Sedex (short for Supplier Ethical Data Exchange) is one of the world’s leading platforms for companies to manage and improve working conditions in global supply chains. It provides businesses with the tools, data, and resources needed to operate responsibly and make informed sourcing decisions.
Sedex is not a certification but a membership organisation that facilitates the sharing of ethical supply chain information across industries. Its core focus is to promote ethical trade, protect workers’ rights, and encourage environmental and social responsibility.
Key Features of Sedex
SMETA Audits
Sedex members often undergo SMETA audits (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit)—one of the most widely used social auditing formats in the world. These audits evaluate:
Labour standards
Health and safety
Environmental performance
Business ethics
Data Sharing Platform
Suppliers and buyers use the Sedex platform to:
Share ethical audit results
Track corrective actions
Manage risks across their supply chain
Risk Management & Transparency
Sedex helps companies assess and manage risks in their supply chain by providing insight into ethical practices and areas of concern.
What Sedex Membership Means
If a supplier or manufacturer is Sedex-registered, or Sedex-audited, it means they are:
Committed to transparency in their operations
Taking steps to improve working conditions and ethical standards
Open to regular third-party assessments and accountability
Why It Matters
In today’s market customers, retailers and regulators are demanding ethical sourcing and social responsibility. Sedex enables businesses to:
Meet ethical trade requirements from global retailers and brands
Demonstrate social compliance in tenders and audits
Support the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
In Summary
Sedex is a globally recognised platform for ethical and responsible business practices. It supports companies in ensuring their supply chains are free from exploitation, unsafe working conditions and unethical practices—fostering transparency and trust from factory to customer.
