The African Regional Standard (ARS) on Sustainable Cocoa, published in June 2021 by the African Organisation for Standardisation (ARSO), aims to promote the production of sustainable cocoa beans. This initiative responds to the growing demand for sustainably produced cocoa from consuming countries. The Standard is based on the principle of continuous improvement and addresses the social, economic and environmental aspects of sustainable cocoa.
This briefing outlines how the African Regional Standard on Sustainable Cocoa's requirements concerning child labour and forced labour align with the EU Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. It provides an overview of practical actions companies can implement to assist cooperatives in meeting the ARS 1000-1 requirements.
