THE HAGUE, 05/10/06 - The economic affairs ministry has developed 'tool-kits' for Dutch companies that want to operate 'socially responsible' businesses in six emerging markets.

The tool-kits are for Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Russia and South Africa. They have been developed for "Dutch companies that ask themselves how they can keep international standards high in countries where social and environmental legislation is underdeveloped or where it is not upheld." The tool-kits include country information and practical examples of "businesses that have succeeded in combining successful business with caring for people and the environment."

The tool-kits are based on Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidelines for multinational companies, according to the ministry. The agriculture and environment ministries and organisations such as Oxfam Novib and the Agency for International Business and Cooperation (EVD) are also involved in the project.