Vote on Friday

Zadic insists on Kocher’s yes to supply chain law

Justice Minister Alma Zadic (Greens)

(Bild: APA/Georg Hochmuth)

It is still unclear whether Austria will vote in favor of the EU Supply Chain Act on Friday. Justice Minister Alma Zadic (Greens) has now called on Economics Minister Martin Kocher (ÖVP) to show his true colors and "declare his support for this important European project."

"We cannot afford to listen to old thinking that seeks flimsy reasons as to why there should be no improvements here," said Zadic. The EU Supply Chain Act stipulates that large companies will be held accountable if they use child or forced labor outside the EU, for example. They must also draw up plans to ensure that the Paris climate targets are met.

EU companies that profit from child and forced labor outside the EU could be held accountable in the future (symbolic image).

(Bild: AFP)

NGOs and environmental organizations in favour
Zadic is convinced that this would create fair competitive conditions and strengthen small, regional companies. On Monday, numerous environmental protection organizations, NGOs and some political actors had already spoken out in favour of the Supply Chain Act. They spoke of respect for human rights, better working conditions and greater prosperity in the global South.

Chamber of Commerce against
The Chamber of Commerce has once again spoken out against the law. "To a large extent, this cannot be imposed on companies," said Harald Mahrer, President of the Chamber of Commerce. "Let's do what is feasible, where we can make a meaningful contribution." He also referred to declining competitiveness, high costs and regulations.

The black-blue coalition in Upper Austria has also spoken out against the Supply Chain Act. It would weaken the economy.