This panel will explore how production relocalization strategies, green trade corridors, and Voluntary Sustainability Standards (VSS) can work together to drive the decarbonization of global value chains while promoting fair and inclusive trade. Production relocalization — leveraging regional competitive advantages in green energy, critical resources, and industrial innovation — offers emerging economies in Latin America, Africa, and Asia a strategic path to consolidate low-carbon production and attract sustainable investments.

The development of green trade corridors can connect these regions through low-carbon logistics, aligned trade frameworks, and shared sustainability commitments. At the same time, VSS can help ensure that the new wave of industrial transformation aligns with environmental protection, social equity, and climate justice, opening access to international markets and raising sustainability performance.

With the participation of regional climate foundations, industry leaders, and international institutions, the session will examine cooperation, investment, and governance models that enable the responsible expansion of green trade. The dialogue will highlight how sustainability standards can mitigate risks for producers, ensure inclusive participation in green value chains, and strengthen the credibility of production relocalization as a tool for a just industrial transition and global climate ambition.

Rodrigo Fagundes Cezar, Researcher at the School of International Relations (FGV RI), will speak on the panel.