Vienna (OTS) – “The Chamber of Commerce is clearly committed to the sustainability of economic activity. However, the idea of ensuring this with a supply chain law in its current form is not a practical way to achieve this goal. Rather, the law would present companies with insoluble challenges that would massively weaken the European and domestic economy,” said Karlheinz Kopf, Secretary General of the Chamber of Commerce, on the occasion of the once again failed vote on a “completely inadequate draft” of the Supply Chain Act.
With 900 million supply relationships across Europe, the planned inclusion of indirect relationships would mean that practically every company would be responsible. Such a scope cannot be monitored, let alone managed, and is damaging to the economy,” said Kopf.
The actual goal of strengthening high ethical standards outside the EU would be undermined by a law that cannot be administered and ultimately would not improve the living conditions of people in emerging and developing countries. Excessive requirements, passing on of responsibility and widespread legal uncertainty are not suitable for effectively protecting human rights and avoiding environmental damage. “Sensible framework conditions for supplier relationships look different,” says Kopf. (PWK053)
Questions & Contact:
Sebastian Winter
Austrian Chamber of Commerce
Spokesperson for the Secretary General
T 0590900 4462
E sebastian.winter@wko.at
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