Tripartism and social dialogue

ILO supports Thai auto sector to navigate evolving Human Rights Due Diligence environment

Joint efforts seek to strengthen responsible business practices and global competitiveness of the automotive industry.

31 October 2023

BANGKOK, Thailand (ILO News) – The International Labour Organization (ILO) is working alongside the Thai automotive sector to help it navigate the evolving landscape of international legal frameworks centred on Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD).

Since 2023, the ILO’s Resilient, Inclusive and Sustainable Supply Chains Asia (RISSC) project, funded by the Government of Japan has supported efforts to further strengthen its supply chain governance in the sector.

A research study identifying challenges and opportunities for industry improvement relating to global responsible business practices together with recommendations for stakeholder action is near completion and should be finalised by the end of the year.

Some 70 representatives of government agencies, employers' and workers' organizations and the automotive industry met in Bangkok on 27 October 2023 to discuss and provide feedback on the initial study results.

They also identified industry and training needs in the sector, as well as areas of policy advocacy necessary to advance responsible business practices, in line with national laws, international labour standards and evolving supply chain due diligence requirements.

In 2024, the RISSC project in Thailand will use the research findings to develop specialized tools for stakeholders in the automotive supply chain that support industry priorities and interests.

David Williams, Manager of the RISSC Project said, “The main aim of this research is to look at the current situation in the sector, analyse key gaps and trends then agree on areas we can work together to strengthen it. By doing so, the Thai automotive sector can boost its sustainability profile and improve its competitiveness in global markets.”

The automotive manufacturing industry is an important part of the Thai economy. It is the biggest auto exporter in ASEAN and the 10th largest in the world. The industry is dominated by multinational enterprises, especially Japanese and European, with a huge supply chain across the country, comprising both national and international suppliers.

For further information please contact:

Mr Noppavut Pravat
National Project Coordinator
Email: [email protected]

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