English

13/18

13The laws of many countries set strict limits on, and in some cases prohibit, contributions by corporations to political parties. Bridgestone prohibits that company funds, resources, or facilities are used to support directly or indirectly any political party or candidate, unless approved in advance by the Law Department and, where applicable, the Government Relations Department or the relevant department that manages government relations in your region, and provided it is made in strict accordance with your regional and local policies.As part of our corporate social responsibility commitment, Bridgestone actively supports charitable causes in the communities in which we operate around the world.From time to time, providing charitable contributions can create corruption risks for Bridgestone. Risks can arise in a variety of ways, including where a charitable organization does not actually exist, is a front or shell entity, or is associated with a Government Official. As a result, it is important to conduct due diligence and exercise care when selecting charitable organizations and to gain assurances that contributions will be used for the purpose intended and will not be diverted to an improper beneficiary.If you are considering offering or providing a charitable contribution, you must ensure that the following criteria are met:• It is not offered, promised, or provided to obtain or retain business or for any other improper advantage;• It conforms with Bridgestone policies, applicable law and any local policies or procedures;• It is not made to a Government Official, and there is no indication that the contribution will be redirected to an individual Government Official’s personal use; and• It is properly reported and documented in the company’s books and records.Any charitable contribution that is requested by a Government Official, made to an organization associated with a Government Official, or made to a government entity must be approved in advance by the Law Department.Political ContributionsCharitable ContributionsKey Requirements