Conduct procurement
We help you choose between the basic level and the advanced level and assist in supplementing and finalising the clause, for example regarding transparency in the supply chain. We also go through the importance of information about final manufacturing country and of informing suppliers about the contract clause.
Determining the level of the contract clause
The contract clause shall always be applied in procurements that include the Swedish Regions' nationally prioritised purchasing categories. The clause can also be applied in other high-risk procurements if the industry is sufficiently mature in terms of sustainability and it is proportionate. For other categories, the Swedish National Agency offers contract clauses at a basic level.
The Swedish National Agency's basic-level contract clauses
The contract clause is complemented by the Swedish Regions' joint Supplier Code of Conduct, which aims to ensure that contracts are fulfilled in accordance with human rights, workers' rights, the environment, and business ethics. The code is based on international frameworks, conventions, and declarations.
Foundation of the code of conduct
The contract clause is a special contract condition (in Swedish), meaning it does not need to be fulfilled at the time of bidding but must be fulfilled during contract execution. Unless otherwise stated, the clause takes effect when the contract comes into force.
Supplementing and finalising the contract clause
As a buyer, you need to supplement and finalise the contract clause. Placeholders such as [the contracting organisation], shall be replaced with relevant information. Once the contract clause is finalised, it shall be included in its entirety in the procurement documents to ensure transparency.
Requesting final manufacturing country
Ensure that price lists and statistics include information about the final manufacturing country and, if possible, the city. This is important from both a sustainability and supply perspective.
During office audits, the implementation of policies and processes is reviewed through sampling. To select relevant samples, you should analyse which products have the highest risk of adverse impacts, which requires information about final manufacturing country. When addressing severe deviations in a certain area, monitoring is also easier if you already know which suppliers manufacture in the area.
Moreover, natural disasters and conflicts can affect deliveries. By knowing where final manufacturing takes place, you can quickly contact suppliers to assess potential delays.
Informing suppliers about the contract clause
Once the procurement documents are finalised, it is time to publish the procurement. At the same time, inform suppliers about the contract clause; both the Supplier Code of Conduct and the due diligence process. Feel free to refer them to this guidance.