Supply Chain Audit
A supply chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and in today’s regulated environment, even a single compliance failure can trigger regulatory action, loss of certifications, and significant reputational and financial damage.
At AKW Consultants, we provide independent supply chain audit and assurance services to verify that sourcing, processing, and distribution practices are fully traceable, responsibly managed, and compliant with UAE regulations and global standards. We specialise in audits for precious metals, gemstones, and critical minerals, supporting organisations in meeting requirements under frameworks such as LBMA, RJC, and OECD responsible sourcing guidelines, while strengthening trust with regulators, banks, and international stakeholders.
Challenges
Common Supply Chain Audit Findings
Incomplete Documentation
Missing or inconsistent KYC files, chain-of-custody records, and supplier due diligence documentation weaken audit credibility and regulatory compliance.
Policy–Practice Gaps
Formal policies may exist, but without proper implementation or enforcement, operational practices often fail to meet required compliance standards.
Weak Audit Trails
Fragmented or disconnected records across procurement, logistics, and compliance systems reduce traceability and limit the ability to verify transactions end-to-end.
Unaddressed Risk Indicators
Early warning signs related to supplier risk, sanctions exposure, or ESG issues are often not escalated or acted upon in a timely manner.
Excessive Dependence on High-Risk Suppliers
Over-reliance on suppliers without adequate risk mitigation, diversification, or justification can lead to adverse audit findings and regulatory concerns.
Our Supply Chain Audit Approach
Our audits go beyond reviewing documentation. We assess whether responsible sourcing, due diligence, and governance controls are operating effectively across your supply chain, providing independent assurance against UAE regulations and internationally recognised responsible sourcing frameworks.
Supplier Due Diligence Review
We evaluate supplier onboarding processes, including KYC, AML/CFT, ESG assessments, and trade documentation, to verify compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.
Operational Walkthroughs
We conduct on-site reviews with procurement, compliance, logistics, and operational teams to assess whether documented controls are consistently applied in day-to-day activities.
Traceability & Chain-of-Custody Verification
We verify the movement of materials across mines, transport routes, warehouses, and refineries to ensure complete traceability and support responsible sourcing claims.
Audit Trail & Control Testing
We examine records across departments and subsidiaries to assess data integrity, control effectiveness, and the reliability of audit trails throughout the supply chain.
Compliance Against Global Frameworks
We benchmark your supply chain practices against recognised standards and regulatory requirements, including the OECD Due Diligence Guidance, LBMA, RJC, RMAP, and UAE Ministry of Economy Responsible Sourcing Regulations.
How We Help
Supply Chain Audit Solutions
Multi-Framework Third-Party Audits
We conduct independent third-party audits aligned with the UAE Ministry of Economy, UAE Good Delivery, OECD Due Diligence Guidance, LBMA, RJC, and RMAP standards. Our audits support organisations dealing in gold, gemstones, critical minerals, and other high-risk commodities while also addressing ESG and sustainability reporting requirements.
On-Site & Cross-Border Field Audits
Our teams perform field audits across domestic and international supply chains, including Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas (CAHRAs). We assess operations through site visits, supplier evaluations, and stakeholder interviews to verify responsible sourcing practices throughout the value chain.
ESG, Digital & Thematic Audits
We evaluate ESG performance, human rights practices, anti-bribery controls, environmental risks, and governance frameworks. Our audits also assess blockchain traceability solutions, ERP systems, cybersecurity controls, and data protection measures supporting supply chain integrity.
Audit Planning & Execution
Every audit is tailored to your industry, regulatory framework, and risk profile. We define the audit scope, test governance systems and operational controls, review supporting documentation, and deliver practical, evidence-based assessments.
Ratings, Reporting & Remediation Support
We provide structured audit reports, ratings aligned with UAE Ministry of Economy and Emirates Bullion Market Committee protocols where applicable, and detailed corrective action plans. We also support follow-up audits, verification exercises, and re-certification programmes to help organisations maintain ongoing compliance.
UAE Good Delivery Audit Authority
Appointed as a UAE Good Delivery Auditor under the Emirates Bullion Market Committee, delivering independent assurance for one of the region's most regulated industries.
Trusted by Regulators & Industry
We have conducted audits for leading UAE refineries in accordance with Ministry of Economy responsible sourcing protocols and regulatory expectations.
Global Field Audit Experience
Our auditors have completed supply chain reviews across Africa, Latin America, and other high-risk jurisdictions, bringing practical experience in complex sourcing environments.
Sector-Specific Expertise
We combine deep knowledge of precious metals, critical minerals, logistics, digital traceability, and fintech to deliver audits tailored to high-risk supply chains.
Aligned with International Standards
Our audit methodology is based on globally recognised frameworks, including the OECD Due Diligence Guidance, LBMA Responsible Gold Guidance (RGG), RJC Code of Practices (COP), and UAE responsible sourcing requirements.
Multidisciplinary Audit Team
Our engagements are led by experienced auditors supported by legal advisers, ESG specialists, compliance professionals, and technology experts, providing a comprehensive and risk-based audit approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions?
If your question wasn't addressed, we're happy to provide further clarification, reach out to us for assistance.
What is a supply chain audit?
A supply chain audit is an independent assessment of an organisation’s sourcing, due diligence, governance, and risk management practices to verify compliance with applicable regulations and recognised responsible sourcing standards.
Can AKW conduct audits outside the UAE?
Yes. We conduct domestic and international supply chain audits, including field assessments in Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas (CAHRAs), supporting organisations with cross-border sourcing operations.
Which standards and frameworks do your audits follow?
Our audits are aligned with internationally recognised frameworks, including the OECD Due Diligence Guidance, LBMA Responsible Gold Guidance (RGG), RJC Code of Practices (COP), Responsible Minerals Assurance Process (RMAP), UAE Good Delivery Protocols, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
Can you tailor audits to ESG or investor requirements?
Yes. We design bespoke audit programmes that address ESG reporting, lender due diligence, investor expectations, sustainability commitments, and other organisation-specific assurance requirements.
Do you provide audit ratings and corrective action plans?
Yes. We issue structured audit reports, ratings where applicable under recognised protocols, and detailed Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) with practical recommendations to address identified findings and strengthen compliance.
Which industries do you support?
We provide supply chain audit services for organisations operating in precious metals, gemstones, critical minerals, energy, commodity trading, logistics, manufacturing, and technology-enabled supply chains, including blockchain traceability platforms.