Why Supplier-Attested Data Is the Key to Effective Supply Chain Mapping

In 2025, supply chain mapping is no longer a question of if but how. Companies understand the importance of mapping to meet the strictest due diligence regulations, mitigate operational risks, and build consumer trust. 

However, not all supply chain mapping approaches are created equal. At the heart of an effective strategy lies one critical factor: the quality and verifiability of your data. Supplier-attested and verified data — rather than AI-generated estimates — is essential for navigating today’s regulatory and market demands. Here’s why.

Supply chain maps are required for compliance with global human rights and environmental standards

Global regulations like the EU Forced Labor Regulation, EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and the U.S. Forced Labor Prevention Act set high expectations for supply chain transparency. These laws mandate that companies map their supply chains and provide verifiable proof of compliance. For instance, to comply with the U.S. Forced Labor Prevention Act, importers must present chain of custody documents, such as transportation and payment records, within 30 days of a shipment detention or seizure.

The quality of your supply chain map determines whether you can confidently respond to these regulatory challenges. Relying on AI-only mapping tools to fill in gaps with assumptions or outdated data simply won’t hold up under scrutiny.

The problems with AI-only supply chain mapping solutions

AI-driven supply chain mapping tools often promise rapid results by filling data gaps with predictive algorithms. While AI can be an invaluable tool for risk monitoring and identifying trends, it lacks the direct validation that comes with supplier-attested data.

For example, AI-generated maps may struggle to distinguish between active and inactive supplier relationships or miss updates in supply chain structures. It may also fill gaps with publicly available data instead of verified data. When regulatory authorities demand chain of custody evidence, these inaccuracies can result in noncompliance, penalties, or worse.

To strike the right balance, companies should adopt a hybrid approach that leverages AI for monitoring and supplier-provided data for validation.

The benefits of supplier-attested supply chain data

Supplier-verified data is essential for building a transparent, compliant, and risk-resilient supply chain. Combining the power of AI with the accuracy of supplier-attested data provides concrete, verifiable evidence of supply chain relationships. 

Companies start by identifying their direct suppliers, who then disclose their own, creating a cascading chain of transparency down to the source. AI-powered tools can then validate suppliers against global watchlists and databases that list entities linked to violations. 

Integrating supplier-attested data with AI-driven monitoring delivers full supply chain visibility in weeks.

Best practices for supplier-verified mapping

Follow these best practices to ensure your mapping efforts meet both regulatory and operational needs:

• Engage your suppliers early: Build strong relationships with suppliers and communicate the importance of their role in providing accurate and timely data.

• Implement a centralized portal: Use tools that streamline data collection, allowing suppliers to upload information in a standardized format. A centralized system eliminates duplication and improves efficiency.

• Pressure-test supplier preparedness: Simulate customs detention scenarios to evaluate whether your suppliers can provide the necessary documentation within required timeframes.

• Monitor continuously: Continuous mapping and monitoring allow you to identify changes in dynamic supply chains in real time, mitigating risks as they arise.