Supply chain due diligence: China’s role in the international debate and setting of standards

The debate on mandatory human rights supply chain due diligence is gaining momentum. Legal regulations are discussed extensively both at the international level as well as in Germany. In this debate, one country in particular is getting attention: China. According to some industry associations and symphatizing politicians, if Germany or the EU were to introduce a mandatory supply chain due diligence law, the ‘level-playing field’ would be lost. Chinese companies would be placed in an even more competitive position. ut the concepts of supply chain due diligence and corporate social responsibility are being discussed in the People’s Republic as well. With a special focus on the mining sector, this fact sheet presents some of the cornerstones of these debates and develops proposals for a proactive cooperation policy.