Global supply chains are growing significantly larger and more complex for many companies across the globe. At the same time, the regulatory environment is quickly evolving, requiring these companies to have more visibility into the behaviors and practices of their suppliers. As a result, elements of risk, security, social accountability, environmental sustainability, and market forces are combining to raise the stakes for enterprises seeking the efficiencies of scale that come from operating internationally.

Of course, not all suppliers are created equal, and being able to help clients separate the good from the bad is one reason why a business assurance partner such as Intertek is so important. Testing, inspection, and audit (TIC) agencies such as Intertek are embedded in many countries—working day-to-day within the supply chain to manage risk and improve supplier performance. Our role as an intermediary between the enterprise and the supplier provides better insight into risks of procurement, fulfillment, local (and international) labor laws, and environmental concerns.

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