How To Fix MI518 - Industry sector reference & does not exist

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: MI - Customizing for the Material Master

• Message number: 518

• Message text: Industry sector reference & does not exist

Self-Explanatory Message

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Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message MI518 - Industry sector reference & does not exist ?

  The SAP error message MI518, which states "Industry sector reference & does not exist," typically occurs in the context of material master data or when dealing with specific industry sector configurations in SAP. This error indicates that the system is unable to find a reference for the specified industry sector in the configuration.
  Cause:
  
  Missing Configuration: The industry sector referenced in the material master or other related data does not exist in the system. This could be due to incorrect data entry or missing configuration settings.
  Incorrect Material Type: The material type being used may not be compatible with the specified industry sector.
  Data Migration Issues: If data has been migrated from another system, there may be inconsistencies or missing entries related to industry sectors.
  Custom Development: If there are custom developments or enhancements in the system, they may not be correctly referencing the industry sector.
  
  Solution:
  
  
  Check Industry Sector Configuration:
  
  Go to the configuration settings in SAP (Transaction code SPRO).
  Navigate to the relevant area for industry sector settings and verify that the required industry sector is defined.
  If it is missing, you may need to create it or adjust the existing settings.
  
  
  
  Verify Material Master Data:
  
  Use transaction code MM03 to display the material master data.
  Check the industry sector field to ensure it is correctly populated.
  If necessary, update the material master with the correct industry sector.
  
  
  
  Review Material Type Settings:
  
  Ensure that the material type being used is compatible with the industry sector.
  Check the configuration for the material type in SPRO.
  
  
  
  Data Migration Review:
  
  If the error occurred after a data migration, review the migration process to ensure that all necessary data, including industry sectors, was correctly transferred.
  
  
  
  Consult Documentation:
  
  Review SAP documentation or notes related to the specific industry sector and material types to ensure compliance with best practices.
  
  
  
  Contact SAP Support:
  
  If the issue persists after checking the above points, consider reaching out to SAP support for further assistance.
  
  
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: 
  
  MM03 (Display Material Master)
  SPRO (SAP Project Reference Object for configuration)
  
  
  SAP Notes: Check for any relevant SAP Notes that may address this specific error or provide additional guidance.
  User Roles: Ensure that the user has the necessary authorizations to access and modify the relevant configurations and master data.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to identify the cause of the MI518 error and implement the appropriate solution.