Responsible procurement

JTI applies stringent standards of business ethics within its own operations globally, as described in the JTI “Code of Conduct”.  Similarly, JTI’s Supplier Standards defines the requirements we set for individuals and businesses that provide services or goods to JTI (with the exception of leaf growers who are subject to the JTI Agricultural Labor Practices document).  These include elements that help fulfill our regulatory obligations in the fight against illicit trade in tobacco.  In addition, JTI will support suppliers, wherever possible, who demonstrate a commitment to improve in these areas and will seek to create relationships to enable open discussion and disclosure, so that any issues or shortfalls can be rapidly identified, assessed and managed.

JTI runs a Supplier Certification Program through an internet-based portal for easy access. The principles of the program are based on JTI’s Supplier Standards and key international standards. It encompasses what we expect from our suppliers in terms of labor standards, human rights, environment, health, safety and legitimate business practices.

The objective of this Supplier Certification Program is to define and implement a framework that will enhance the quality of the standards achieved by JTI's vendors.

• The supplier certification program identifies whether the supplier meets the business standards required by JTI.
• It does NOT identify whether the supplier's products and services are suitable to meet a specific JTI business need.

In order to be certified, suppliers will have to complete a questionnaire accessible by invitation only. Each section of the questionnaire refers to the JTI requirements that all suppliers and merchants of JTI must meet.

Once the questionnaire has been completed and submitted, JTI’s Procurement team will review the answers and certify the respective supplier as long as they embrace the same corporate responsibility principles as JTI.