11 April 2022

The Volkswagen Group takes its corporate responsibility very seriously. Respect for human rights and the environment is the ethical basis of our business activities. We stand for individual freedom, fair working conditions, open world trade, economic development and peaceful coexistence.

We are concerned about the report by Nikkei Asia on nickel sourcing in Indonesia published October 19, 2022 which we take very seriously.

As a global acting company, we share and live by our values worldwide. The Social Charter of Volkswagen Group serves as a guideline (e.g. respect for minorities, social and employment standards). Cooperation with our direct suppliers is based on these corporate values and principles.

The Volkswagen Group has a Code of Conduct for Business Partners which details the Group’s expectations regarding the attitude and conduct of business partners in their corporate activities, particularly with regard to suppliers. The requirements are regarded as the basis for successfully shaping the business relationship between the Volkswagen Group and its partners. They include observance of human rights as well as ensuring environmental protection.

Suppliers have to accept our sustainability requirements and commit to fulfilling them when entering into a business relationship with the Volkswagen Group. Our direct suppliers are expected to pass on these sustainability requirements to their business partners throughout the supply chain. In this regard, responsible raw materials sourcing requires our particular attention. Obtaining raw materials under environmentally-friendly conditions is key to our customers’ acceptance of our products.

For further information please also see our “responsible raw materials report” in which we detail our activities on raw materials-specific supply chain due diligence:
*Volkswagen-Group-Responsible-Raw-Materials-Report-2021.pdf (volkswagenag.com)

The joint venture project of Volkswagen quoted in the Nikkei Asia article is subject to ongoing negotiation and not approved yet. Prior to any engagement Volkswagen will make sure that our values are upheld and that our global sustainability and compliance standards are fulfilled.

Thank you very much for your request and giving us the opportunity to respond.