Supplier Code of Conduct
A supplier code of conduct is a document setting out the ethical, labour, safety and environmental standards an organisation expects its suppliers to uphold.
The code translates a buyer's values and legal obligations into clear expectations — covering anti-bribery, fair labour, health and safety, environmental responsibility and data protection. Suppliers are usually asked to acknowledge and comply with it as a condition of doing business, and it may be referenced in contracts and audits.
A code of conduct supports responsible and sustainable procurement by extending standards beyond the buyer's own walls into the supply chain. It works best when backed by monitoring — self-assessments, audits and corrective actions — rather than being treated as a one-off sign-off.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a supplier code of conduct?
- It is a document setting out the ethical, labour, safety and environmental standards an organisation expects its suppliers to uphold, usually acknowledged as a condition of trading.
- Why is a supplier code of conduct important?
- It extends a buyer's ethical and compliance standards into the supply chain, reduces reputational and legal risk, and provides a clear basis for audits and corrective action.
Related terms
Sustainable Procurement
Sustainable procurement is buying in a way that considers environmental, social and governance (ESG) impacts alongside cost and quality.
Read definitionAnti-Bribery & Corruption (ABC)
Anti-bribery and corruption (ABC) refers to the policies and controls that prevent improper payments and undue influence in business dealings, including procurement.
Read definitionCode of Ethics
A code of ethics is a set of principles that defines the honest, fair and professional behaviour expected of everyone involved in procurement.
Read definitionExplore related across the knowledge graph
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Operating model · diagram
- 01
AI-first software
AI-first procurement software for long-tail spend
- 02
Live marketplace
A live B2B marketplace
- 03
Human services
Human sourcing and support
- 04
Optional add-on
Fulfilment support for merchants
