Germany’s Act on Corporate Due Diligence in Supply Chains (Lieferkettengesetz) is a significant legislative milestone in promoting ethical business practices. This law holds German companies with at least 3,000 employees responsible for their supply chains, ensuring transparency, sustainability, and human rights. By addressing risks related to labor rights, human rights, and environmental concerns, this act seeks to create a more responsible business environment.
Key Features and Importance: The Act on Corporate Due Diligence in Supply Chains emphasizes transparency, collaboration, and reporting. It compels companies to conduct thorough due diligence, assess risks in their supply chains, and mitigate any identified issues. By doing so, the law aims to protect human rights, prevent labor abuses, and minimize environmental harm. Compliance with this act is crucial not only for legal reasons but also for reputational benefits and aligning with international expectations for corporate responsibility.
Steps for Compliance: To comply with the Act on Corporate Due Diligence in Supply Chains, companies should conduct comprehensive due diligence assessments, establish clear policies and procedures, engage with suppliers, implement reporting mechanisms, and commit to continuous improvement. By actively addressing potential risks, collaborating with suppliers, and adopting sustainable practices, businesses can ensure compliance and contribute to a more ethical and sustainable supply chain ecosystem.
Germany’s Act on Corporate Due Diligence in Supply Chains sets a significant precedent for responsible business conduct. By holding companies accountable for their supply chains and promoting transparency, sustainability, and human rights, this legislation plays a crucial role in fostering ethical business practices. Compliance with this act is not only a legal requirement but also an opportunity for companies to strengthen their reputation, demonstrate commitment to social and environmental responsibility, and contribute to a more sustainable global marketplace.

Source: https://www.bafa.de/DE/Lieferketten/Multilinguales_Angebot/multilinguales_angebot_node.html#:~:text=The%20Act%20on%20Corporate%20Due,diligence%20in%20their%20supply%20chains.