Possible Solutions to the German Supply Chain Law: Train Your Employees in Sustainability Management

Authors: Stefan Schmierer, Managing Partner | Karl Borgschulze (Managing Director, Sustainable Management at Consulting Service International Ltd.)

With the complex requirements of the new German supply chain due diligence law, an innovative approach between experienced partners is required to develop practical and workable solutions. The law affects all parties involved in global trade, making joint efforts essential to fulfil compliance requirements.

German Supply Chain Law Solutions Through Sustainability Management Training

In cooperation with our partner CSI‑Consulting Service International Ltd., we are working on solutions addressing the new requirements. CSI has developed a course in Sustainability Management relating to section 4 paragraph 3 of the law, which concerns the appointment of a responsible person for sustainability management.

The practice‑oriented course is accredited by a German university and can be delivered in English, in person, or online. It trains and certifies professionals in sustainability management, compliance requirements, and risk assessment across supply chains, enabling them to act as qualified Sustainability Managers within their organisations.

Companies with global operations benefit from training key staff in headquarters and international offices under the same framework, creating a consistent baseline for communication and compliance.

Grievance Mechanisms and Complaint Management

The establishment and maintenance of effective grievance mechanisms require coordinated solutions for complaint management, hotlines, and training of responsible personnel.

Grievance management is effective only when managers on the ground understand the requirements. Training and certifying grievance managers at key suppliers allow German supply chain law obligations to be implemented directly at factory level.

Long‑Term Risk Management and Digital Solutions

To manage due diligence obligations in the long term, product‑ and supply‑chain‑specific risks must be assessed and evaluated. Appropriate management systems should be established at German or European headquarters, not only to address the German law but also to prepare for upcoming EU‑level requirements.

Innovative software solutions developed by our partner are currently in advanced testing and are expected to become available to the market soon, supporting systematic risk management and compliance monitoring.

How Ravenscroft & Schmierer Can Help?

Developing effective German supply chain law solutions requires more than policy drafting. Ravenscroft & Schmierer advises companies on LkSG compliance strategy, organisational implementation, training programmes, grievance mechanisms, and preparation for EU‑level supply chain regulation.

If your organisation is seeking practical and sustainable compliance solutions, contact us to discuss your circumstances and available options.

FAQ: German Supply Chain Law Solutions

What does section 4 paragraph 3 of the German Supply Chain Law require?

It requires companies to designate a responsible person or function for monitoring compliance with supply chain due diligence obligations.

Why is sustainability management training important under the LkSG?

Training ensures that responsible personnel understand compliance duties, risk assessment, and reporting obligations across global supply chains.

Are grievance mechanisms mandatory under the German Supply Chain Law?

Yes. Companies must establish complaint procedures allowing affected persons and whistle‑blowers to report risks and violations.

Do German supply chain obligations extend to suppliers abroad?

Yes. Obligations apply to direct and indirect suppliers worldwide.

How can Ravenscroft & Schmierer assist with German supply chain law compliance?

Ravenscroft & Schmierer advises on compliance frameworks, organisational implementation, training strategies, and risk management under the LkSG.

Does Ravenscroft & Schmierer advise on grievance mechanisms and whistle‑blower systems?

Yes. We assist with designing, implementing, and reviewing grievance and complaint management systems across supply chains.

Can Ravenscroft & Schmierer help prepare for EU‑level supply chain regulation?

Yes. We advise on aligning German LkSG compliance with forthcoming EU supply chain due diligence requirements.

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Disclaimer: This publication is general in nature and is not intended to constitute legal advice. You should seek professional advice before taking any action in relation to the matters dealt with in this publication.

For specific advice about your situation, please contact:

Stefan Schmierer 

Managing Partner

+852 2388 3899

sschmierer@rs-lawyers.com.hk