Code of Conduct

1. About our Code

1.1. Who does our Code apply to?

Our Code applies to all staff of Farmsoc. All Farmsoc staff are expected to:

• a). Act in a professional, honest and ethical manner.
• b). Be familiar with the information contained in our Code as well as company policies. Pay particular attention to the policies that are relevant to their job responsibilities.
• c). Promptly report concerns about possible violations of laws, regulations, our Code and other Farmsoc policies to their manager or any of the teams mentioned in our Code.
• d). Cooperate and tell the truth when responding to an internal investigation or audit, and never alter or destroy records when an investigation is anticipated or ongoing.
• e). Once a year, read, acknowledge and commit to complying with our Code.

No reason, including the desire to meet business goals, should ever be an excuse for violating laws, regulations, our Code or company policies.

1.2. Reporting concerns

If you are concerned about something that seems to be in breach of this Statement or FARMSOC’s company policies, you should contact the Farmsoc General Counsel.

2. Respecting your colleagues

2.1. Diversity and inclusion

We value the unique contribution that each person brings to the FARMSOC. We treat everyone with respect and dignity and base all employment decisions on merit, experience, and personal aptitude. We do not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, national origin, religion, age, disability, gender identity or reassignment, sexual orientation, or any other characteristics protected by FARMSOC’s employment policies or applicable laws.

We believe in a harassment-free workplace and we do not tolerate intimidation, bullying or violence of any kind.

2.2. Health and safety

We are committed to the health, safety, and welfare of its employees and others who may be affected by its undertakings. We comply with the Health and Safety at Work and associated legislation and strive to continually improve our health and safety performance through consultation, communication, training, and supervision.

3. Conducting business fairly

3.1. Fair dealing and procurement

We are honest and respectful with our customers and business partners. We do not take unfair advantage through manipulation, concealment, abuse of privileged or confidential information, misrepresentation, fraudulent behaviour, or any other unfair practice.

3.2. Fair competition

We never engage in any practices that are anti-competitive or which limit competition through illegal or unfair means. We comply at all times with all relevant competition and antitrust laws including when sharing or receiving information from third parties.

While we may employ former employees of competitors or suppliers, we always recognise and respect the obligations of those employees to not use or disclose the confidential information of their former employers.

3.3. Global trade and sanctions

We are committed to complying with applicable export and import controls, customs and other relevant laws and policies relating to trade and economic sanctions in the countries in which we operate and do business.

3.4. Anti-bribery and corruption

The Farmsoc has a zero-tolerance policy towards bribery and corruption in all its forms; it is contrary to our values, editorial independence, our Code and company policies.

3.5. Failure to prevent tax evasion

Tax evasion is the illegal evasion of taxes by individuals, corporations, and trusts; it often entails taxpayers deliberately misrepresenting the true state of their affairs to the tax authorities to reduce their tax liability and includes dishonest tax reporting, such as declaring less income, profits or gains than the amounts actually earned or overstating deductions. Farmsoc has a zero-tolerance policy towards the facilitation, or failure to prevent, tax evasion by anyone associated with FARMSOC.

3.6. Conflicts of interest

A conflict of interest may occur when our interests or activities (or those of our family or friends) affect our ability to make objective decisions for Farmsoc. This includes personal relationships with another employee if you have influence over their salary or career path. We either avoid these situations and/or are transparent about them and ensure they are approved at the appropriate level.

4. Protecting our records, data and assets

4.1. Privacy and personal information

We respect the privacy of all individuals who entrust us with their personal information and we are transparent and honest about our privacy practices. We understand some types of information are more sensitive and treat them with extra care. We retain all information for as long as legally required but no longer than necessary, with respect to all applicable laws relating to data privacy.

4.2. Confidentiality and intellectual property

We respect all third party patents, trademarks, copyrights, proprietary information and trade secrets. We must protect Farmsoc’s intellectual property, including its trademarks, copyrights, and brands.

4.3. Accurate books and records

We are committed to transparency and to making full, accurate, timely and clear disclosure of required financial or other reports that are filed with or submitted to regulatory authorities. Employees with a role in the preparation of our public, financial and regulatory disclosures have a special responsibility in this area, but all of us are responsible for helping to ensure the information we record is accurate, timely and complete and would not jeopardize the reliability and integrity of our books and records.

4.4. Use of technology

We trust our employees to treat the company assets with respect and care. Company assets include (but are not limited to) our buildings, equipment, computers, software, office and mobile devices, faxes, files, documents, inventory and supplies, intellectual property and confidential information.

5. Corporate social responsibility

As a socially responsible company, Farmsoc invests in initiatives and causes that engage members through charitable opportunities; engage employees through recognition, inclusion, and volunteerism; and maintain environmental and social stewardship. Our corporate responsibility portfolio is an important part of our internal and customer communications. It enables us to take responsibility for the impact of our operations on customers, employees, communities and the environment. We encourage our employees to get involved in their communities and enable our people to give time and money to good causes.

5.1. Modern slavery and human rights

Our values mean we respect the human rights and dignity of people. We support universal human rights, including equal employment, freedom of speech and of association, and cultural, economic and social well-being. We oppose illegal or inhumane labour practices, including slavery, servitude, forced or compulsory labour and human trafficking. Our approach to modern slavery and human trafficking is set out in our Slavery Statement.

5.2. Environmental stewardship

We have a responsibility as a company to take proper care of the environment and to manage and minimise our impact on the environment. As a company we:

• a). Comply with the relevant environmental laws and regulations applicable in each country in which we operate;
• b). Take account of environmental responsibility as a factor in business decision making; and
• c). Work with our business partners to ensure that they support our environmental objectives.

5.3. Political activities

Farmsoc does not make corporate political contributions to any political party or candidate running for election or re-election to a government political office. We respect the rights of employees to voluntarily participate in the political process including making their own personal political contributions, assisting in political campaigns and expressing their personal political views. But we prohibit the use of company time or property for the purpose of assisting in any political campaign or promotion of any political candidate.