The Challenge
Between 2020 and 2024, IMDEX became subject to modern slavery and human rights reporting obligations in:
- Australia (2020)
- Norway (2023)
- Canada (2024)
Each jurisdiction required separate disclosures, resulting in three distinct reports in 2024. This fragmented approach was resource-intensive and risked presenting inconsistent narratives to external stakeholders. The challenge was compounded by IMDEX’s rapid maturity in ethical governance, evolving from minimal processes in 2019 to a multi-jurisdictional compliance landscape.
The Opportunity
Recognsing the inefficiencies and reputational risks of disjointed reporting, IMDEX initiated a regulatory review in early 2024. The goal: streamline reporting while enhancing transparency and stakeholder confidence.
The Solution
IMDEX developed a single consolidated reporting format that:
- Meets the requirements of Australia, Norway, and Canada.
- Anticipates future obligations in the UK, USA (California), and EU.
- Is published in English and Norwegian to support accessibility and compliance.
This approach positions IMDEX as a pioneer and potentially the first company to harmonise reporting across three to five jurisdictions. While some peers have consolidated for two, IMDEX’s framework sets a new benchmark for global sustainable governance.
Impact and Benefits
Efficiency: IMDEX now produces one report annually, freeing resources for deeper risk assessment and data collection.
Clarity: A unified narrative strengthens stakeholder trust and simplifies external engagement.
Insight: Enhanced data capabilities have already uncovered new high-risk supply chain exposures that might have gone unnoticed under the previous system.
Adaptability: The framework allows for jurisdiction-specific enhancements, such as tailoring disclosures for Canadian regulators.
Looking Ahead
IMDEX plans to continue improving the quality and rigour of its modern slavery data and risk management processes. By consulting more widely, asking deeper questions, and refining disclosures, we aim to remain at the forefront of ethical governance and sustainability leadership.