Chapter I Paragraph 2

Obeying domestic laws is the first obligation of enterprises. The Guidelines are not a substitute for, nor should they be considered to, override domestic law and regulation. Failure of governments to uphold the principles and standards consistent with the Guidelines or their associated international commitments does not diminish the expectation that enterprises observe the Guidelines. While the Guidelines extend beyond the law in many cases, they should not and are not intended to place an enterprise in situations where it faces conflicting requirements. However, in countries where domestic laws and regulations conflict with the principles and standards of the Guidelines, enterprises should seek ways to honour such principles and standards to the fullest extent which does not place them in violation of domestic law.