Thai Union is introducing a more stringent ‘Business Ethics and Labor Code of Conduct’ which it says will create a higher level of accountability and transparency through its supply chain.
The new code will apply to all its member companies and be available in 13 languages, replacing the company’s 2013 Code of Conduct concerning labour practices.
Thiraphong Chansiri, Thai Union president and CEO, said: “This new code further defines the expectations of our suppliers and showcases our commitment to earn the trust of customers, consumers and the world by operating with integrity and high ethical standards. We relentlessly work against corruption in all forms, promote good governance and increased transparency.”
“In recent years, we’ve seen too many instances of human trafficking and labour abuses coming from many parts of the world – it’s unacceptable. We hope others will join us to demand an end to labour abuses.”
Thai Union’s Code of Conduct is built on 12 fundamental principles designed to reinforce a culture of integrity and is aligned with the United Nations Global Compact principles of basic responsibilities to people and upholding their basic rights.
The revised code focuses on the recruitment and treatment of workers stipulating protocols on employee welfare, benefits, wages, age, the right to freedom of association, the right to collective bargaining, and non-negotiable frameworks for health and safety.
Thai Union has also begun a formal training programme for Thai fishing boats and brokers for Thai raw seafood materials. It is also working in collaboration with the local NGOs on training programmes for Thai Union foreign workers’ to help them understand their rights under Thai law.
