Fair Trade And Fair Supply Chains
At RBGLP, we recognise the critical importance of fair trade and supply chain due diligence in driving sustainable business practices across Zambia, Africa, and beyond. We support our clients in acknowledging their responsibility to build, maintain, and monitor fair trade practices while implementing robust systems that ensure compliance with human rights and environmental protection standards.
The Issue
Supply chain due diligence has evolved from a voluntary practice to a regulatory necessity. While companies have historically engaged in fair trade and environmental protection efforts under frameworks such as the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), governments worldwide are now codifying these expectations into law.
In Africa, the extractive and agricultural sectors are particularly affected, with Zambia at the forefront of addressing human rights and environmental challenges in industries such as mining, timber, and agriculture. These sectors are not only crucial to Zambia’s economy but also highly susceptible to scrutiny over labour practices, deforestation, and sustainable land use.
Emerging global regulations are shaping the future of supply chain accountability:
- Conflict Minerals: Regulations targeting the responsible sourcing of minerals such as cobalt and copper, essential to Zambia’s mining sector.
- Labour Practices: Increasing focus on eradicating forced labour and improving conditions within agricultural and industrial supply chains.
- Sustainability: Expectations to reduce environmental impact through better resource management, waste reduction, and renewable practices.
What We Do
RBGLP offers a comprehensive suite of services to help clients implement fair trade practices and comply with supply chain due diligence requirements. Our expertise spans regulatory compliance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring that our clients can operate responsibly while maintaining competitive advantage.
Our Services Include:
- Supply Chain Transparency
- Assisting clients in developing systems to track and document supplier practices.
- Ensuring compliance with fair trade principles, human rights standards, and environmental protections.
- Regulatory Compliance
- Advising on compliance with local and regional laws, such as Zambia’s labour laws and environmental regulations.
- Helping clients align with global frameworks like the African Mining Vision and Agenda 2063.
- Risk Assessment and Reporting
- Conducting supply chain risk mapping to identify vulnerabilities and recommend mitigative actions.
- Assisting clients in meeting reporting requirements and documenting their compliance efforts.
- Stakeholder Communication
- Facilitating engagement with regulators, consumer protection organisations, and trade associations.
- Advising on communication strategies to demonstrate commitment to sustainability and fair trade principles.
- Sustainability Integration
- Supporting the adoption of best practices for sustainability, including waste management, carbon reduction, and social impact initiatives.
- Guiding clients on how to leverage their fair trade efforts to drive brand loyalty and stakeholder trust.
Our Approach
At RBGLP, we combine deep local knowledge with a global outlook to offer practical, business-oriented solutions tailored to the African context. Whether you are operating in Zambia’s mining sector, managing agricultural supply chains, or engaging in regional trade, we provide the expertise needed to address today’s challenges and seize tomorrow’s opportunities.
Why RBGLP?
- Local Expertise: In-depth understanding of Zambia’s regulatory landscape and its intersection with international frameworks.
- Holistic Approach: Comprehensive support across legal, environmental, and social dimensions of supply chain accountability.
- Commitment to Impact: A shared vision for advancing human rights, environmental protection, and sustainable development across the region.
Driving Positive Change Through Responsible Supply Chains
Multinational companies and local enterprises alike have immense potential to drive positive change through responsible supply chain practices. By committing to transparency, sustainability, and human rights, businesses can not only mitigate risks but also enhance their reputations and create long-term value.
At RBGLP, we are proud to partner with clients who are committed to making a meaningful impact. Together, we can build resilient supply chains that align with fair trade principles and contribute to a sustainable future for Zambia, Africa, and the global community.
Partner with RBGLP to strengthen your supply chain practices and lead in fair trade and sustainability efforts.