Sedex Audit Guide: Cost, Requirements, and What Your Business Needs to Know

1. What is Sedex and What is a Sedex Audit?

• Explanation of Sedex as a global platform for ethical trade.
  
  

• SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) as the audit methodology.
  
  

• Key sectors using Sedex (apparel, food, packaging, manufacturing).
  
  

At HEDG, we help you navigate these systems so you can meet buyer expectations with confidence.

2. SMETA Audit Requirements: What Does the Audit Cover?

• 4 Pillars of SMETA:
  
  

• Labour standards
  
  

• Health & safety
  
  

• Environment
  
  

• Business ethics
  
  

• Documentation needed
  
  

• Common non-compliances
  
  

• Tips for first-timers
  
  

HEDG offers audit-readiness checklists, mock reviews, and support in closing gaps before the auditor steps in.

3. How Much Does a Sedex Audit Cost?

• General range: ₹1.2 to ₹2.5 lakhs depending on:
  
  

• Size of facility
  
  

• Number of employees
  
  

• Location and scope (2-pillar or 4-pillar)
  
  

• Other costs: preparation, follow-up visits, CAPs (Corrective Action Plans)
  
  

We help businesses like yours reduce audit costs by getting it right the first time.

4. Who Needs a Sedex Audit — and Why?

• Required by global buyers for ethical sourcing compliance.
  
  

• Mandatory for selling to big retailers (e.g., Tesco, M&S, Walmart suppliers).
  
  

• Often applies to Indian SMEs in garments, food, home decor, etc.
  
  

5. Is Sedex a Government Audit?

• No, Sedex is a private membership-based platform, not a government agency.
  
  

• SMETA is a voluntary audit often buyer-mandated for supplier approval.
  
  

HEDG helps you meet international private compliance standards — so you stay ready for every buyer.

6. How HEDG Supports You Through Your Sedex Journey

• Audit readiness support
  
  

• Documentation help
  
  

• Corrective Action Plan guidance
  
  

• Trusted network of SMETA-approved auditors
  
  

• Post-audit compliance and buyer communication
  
  

 Conclusion: Get Sedex-Ready with HEDG

A Sedex audit can open global doors — but only if you’re well-prepared. From compliance to confidence, HEDG is your partner every step of the way.

→ Ready to get started? Talk to HEDG today