Buyer GuideIntermediate20 min read
Supplier Due Diligence Guide
How to thoroughly verify African suppliers before placing your first order. Background checks, factory audits, verification tiers, and risk mitigation strategies.
Gloseg Verification Tiers
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Basic (Bronze)
Entry Level- Business registration verified
- Email & phone confirmed
- Basic profile completed
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Verified (Silver)
Moderate- Government-issued business license verified
- Bank account ownership confirmed
- Physical address validated
- At least 1 completed transaction
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Trusted (Gold)
High- On-site factory audit completed
- ISO/HACCP/GMP certification verified
- 3+ successful transactions
- Positive buyer reviews
- Export license confirmed
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Premium (Platinum)
Highest- Annual third-party audit (SGS/Bureau Veritas)
- Trade credit insurance eligible
- 5+ years export track record
- Consistent 4.5+ star rating
- Dedicated account manager
Legal & Registration
- Company registration certificate (CAC, BRELA, etc.)
- Tax identification number (TIN)
- Export license (for controlled goods)
- Industry-specific permits (NAFDAC, KEBS, GSA)
- Directors/shareholders identification
Financial Health
- Bank reference letter
- Last 2 years audited financial statements
- Trade credit references (3+ suppliers/buyers)
- Outstanding litigation or debt judgments
- Insurance coverage (product liability, cargo)
Operational Capability
- Factory/warehouse photos or virtual tour
- Production capacity documentation
- Quality management system (ISO 9001, HACCP)
- Staff count and key personnel CVs
- Equipment list and maintenance records
Export Track Record
- Previous export shipping documents (B/L, Commercial Invoice)
- Reference customers (with permission to contact)
- Export country destinations list
- Customs compliance history
- Membership in trade associations (NEPC, FPEAK, AGI)