In May, we recognize World Trade Month as a time to celebrate the importance of international trade for economic growth, job creation, and strengthening global economies. And compliance with social responsibility is an indispensable component in successful global trade. Regulations now mandate specific behavior to protect human rights, due diligence, and transparency in global supply chains. Buyers are aligning their supplier codes with international standards on human rights.

It is no coincidence that Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP) leads with compliance with laws and workplace regulations in its 12 Principios, which govern all its work. Because it is the first condition that businesses can use to measure their ability to succeed, or fail, in any country.

Principle 1 ensures production facilities comply with laws and regulations in all locations where they conduct business. This will cover all labor and employment laws of those jurisdictions, as well as laws governing the conduct of business in general, including rules and standards of ethics dealing with corruption and transparency, and any relevant environmental laws. WRAP experts know it is not just simple compliance actions; they understand the importance of compliance with laws and workplace regulations including rules and standards of ethics dealing with corruption and transparency, and any relevant environmental laws.

That has led to an increasing demand among brands and retailers for WRAP certification. WRAP certifies facilities in 45 countries and ensures safe working conditions for nearly 4 million people. That has demonstrated the strategic vision and insight into the future of a social responsibility program born 25 years ago.

Compliance with laws and workplace regulations is not just a prerequisite for a business, it is critical to ensuring companies safeguard the environment in which they work and the people that underpin their success. WRAP’s work is more necessary than ever as we gain a deeper understanding that adherence to laws and regulations is intrinsic to a functional supply chain and successful global trade.

Hong Dinh serves as WRAP’s Representante de Vietnam. Hong Dinh joined WRAP in 2018 and brings over 16 years of experience in social compliance.