In terms of Product Stewardship sourcing of raw materials, intermediates and additives means that the goods are produced using Best Available Techniques, under safe operations for the suppliers' workforce and that the goods have a minimum impact on the environment.
In addition the supplier should provide SHE information of the product in order to ensure safe handling. Companies should have a supplier selection and management systems in place to achieve this.

There are no legal requirements.

The sourcing of raw materials intermediates and additives are not only subject to economical but also for quality considerations. Since these products are mostly used to produce final fertilizers it is important to consider this quality issue since it may influence the efficiency of the production process and the quality of the end product. However, from a Product Stewardship point of view the possible adverse effects on health and the environment are important and should also be assessed:

Based on the product selection criteria mentioned under product sourcing, selection of suppliers should be done and a supplier selection and management system should be in place. The selection and management system contains of the following steps:

For Third Party Products (traded products and swaps) procedures should be in place that set requirements of testing for safety and product quality. In addition procedures should be in place for checking on a regular basis that Third Party Products satisfy the Company's requirements.