Agents and brokers play an essential role in the movement and trade of products, providing a critical link in their chain of custody. They can influence their suppliers’ product safety and quality standards and are responsible for maintaining an effective chain of traceability.

The third issue of the Global Standard for Agents and Brokers has been developed to specify the safety, quality and operational criteria required to fulfil legal obligations and to protect the consumer or end user of a product. The interpretation guideline is designed to accompany the Standard and should be read in conjunction with it. This publication will help in the understanding of each requirement of the Standard and identifies methods of compliance. 

While adherence to the guideline does not specifically form part of the requirements to achieve certification to the Standard, companies will need to demonstrate they have taken account of the topics addressed within this guideline.

Who should use this publication?

Companies that purchase or take title to (i.e. become the legal owner of) products for resale to manufacturers, other brokers, retailers or food service companies but do not directly sell to the consumer.

Companies that trade between a manufacturer or broker and its customer but do not at any point own or take title to the goods. Such companies provide a range of services to facilitate the safe and legal trade of products. 

It is a requirement that all suppliers undergoing a BRCGS audit to the Global Standard for Agents and Brokers (Issue 3) have access to an official copy of this publication.

Use of BRCGS intellectual property

Information on how you can use BRCGS Standards, guidance and published content can be found here. You can also find a list of answers to common question on how BRCGS content can be used here.