摘要
This report examines the evolving relationship between voluntary sustainability standards (VSS) and emerging mandatory due diligence regulations, asking how these frameworks interact and what their implications are for producers in developing countries. Drawing on a wide-ranging review of regulatory developments, the report maps different types of due diligence measures and analyses their alignment with VSS across substantive, procedural, and stakeholder-related dimensions. It uses comparative analysis to highlight overlaps, tensions, and gaps, and incorporates insights from existing research and examples to assess potential trade and socio-economic impacts. Findings reveal both opportunities and risks: while due diligence measures can build on VSS foundations, they also risk creating exclusionary effects and increased burdens for producers in developing countries. The report recommends greater harmonisation between standards, additional support for vulnerable actors, fairer value distribution mechanisms, and stronger inclusion of producers in decision-making processes.