As global supply chains place increasing emphasis on ethical and sustainable practices, buyers are expecting suppliers to demonstrate strong audit readiness. Being well prepared for social and environmental audits is no longer something to leave to the last minute – it is a critical part of business planning that builds buyer confidence and protects market access.
Start with Your Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ)
A smooth audit process begins with a fully completed and approved Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ). Before an audit can be requested or scheduled on the MySIZA platform, your SAQ must be up to date and approved.
The SAQ provides auditors with a clear understanding of your operations and risk profile, ensuring buyers have accurate, up-to-date information about your practices. All information submitted must be 100% accurate, as incorrect or incomplete details can negatively affect your audit outcome, buyer approval, and Audit Completion Letter. Auditors rely on this information to prepare effectively and to focus on key risk areas during the audit.
Failing to complete or update your SAQ can compromise audit validity, reduce your visibility on platforms such as Sedex, and prevent your audit from being scheduled. Making the SAQ a priority allows you to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary delays that could affect your commercial relationships.
Plan and Schedule in Advance
Once your SAQ is approved and your subscription is active, you can submit an audit request via the MySIZA platform. Auditors can only schedule audits that have been formally requested by the subscriber, making early planning essential.
Audit requests that remain unscheduled for more than three months may be removed from the system, requiring the scheduling process to be restarted. Scheduling well in advance also improves your chances of securing a qualified audit team, particularly during peak periods such as harvest or high-production seasons, when auditor availability is limited.
A list of SIZA-recognised audit firms is available on the SIZA website under Recognised Audit Firms. https://siza.co.za/recognised-audit-firms/
Understanding Buyer Requirements
Buyers value credible, transparent, and well-managed audits. Suppliers who proactively plan their audit cycles are better positioned to meet buyer due diligence requirements and avoid last-minute bottlenecks that could affect supply contracts.
Engaging in your audit planning several months before your current audit expires strengthens the audit process and demonstrates a commitment to continuous improvement. It is also important to consult with your exporters, importers, and retail buyers to understand their specific requirements regarding approved and accepted audit firms, including the correct audit type (announced, semi-announced, or unannounced) and preferred audit firm.
Support and Important Notes
In some instances—particularly in remote regions or during peak seasons—suppliers may struggle to secure an audit firm within the required timeframe. Including audit scheduling in your annual planning is the best way to avoid disappointment. If you experience difficulties securing an audit firm, the SIZA team can assist by connecting you with recognised audit firms active and available on the MySIZA platform.
Please note that SIZA does not offer extensions to Audit Completion Letters, as audits are already valid for two- or three-year periods. However, a Bridging Letter may be requested to allow additional time to complete corrective actions during peak operational periods (terms and conditions apply).
For assistance or if you are unsure of the process, please contact:
Wian van Niekerk – wian@siza.co.za
Werner van Dyk – werner@siza.co.za
Tel 021 852 8184
