Responsible Global Trade

To be successful in global trade today, one must have more than a good product to sell along with a willing customer.  While business would not succeed without that critical relationship, in this complex world being a good corporate citizen is also an important factor.  A corporate responsibility program can provide a competitive advantage that helps create markets for products, deepens affinity with current and potential customers and can be a “license to operate.” It can also be powerful with attracting, retaining and motivating employees.  With an ever expanding middle class in many countries including China and India, global business potential is huge.  As countries, businesses and consumers become more aware of the world around them, and its many social and environmental challenges, the expectations of how a company conducts business, and gives back, are higher.  Being a good corporate citizen does not have to be difficult, but you do need a strategy and good execution.  In January, I was asked to write an article for Singapore’s Business Times titled Doing Good Pays. It gives a high level overview of some of the elements of a good CSR program.  As our opportunities for international trade expand, we must do so responsibly, for the sake of society, the environment and the bottom line. World Trade Week