Summary
This report focuses on developments in due diligence regulatory initiatives in global trade governance for sustainability and their interactions with voluntary sustainability standards. It draws from the current ongoing work and research findings of both academic researchers and policymakers, as well as discussions which took place during the UNFSS Academic Advisory Council Annual Meeting on 12 October 2023. It takes stock of current questions and concerns about due diligence developments and their implications for international trade, for the role of VSS in GVCs sustainability governance, and for developing countries.