Green Export

Due Diligence EURATEX Position Paper

Time: 2017

By: EURATEX

The report reflects the position of the European Apparel and Textile Confederation (EURATEX) regarding the growing efforts of the European Commission and EU Member States to establish a mandatory supply chain due diligence framework. In the context of a global textile and apparel industry facing increasing sustainability pressures, overproduction challenges, and the socioeconomic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic, EURATEX expresses its support for existing international standards, particularly the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs) and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance.

However, to ensure practical implementation and safeguard the competitiveness of European businesses—especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which often face constraints in resources and bargaining power—EURATEX proposes five key recommendations. First, it advocates for a harmonized EU-wide approach to create a level playing field and eliminate legal inconsistencies among Member States. Second, it emphasizes the principle of proportionality, including comprehensive assessments of economic and social impacts, the reduction of administrative burdens, the introduction of a transition period of at least four years, and the exclusion of civil liability provisions. Third, it calls for special consideration of SMEs by limiting the primary scope of application to large companies and requiring only “reasonable efforts” from smaller businesses. Fourth, it promotes a flexible “smart mix” approach that combines regulatory measures with incentives such as tax benefits, access to finance, and trade preferences, while recognizing existing voluntary industry standards as evidence of compliance. Finally, it stresses the importance of practical implementation that takes into account differences in company size, sourcing models, and the actual capacities of businesses across the value chain.

Through these recommendations, the report serves as the collective voice of the European textile and apparel industry, contributing to the development of sustainability policies that balance responsible business conduct with economic stability and competitiveness.

The English version of the report is attached below:

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