Strengthening due diligence in China: A new methodology

Research has shown that workers in China’s garment export sector face regular and often systemic violations of their labour rights, including unpaid wages and non-payment of social security benefits. This is exacerbated by a steady stream of factory closures and relocations from high-wage areas to low-wage areas. Inevitably, Chinese workers are bearing the burden of these corporate decisions. As factories close or relocate, workers have been unable to collect wages, benefits, or compensation owed them.

Given this context, the role of international companies that source from China is crucial when it comes to promoting respect for workers’ rights. International norms require that companies respect the human rights of workers in their supply chain, and act with appropriate due diligence to identify and prevent or mitigate abuse. Supply chain information connecting workers and workplaces with identified international companies can catalyse effective action by the companies.

SOMO and China Labour Bulletin (CLB) brought together their expertise to develop a research methodology that generates new data on the supply chains of the garment sector in China. Research and analysis conducted has brought to light key labour rights challenges that Chinese workers in international are faced with. Additionally, the research confirms the dynamic nature of supply chains as companies are increasingly questioning their reliance on Chinese manufacturing. In the session SOMO and CLB will present their findings and discuss how robust due diligence can enhance protection for the rights of Chinese workers in international supply chains.