China challenges Western supply chain rules and standards

China is actively working to reshape global supply chain standards, transitioning from a participant in Western-led compliance systems to a proactive rule-maker. This shift comes in response to increased Western scrutiny, such as the U.S. Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act and emerging European forced labor regulations.

In a significant escalation, China’s Ministry of Commerce has barred Chinese organizations from cooperating with the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA), a major global corporate social responsibility initiative. Beijing has accused the RBA of complicity in U.S. sanctions regarding alleged forced labor in Xinjiang. This move challenges the influence of the RBA, whose Responsible Minerals Initiative is a recognized due diligence scheme in the EU.

Chinese industry associations, including the China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Importers and Exporters (CCCMC), are developing alternative due-diligence frameworks. These new standards focus on state oversight and information security, contrasting with Western models that prioritize transparency and independent assessment. China’s 2026 Regulation on Outbound Investment further signals this intent by calling for active participation in developing international investment rules.