02 August 2024

ASICS Group has been actively addressing the issue of “freedom of association” (the right to form a labor union) concerning our subcontracted supplier factories in Cambodia including Wing Star Shoes Co., Ltd (WSS). We have been engaging with WSS and others involved to ensure compliance and respect for these fundamental rights.

ASICS reaffirms its unwavering commitment to upholding labor rights, freedom of association, and ethical practices, as outlined in our Supplier Code of Conduct (https://corp.asics.com/en/p/asics-policy-of-engagement) which is established in line with international labor standards. We declare our dedication to promoting ethical business practices in collaboration with our business partners.

We believe that all workers are equally entitled to fundamental rights, including ”freedom of association”. In alignment with this policy, we proactively and continuously engage in factory audits and collaborative initiatives to improve factory operations. Additionally, we encourage our suppliers to participate in “Better Work,” a factory improvement program promoted by the International Labor Organization (ILO) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC). WSS has also participated in the program and been continuously monitored for its commitment to human rights practices.

ASICS takes any alleged intervention in “freedom of association” very seriously and is taking necessary actions. Specifically, we have been actively engaging in dialogues with stakeholders, including the Cambodian Alliance of Trade Unions (CATU), the party directly concerned in this case, and Center for Alliance of Labor and Human Rights, to thoroughly investigate the facts. We have also reiterated to the management of WSS our insistence on the strict adherence to our "Supplier Code of Conduct" to ensure compliance with appropriate labor practices. Furthermore, we have demanded that WSS respect workers’ right to organize without interference or retaliation against union activities. WSS has fully accepted our demands and has committed to respect the “freedom of association” for all workers.

We acknowledge the judicial decision regarding the representative of the newly forming labor union at WSS. We have confirmed that WSS is prioritizing his health and safety, as evidenced by WSS’s human resource personnel visited him to assess his health condition and ensure that the requested medical consultation and medicines are being provided. We also confirmed that WSS continues to maintain his employment status, treating him as being on temporary leave.

We remain committed to thoroughly understanding the situation and to respect internationally recognized human rights principles, and applicable laws and regulations.

We remain committed to ensuring the protection of workers’ rights and safety within our group supply chain.