well looked after in terms of diet and hydration. In addition to grazing on the pasture, herders supplement the goats’ diet with storable fodder such as corn, alfalfa, sunflower seeds, and mineral supplements. During the winter when grass is scarce, herders stock up on hay feed to ensure the goats remain well fed.
How does the Inner Mongolian climate influence the keeping of cashmere goats?
Inner Mongolia has low rainfall and a diverse landscape characterised by grassland and steppes. Cashmere goats are highly adaptable and can thrive in all types of grasslands. Most farms provide goat sheds and shelters to protect the goats from wind and rain. The majority of farms have adequate basic infrastructure, and the Chinese government has provided economic and policy support to these farms.
How are the goats protected against animal epidemics and diseases?
Due to government regulations, the vaccination of cashmere goats is managed effectively. Vaccinations against diseases such as peste des petits ruminants (PPR) and foot and mouth disease (FMD) are mandated by the state and are available free of charge. Herders may also choose to have other vaccines administered to their goats, such as for goat pox. In case of illness, local veterinarians provide guidance and treatment, either through telephone consultations or onsite visits. Herders keep common medicines in stock and follow the veterinarians’ instructions for goat treatment. In summary, cashmere goats in Inner Mongolia are considered valuable assets and often regarded as part of the herders’ families. As such, herders take great care to ensure the well-being and quality of life of their goats.
How strongly is animal welfare enshrined in Chinese law?
Currently, China does not have a specific animal welfare law in place. However, there are numerous local animal welfare regulations. Although a national animal welfare law is yet to be implemented, there are currently about 70 animal welfare standards regarding pigs, cattle, dairy cows, sheep, goats, hens, broiler chickens, deer, and waterfowl. Since 2018, the development of these standards has entered a rapid-growth phase, with an average of 30 relevant standards being issued each year. This indicates that the system of farm animal welfare standards in China is progressing at a fast pace. In 2023, the country introduced its first national standard dedicated to animal welfare. Titled “Welfare Criteria for Animals to be Slaughtered”, it is a nationally recommended standard that sets requirements for the welfare of slaughter animals, including goats. Another national standard, “Welfare on Killing Animals for Disease Control Purposes”, has also been implemented. Considering the significant market share and international status of China’s cashmere industry, cashmere goat welfare legislation may receive particular attention in the near future. Market demand should drive the establishment of relevant laws and regulations in a timely manner in order to meet the requirements of the international market.
How important is an animal’s right to species-appropriate treatment and husbandry to the Chinese public?
In my opinion, animal protection holds great significance in Chinese culture and education. Traditional teachings emphasise the virtue of “仁Ren” (benevolence), which encompasses the values of humanity, goodness, and a compassionate heart. “A benevolent person loves others and cherishes all things.” Here, things include all plants and animals. From the necessity of human survival to the teachings of Confucius and Mencius, there is a deep-rooted belief in caring for animals with benevolence and love. Throughout China’s history, every major dynasty has implemented systems or decrees for animal protection.
Has the attitude of cashmere suppliers and cashmere goat herders changed in recent years?
Based on my experience with GCS verification, I have observed several positive developments over the years. Firstly, Chinese suppliers participating in the verification process have progressively become more familiar with the standard’s requirements. At the beginning, they may not have focussed on the living conditions of the goats, but now, they have gained profound insights into the goats’ welfare and are actively assisting herders in improving animal welfare practices. Cashmere producers have shifted their mindset, adopting a more holistic perspective that takes harmony between animals, the environment, and human beings into consideration. Although all of the herders already took good care of their goats, being introduced to a scientific approach to to animal welfare made them aware of certain aspects of animal welfare that could be improved but had gone unnoticed. Through the establishment of the first GCS model farm, herders have already gained a better understanding of and acceptance for GCS. This has also sparked an enthusiasm for learning among neighbouring herders. As GCS verification continues to develop, it is expected to impact more suppliers and herders in the future. Thus, GCS will continue to play a crucial role in improving the welfare of China’s cashmere goats.
“The Good Cashmere Standard plays a crucial role in improving the welfare of China’s cashmere goats”
FIGO LI
Project Manager for Animal Welfare at LRQA
(formerly Elevate)