AKW Consultants has been approved as an LBMA Assurance Provider, marking a significant milestone for the firm and reinforcing its position in the global responsible sourcing and precious metals landscape.

The appointment comes at a time when responsible sourcing has evolved beyond a compliance requirement and is increasingly being viewed as a strategic imperative for refiners, traders, and other participants across the gold and precious metals value chain. The LBMA Responsible Sourcing Programme remains one of the market’s most important frameworks for promoting ethical sourcing standards across the gold and silver value chain.

AKW Consultants has built a profile in the sector through its work across compliance, governance, assurance, and responsible sourcing advisory. The firm has also been active in industry dialogue on some of the most pressing challenges in the gold supply chain, including artisanal and small-scale gold mining, traceability, intergovernmental collaboration, and structured, transparent sourcing channels.

Faisal Ahmed, Managing Partner & CEO at AKW Consultants, said: “Approval as an LBMA Assurance Provider marks an important milestone for AKW Consultants and reflects the increasing importance of credible, independent assurance in the global precious metals market. Responsible sourcing today is no longer just about policy. It is about implementation, transparency, traceability, and the ability to demonstrate that systems are robust, practical, and aligned with evolving global expectations.”

Michael Wharton, Director of Business Strategy & Growth at AKW Consultants, added: “This recognition strengthens AKW’s ability to support refiners and wider market participants as responsible sourcing becomes increasingly central to trust, resilience, and long-term market credibility. Our focus is on helping organisations translate compliance expectations into assurance frameworks that are practical, auditable, and commercially meaningful.”

Expanding Role in a Changing Responsible Sourcing Landscape

AKW’s approval as an LBMA Assurance Provider comes at a time when scrutiny across global precious metals supply chains is intensifying. With increasing emphasis on transparency, due diligence, ESG considerations, and risk management, market participants are seeking assurance partners capable of supporting both compliance and long-term strategic resilience.

AKW Consultants’ recognition by the LBMA is expected to enhance its role in supporting refiners, financial institutions, and precious metals market participants in aligning with evolving global standards.