Socially responsible business has become a major issue in international trade. Both retailers and suppliers on European markets face tough requirements not only in terms of quality and prices but social standards, too. Apart from the legal requirements, various sets of commercial requirements are emerging.

One of these is The Business Social Compliance Initiative, or BSCI. Endorsed by a broad group of European retailers, it can be applied to all consumer goods and agricultural products. Exporters from developing countries supplying to a BSCI member must meet its requirements. With the BSCI’s impact growing, compliance may provide good market opportunities.

The Business Social Compliance Initiative was developed by the Foreign Trade Association (FTA) which is a branch organization of European retailers.