Sojitz Group CSR Action Guidelines for Supply Chains
As a general trading company developing business around the world, Sojitz Group is involved in a wide range of supply chains. One of Sojitz Group’s most important tasks is to work together with suppliers and other business partners to reduce environmental and societal (human rights) risks within its supply chains. Sojitz has therefore established the Sojitz Group CSR Action Guidelines for Supply Chains and also maintains separate procurement policies for specific goods within fields with high human rights risks.
In the implementation of these guidelines, Sojitz honors the principles and requirements outlined in the international standards such as the International Bill of Human Rights, the ILO Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Business Conduct, and the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas.
Sojitz Group CSR Action Guidelines for Supply Chains
1. CSR Action Guidelines
Our business activities are built on collaboration with business partners in diverse countries and regions as well as within various industries, and Sojitz Group recognizes the importance of implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in its supply chains while taking into account the unique characteristics of each industry.
Sojitz Group, together with its suppliers and other business partners, strives to conduct its business activities in harmony and mutual prosperity with society and the environment. In order to ensure responsible business practices that respect the human rights of all relevant stakeholders and preserve the natural environment, Sojitz requires its suppliers, customers, and other business partners to understand and implement the following guidelines.
- Respect the human rights of employees and treat employees in a humane manner.
- Prevent forced labor and child labor. Ensure the observance of appropriate working time and aim to promote the payment of a fair and equitable wage that meets or exceeds living wage standards.
- Ensure non-discriminatory hiring and employment practices without discrimination including on the basis of race, nationality, ethnic origin, or sex.
- Respect employees’ freedom of association and the right to collective bargaining to ensure constructive negotiations between labor and management.
- Provide a safe, sanitary, and healthy work environment for employees.
- Observe all relevant laws and regulations. Work to ensure the fairness of transactions and prevent corruption.
- Ensure the quality and safety of products and services.
- In all business activities, take measures to address climate change and promote the efficient use of resources, such as through water and waste recycling. Conserve biodiversity and prevent environmental pollution. Show consideration for the conservation of ecosystems, local environments, and natural environment.
- Ensure timely and appropriate disclosure of information regarding the aforementioned items.
2. Response to Cases of Material Breach
In the event of a material breach of the Action Guidelines, Sojitz Group shall, upon verifying the facts, request that the supplier or other business partner rectify the situation. If no improvement is made after a specified period, Sojitz will take measures which may include a reassessment of the business relationship with the supplier or partner.
If deemed necessary, Sojitz Group or an expert designated by the Group will make an on-site visit to conduct an investigation.
Established in April 2010
Revised in June 2017
Revised in April 2026