Basic Policy
We shall conduct appropriate business transactions with common sense and for the benefit of each other, in compliance with the competition laws of each country that prohibit unfair competition and acts that restrict transactions (bid-rigging, etc.). In addition, we shall comply with the laws and regulations of each country and moderate our relations with related parties in the course of our duties (public servants, private business partners and related, etc.). The Board of Directors has resolved to put corporate ethics into practice, including the prevention of corruption.
1. Scope of Application
This Basic Policy applies to all officers and employees of the Shimadzu Group, including full-time employees, fixed-term employees, temporary staff, and other similar personnel.
2. Compliance with the Antimonopoly Act
We will compete and transact business in compliance with the laws and regulations of countries and regions.
We will not engage in arrangements (cartels) with competitors regarding matters such as sales prices, sales conditions, sales volumes, production volumes, sales regions, or purchasers, or engage in collusion related to successful bidding or prices (collusive bidding). We also will not abuse any superior position we may have when dealing with subcontractors.
3. Compliance with the Subcontract Act
We will engage in fair procurement activities.
When selecting material suppliers, we welcome offers from a wide range of companies to determine appropriate suppliers with fair comparison.
4. Interactions in the Course of Duties
We do not entertain or give gifts to public officials to our advantage in business. We also do not give gifts to public officials or treat them to meals that could be misunderstood as an intention in our favor.
5. Complying with countries' bribery laws and regulations
When conducting business on a global scale, we will comply with countries' penal codes and bribery laws and regulations, including those concerning bribery of public officials ordinances.
6. Improper entertainment or gifts
We will not offer or accept improper entertainment or gifts.
We will engage in offering or accepting entertainment or gifts to or from business partners within the scope of sound business practices and common sense. We will decline gifts, entertainment, etc. from suppliers of materials and services, and/or recipients of donations, such as universities.
7. Training on Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption
To deepen understanding of laws and regulations related to anti-bribery and anti-corruption, as well as this Basic Policy, the Shimadzu Group provides training and education to officers and employees.
8. Procedures for Responding to Violations
If any officer or employee of the Shimadzu Group becomes aware of conduct that violates, or may violate, this Basic Policy or applicable laws and regulations, they shall promptly consult with their supervisor or report the matter to the internal reporting (whistleblowing) contact point.
The Shimadzu Group will appropriately investigate reported matters and will not treat the reporting person disadvantageously because of such reporting.
In conducting investigations, we respect the privacy of those involved and respond fairly and objectively.
9. Corrective Measures and Disciplinary Actions for Violations of this Basic Policy
If a violation of this Basic Policy or related laws and regulations is identified, the Shimadzu Group will take corrective measures appropriate to the nature of the violation, including addressing the root causes and implementing measures to prevent recurrence.
In addition, disciplinary actions may be taken in accordance with applicable work rules and other internal regulations.