The latest APSCA data confirms what has already been observed in practice: social auditing is becoming increasingly relevant across global supply chains.

In 2025, APSCA members reported 187,615 audits - an increase of 8.8% compared to the previous year. This is not a sudden spike, but a steady and consistent growth, reflecting a real shift in how organizations are assessed.

Looking at the markets, a few trends stand out. China remains the largest market in terms of volume. Vietnam shows strong growth at 25%, while the United States increases by 26%. Portugal, although on a different scale, grows by 16% and starts gaining relative visibility.

Beyond the numbers, these figures point to a growing pressure on organizations to demonstrate - not just declare - responsible practices across their value chains.

In this context, social auditing takes on a different role. It moves beyond compliance and becomes a way to ensure consistency, transparency, and credibility in processes.

APSCA plays an important role in this evolution. With more than 5,000 certified auditors across 105 countries, the association sets standards for competence, integrity, and ethics, helping to strengthen trust in global supply chains.

For APCER, as an APSCA member, this framework is relevant not only institutionally but also in practice: independent audits, clear criteria, and a consistent focus on rigor.

As ESG, human rights, and due diligence become increasingly central, social auditing is no longer peripheral. It is becoming part of how organizations demonstrate trust.

And this, more than a trend, points to a structural shift.

To learn more about how APCER supports organizations in social auditing and responsible supply chains, contact our team or explore our services.