Building a sustainable supply chain: an analysis of corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices in the Chinese textile and apparel industry

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the development, achievements, and challenges of corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices in the Chinese textile and apparel industry. The determinants of CSR movement in the industry are discussed. The World Bank CSR Diamond Model based on stakeholder theory provides an analytical framework to address this complex issue in a systematic way. The relevant information and data were gathered from an extensive literature review of governmental, industrial and academic publications, and interviews. Overall, the tightening legal environment for CSR development has raised the cost of doing business in China in a short time. While forward‐looking companies are already taking CSR into account in their daily operations and strategic plans, some resistance to the execution and enforcement of CSR‐related laws and regulations have been witnessed. However, from a long‐term perspective, the CSR movement will benefit towards upgrading the industry and the healthy growth of China's economy, and contribute to the sustainable global textile and apparel supply chain.