Multinational companies seek internationalization for their market shares and to access cheap labor elsewhere. Multinational corporations have made efforts to increase profits and lower production costs, but forced labor and human traficking are still on the decline. Apple created the Suppliers Code of Conduct, which describes its interactions with foreign and domestic suppliers. (Apple 2021). Employers are required to ensure a healthy and safe workplace by following US regulations such as the Equal Pay Act and Occupational Safety and Health Act. The corporation uses its supplier’s code of conduct as a tool to ensure that it adheres to various international and national standards to make sustainable products.
Apple’s Code of Conduct governs its relationship with its suppliers. This code of conduct demonstrates Apple’s commitment to high standards in labor ethics, human rights, the environment, and environmental protection. It is important that the supplier follows all national and international legislation and adheres to company policies. The management of the supply chain is crucial for improving the business’ operational efficiency. Apple created a supplier collaboration approach and certified it to enhance the supply chain’s efficiency, effectiveness and uniformity. To ensure that suppliers comply with corporate supplier code of conduct (SCC), the corporation reviews suppliers carefully. This code outlines the terms of the supplier for business relations with the company. The supplier should confirm that the manufacturing process they use is in compliance with Apple’s Human Rights Policy and that it does not allow for forced labor. (Apple, 2002).
Apple’s SCC of Apple emphasized that discrimination is not acceptable in its workplace or among suppliers. The institution states that the evaluation is based upon merit and does not discriminate against suppliers based on their race, religion, color or culture. Its human rights policy in the supply chain is compliant with 1958 ILO convention, which prohibited discrimination against workers or suppliers. International Labor Organization (2022). The 1958 Convention by the ILO urged nations to establish fair work environments that allow both rich and poor people to realize their potential. It also includes the Americans Pregnant Act (US Civil Rights Act), and the Americans with Disability Act (US), which require organizations to provide equal opportunity for all people regardless of their race, religion, pregnancy status, disability, or color. Stereotyping and discrimination are violations of the individual’s human rights, as outlined by anti-discrimination legislation and the ILO.
Apple integrates due diligence in its SCC, to guide the selection and evaluation of suppliers to encourage equity. Apple’s SCC describes a due diligence management strategy that encourages transparency, constant verification, and changes. This code encourages suppliers to act in an eco-friendly manner and reduce their negative impact on society. This supplier certification system is both economical and fast (Lashley (2018). Apple can reduce the frequency of testing required for suppliers who are trusted and provide high-quality products.