Fair Trade And Fair Supply Chains

At RBGLP, we recognise the critical role businesses play in maintaining ethical supply chains and fostering fair trade practices. In Zambia, Africa, and the sub-region, we help organisations ensure compliance with fair trade principles, protect human rights, and meet environmental responsibilities in their supply chains.

The Issue

Across Africa, fair trade and supply chain integrity have become increasingly important for businesses operating in industries such as agriculture, mining, forestry, and manufacturing. Historically, many companies have voluntarily adopted measures to meet fair trade standards, uphold human rights, and safeguard the environment. These efforts are guided by frameworks such as the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

However, the global trend towards stricter regulatory requirements is also impacting African markets. For instance:

• Timber industry: Regulations such as the EU Timber Regulation highlight the importance of sustainable forestry, a critical issue in Zambia and the broader sub-region.
• Extractive industries: With Zambia’s reliance on mining, compliance with human rights and environmental protection frameworks is increasingly scrutinised.
• Agriculture: As a cornerstone of Zambia’s economy, the sector must adapt to evolving global trade practices, including those targeting unfair trade practices in supply chains.

As regional governments and trade blocs align with global standards, companies in Zambia and Africa must adapt to mandatory due diligence laws. This shift provides an opportunity for businesses to embrace ethical practices while ensuring regulatory compliance and maintaining their market competitiveness.

What We Do

RBGLP is a leading practice in advising companies on building and maintaining fair trade practices and implementing effective supply chain due diligence systems. We combine global best practices with a localised approach, ensuring our clients navigate regulatory complexities while fostering sustainable growth.

Our Services

• Supply Chain Transparency and Collaboration:
  We help clients develop transparent supply chain strategies, working closely with suppliers to ensure compliance with fair trade practices, human rights, and environmental standards.
• Regulatory Compliance:
  We assist in aligning with local, regional, and international regulations, including reporting requirements, due diligence documentation, and regulatory disclosures.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
  We support effective communication with regulators, consumer organisations, and industry associations to demonstrate compliance with fair trade and human rights standards.
• Sustainability and Social Impact:
  We advise on implementing sustainability principles and social impact strategies tailored to African contexts, ensuring businesses remain aligned with UN SDGs.
• Proactive Governance:
  We provide training and consultation to corporate boards and leadership teams on developing ESG-focused governance frameworks.

Our Impact

RBGLP has partnered with businesses across Zambia, Africa, and beyond to embed ethical practices in their supply chains. Our recent work includes:

• Advising Zambian agricultural exporters on compliance with fair trade certification requirements to meet European and global market standards.
• Supporting a mining company in Zambia to integrate supply chain due diligence practices aligned with the African Mining Vision and international frameworks.
• Assisting a regional food processing firm in developing reporting systems to comply with emerging ESG regulations in global markets.
• Providing training to forestry operators in Zambia on adhering to sustainable logging practices and meeting global due diligence standards.

Why Choose RBGLP?

With our deep understanding of Zambia and the African sub-region, coupled with expertise in global ESG and fair trade frameworks, RBGLP is uniquely positioned to guide businesses toward sustainable and ethical supply chain management.

Let us help you navigate the future of fair trade and supply chain compliance while contributing positively to Africa’s socio-economic and environmental development.