ANTI-BRIBERY ANTI-CORRUPTION POLICY

ABAC™ CoE conducts its business professionally, with integrity and in compliance with the laws of those jurisdictions in which it operates. Our reputation for acting fairly is built on our values as a company and the values of our employees. As part of our commitment to ethical business practices, we will not tolerate acts of bribery or corruption. Our Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption (ABAC™) Policy ensures that ABAC™ CoE personnel, and those acting on our behalf, behave in a manner that is consistent with anti-bribery and corruption laws in all countries in which ABAC™ CoE does business.

 

 MESSAGE FROM THE CEO- ABAC™ Center of Excellence Limited 

At ABAC Center of Excellence Limited, herein referred to as ABAC Certification, we are committed to maintaining high standards of honesty, integrity, business ethics and corporate governance in line with laws and regulations in the jurisdictions ABAC Certification operates. Our Code of Ethics and Behaviours outlines the standards and behaviours that ABAC Certification upholds as a corporate entity to ensure that the highest standards of honesty and integrity are maintained. This has become more desirable and important because of the emergence of anti-bribery and corruption legislations worldwide and international commitments to curb the menace of Bribery and corruption. 

ABAC Certification has a zero-tolerance approach for giving or receiving bribes or corrupt payments. To receive and/or give bribes and become an aide to corrupt practices is prohibited, whether committed by employees or anyone else acting for and on the Company’s behalf. 

This Policy sets out what is and is not acceptable in general terms, but in case of any doubt as to whether any conduct could amount to Bribery and corrupt practice, the matter should be referred to the designated officer, the Scheme Function for this Policy. It is essential that you read, understand, and comply with this Policy. 

This Policy also clarifies and identifies practices which could potentially violate anti-bribery and corruption laws in the respective countries where ABAC Certification operates. Nevertheless, this Policy aims to acquaint and familiarise the employees and all associated persons with rules that ABAC Certification is committed to follow to contribute significantly to preventing and controlling Bribery and corruption. However, it is not intended to equip you to function as your legal counsel. Instead, it will help you recognise when you need to seek the advice of our designated officer. I expect you to give these requirements your careful attention in performing your duties. 

ZAFAR ANJUM 

Group CEO 

ABAC Center of Excellence Limited 

Policy Date: September 12, 2022 

ANTI-BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION POLICY STATEMENT 

CRI-POL-007, Rev.4.0, Date 12-09-202 

Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption Center of Excellence Limited (“Company”), herein referred to as ABAC™ CoE and/or ABAC Certification, is committed to applying the highest standards of ethical conduct, integrity, and corporate governance in its business activities. Every employee, individual and entity acting on ABAC™ CoE’s behalf is responsible for conducting the Company’s business honestly and professionally and being compliant with the legal framework. 

ABAC™ CoE believes that Bribery, corruption, and corrupt practices have detrimental impacts not only on business by undermining good governance and distorting free markets but, on a larger spectrum, damaging societal setup economically. Corruption is a complex phenomenon with economic, social, political and cultural dimensions which cannot be easily eliminated. 

ABAC™ CoE carries out business transparent and ethically and strives to ensure honest, open, and fair competition in its business spheres. To comply with respective laws and regulations regarding Bribery, corruption and corrupt practices, ABAC™ CoE can lead the market through innovation and by delivering excellent services and products to its customers. 

ABAC™ CoE has zero tolerance for any form of Bribery, corruption and corrupt practices by its employees or any persons or companies acting for or on its behalf. The CEO is committed to implementing and enforcing effective systems to prevent, monitor and eliminate Bribery, corruption, and corrupt practices under the laws of the countries where ABAC™ CoE conducts its business. Besides, ABAC™ CoE endeavours to seek guidance from international legal instruments adopted by the United Nations, European Union, and the OECD. 

ABAC™ CoE Anti-Bribery and Corruption policy not only applies to all its employees but also encompasses the individuals and entities with whom the Company deals. For effective implementation of this Policy, the employees working at ABAC™ CoE must get acquainted and familiarise themselves with it and comply with it. To flourish an anti-bribery and corruption culture in the Company, the employees and others acting for and on behalf of ABAC™ CoE are strictly prohibited from making, soliciting, or receiving any sort of bribes or unauthorised payments indulged in corrupt practices. 

Nonetheless, an employee’s breach of Anti-Bribery and Corruption policy will be treated as grounds for disciplinary action, which may result in gross misconduct and immediate dismissal, exposing the responsible to other penal consequences under the laws. Employees and other individuals acting for ABAC CoE should be mindful that Bribery is a criminal offence that may result in the imposition of penalties/fines, which may vary in different jurisdictions under their respective laws. 

ABAC™ CoE abstains from conducting business with service providers, agents or representatives that do not adhere to and support the ABAC™ CoE’s anti-bribery and anti-corruption Policy and objectives. The success of ABAC™ CoE’s anti-bribery measures depend on everyone playing their role in helping to detect and eradicate Bribery. Hence, all employees and others acting for, or on behalf of, ABAC™ CoE are encouraged and expected to report any suspicious activity to the Company’s designated officer. 

 

1. INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

1.1. Anti-Bribery Anti-Corruption Center of Excellence Limited (“Company”), herein referred to as ABAC CoE and/or ABAC Certification, is committed to adhering to the highest standards of business conduct, ethics and being compliant with the law and regulatory regime is determined to play its role to address, control and prevent the menace of bribery and corrupt practices. Company fully cognizant of its corporate social responsibility has devised this policy keeping in view the local and international laws relating to Bribery and corruption to aid Company’s CEO and staff in always ensuring strict compliance with relevant anti-bribery and corruption laws. In implementing this Policy, the Company will demonstrate its urge to preventing Bribery and corruption and establishing a zero-tolerance approach to Bribery and corruption in all aspects of its operational areas and business spheres. 

1.2. This Policy aims to ensure compliance with anti-bribery and corruption legislation in the jurisdictions the Company operates; and provide a consistent, proportionate, and effective approach to anti-bribery and corruption through an effective and viable framework of core requirements and a set of minimum standards. 

2. SCOPE OF POLICY 

2.1. The ABAC CoE’s Anti-Bribery Policy is mandatory for all its employees, agents, intermediaries, consultants, distributors, sub-contractors, suppliers, and Joint Venture partners working on the Company’s behalf anywhere in the world (“Business Partners”). Our franchise partners are also expected to conduct themselves under the standards set out in this Policy. 

2.2. It is important to read and comply with this Policy. The prevention, detection, and reporting of any bribery in any form is the responsibility of all employees across the ABAC CoE and all individuals and entities over which ABAC CoE has control. Appropriate confidential channels for employees and Business Partners are in place to report any suspicion of Bribery, these are described later in this Policy. Any failure to comply with this Policy will be treated seriously and may result in disciplinary legal action. 

3. CONSEQUENCES FOR NON-COMPLIANCE 

3.1. For Employees: 

Any act of Bribery and corruption, in whatever form is unacceptable. A legal disciplinary action against anyone who fails to comply with this Policy will be taken which may result into dismissal from service and expose the responsible to penal consequences under respective laws. 

3.2. For ABAC CoE: 

A breach of this Policy by an employee or business associate could result in the Company breaching the law. An omission or commission of an act constitutes an offence under the law of jurisdiction ABAC CoE operates can result in the business being fined and would likely lead to negative publicity and serious damage to the reputation of the Company’s brand. 

4. DEFINITIONS 

4.1. “Agent”:

Any individual, Company, firm acting as an agent, paid by the Company, acting on the Company’s behalf in doing any act entrusted and/or negotiating with Third Parties. 

4.2. “Bribery”:

A bribe is a financial advantage or other reward offered to, given to, or received by an individual or Company (whether directly or indirectly) to induce or influence that individual or Company to perform public or corporate functions or duties improperly. 

Bribery occurs when one person offers, pays, seeks, or accepts a payment, gift, favour, or a financial or other advantage from another to influence a business outcome improperly, to induce or reward improper conduct or to gain any commercial, contractual, regulatory, or personal advantage. It can be direct or indirect through Third Parties. 

4.3. “Corruption”:

An act done with intent to give some advantage inconsistent with law and wrongful or unlawful use of official position to procure some benefit or personal gain. 

4.4. “Corrupt practices”:

A corrupt practice is the offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting, directly or indirectly, anything of value to influence improperly the actions of another party. Corrupt practice(s) is a series of depraved/debased/morally degenerated acts. 

4.5. “Company”:

All subsidiaries and affiliated companies. 

4.6. “Conflict of Interest”:

Occurs when an individual or organisation is involved in multiple interests, one of which could corrupt, or be perceived to corrupt, the motivation for an act in another. 

4.7. “Donation”:

A Donation is a voluntary contribution in the form of monetary or non-monetary gifts to a fund or cause for which no return service or payment is expected or made. Contributions to industry associations or fees for memberships in organisations that serve business interests are not necessarily considered Donations. 

4.8. “Employee”:

For this Policy this includes all individuals working at all levels, including senior managers, officers, directors, employees (whether permanent, fixed-term or temporary), consultants, contractors, trainees, seconded staff, home-workers, casual workers and agency staff, volunteers, interns, agents, sponsors, or any other person associated with ABAC CoE, or any of its subsidiaries or joint ventures or their employees, wherever they are located. 

4.9. “Facilitation Payments”:

A form of Bribery in which small payments are made to expedite or facilitate a public official’s performance of a routine governmental action and not to obtain or retain business or any other undue advantage. Low- and low-income public officials typically demand facilitation payments in exchange for providing services to which one is legally entitled without such payments. 

4.10. “Gifts, Invitations & Hospitality”:

Invitations given or received to social functions, sporting events, meals and entertainment, gifts, or customary tokens of appreciation. 

4.11. “Intermediary”:

Includes but is not limited to Agents, distributors, consultants, sales representatives, implementation partners, sales partners. 

4.12. “Kickback”:

A bribe to obtain an undue advantage, where a portion of the undue advantage is ‘kicked backed’ to the person who gave, or is supposed to give, the undue advantage. 

4.13. “Public Official”:

Officials or employees of any government or other public body, agency, or legal entity, at any level, including officers or employees of state-owned enterprises and officers or employees of enterprises which are mandated by a public body or a state-owned enterprise to administrate public functions. 

4.14. “Sponsorship”:

Sponsorship is about partnering with external organisations to deliver mutual benefits through an exchange of monies, products, services, content, or other intellectual property. 

4.15. “Third Party”:

Any individual or organisation you contact during your work for ABAC CoE. This includes actual and potential customers, suppliers, business contacts, Intermediaries, government and public bodies, advisors, representatives and officials, politicians, and political parties. 

5. APPLICABLE LAWS 

5.1.1. As a Company, ABAC CoE is incorporated in and conducting its business in Pakistan, United Kingdom, United States of America and the United Arab Emirates, therefore is obliged to comply with the domestic laws of these respective countries, including but not limited to, the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1947; Pakistan Penal Code 1860 ; National Accountability Ordinance, 1999 , the Companies Act, 2017; the U.K. Bribery Act, 2010; Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 (United States of America) and the Federal Code of the U.A.E. Besides this, Company respects and adheres to international laws and instruments promulgated and adopted by the United Nations, OECD, and the European Union. 

5.1.2. ABAC CoE is subject to these statutes which equally apply to ABAC CoE and its employees and agents within or outside Pakistan, the United Kingdom, United States of America, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as to employees and agents of ABAC CoE’s subsidiaries located outside these countries. Thus, the employees, agents and all those associated with ABAC CoE must comply with these laws regardless of where you conduct business on behalf of ABAC CoE or one of its subsidiaries. Depending on location, and other factors, other Anti-Bribery and Corruption Laws may apply under the circumstances. The designated officer can be contacted in case of any doubt about applying any of these Anti-Corruption Laws. 

5.2. PAKISTAN PENAL CODE 1860 

Under sections 161 to 165 of the Pakistan Penal Code, taking gratification by a public servant other than legal remuneration in respect to any official act, or taking gratification, in order by corrupt or illegal means to influence public servant, or taking gratification, for the exercise of personal influence with a public servant or Public servant obtaining valuable thing, without consideration from person concerned in proceeding or business transacted by such public servant are Act (s) constitutes offence(s) punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine or with both. 

5.2.1. PREVENTION OF CORRUPTION ACT, 1947 

The Prevention of Corruption Act 1947 (POCA) was the first anti-corruption legislation adopted by the constituent assembly of Pakistan. POCA prohibits a public servant from accepting or obtain or agrees to accept or attempting to obtain from any persons any gratification (other than legal remuneration) for carrying out official functions he is legally bound to discharge. And in case of such occurrence the offender is burdened with criminal liability resulting into imprisonment that may be extended to seven years, or with a fine, or both. 

5.2.2. COMPANIES ACT, 2017 

The incorporation of companies in Pakistan is affected under the Companies Act, 2017, which encompasses and regulates the affairs of companies. There are statutory provisions to be complied 

with by the companies functioning in Pakistan, such as prevention of oppression and mismanagement; fraudulent preferences; prevention of offences relating to fraud, money laundering and terrorist financing; prohibition regarding making political contributions; investigation into affairs of Company and serious fraud investigation. The Act provides for the prosecution of delinquent(s), which may result in the imposition of fines and imprisonment of different terms. 

5.2.3. NATIONAL ACCOUNTABILITY BUREAU ORDINANCE, 1999 

The promulgation of the Ordinance is to check corruption and corrupt practices and hold accountable all persons accused of such practices and matters ancillary to it. N.A.B. Ordinance elaborates the corruption and corrupt practices through twelve characteristics. It includes an act to accept, obtain or offer illegal gratifications, and to accept or obtain or offer any valuable thing without consideration or with inadequate consideration by a public office holder or any other person. It also includes “persons who maintain a living standard not commensurate with their known sources of income”. N.A.B. is also empowered to commence inquiry, investigation and prosecution against the persons belonging to the private sector involved in corruption and corrupt practices. An accused person is prosecuted and punished with rigorous imprisonment for a term extending to 14 years and a fine. 

5.2.4. UK BRIBERY ACT, 2010 

U.K. Bribery Act is not restricted to bribing public officials and covers Bribery in both the private and public sectors. The U.K. Bribery Act contains two offences covering the offering, promising, or giving a bribe (active Bribery) and requesting, agreeing to receive, or accepting a bribe (passive Bribery). The U.K. Bribery Act defines a bribe as a financial or other advantage intended to induce someone to act “improperly” in the performance of a business or public function. Local written law would influence what constitutes “improper” action, but local customs and practices are disregarded. Under the U.K. Bribery Act, there is a separate offence relating to the Bribery of a foreign public official to obtain or retain business or an advantage in business conduct. Unless it is permitted in the local written law of the country concerned, an advantage offered to a foreign public official could be a bribe. It is an offence to pay facilitation payments under the U.K. Bribery Act. 

In addition, under the U.K. Bribery Act, there is a corporate offence for failing to prevent Bribery. This law provides that a company or other “commercial organisation” can be prosecuted if a person “associated with it” bribes another person intending to obtain or retain business or an advantage in the conduct of business for that organisation. An organisation could provide a defence against this offence if it had adequate procedures to prevent persons associated with it from bribing. The U.K. Bribery Act is not confined in its ambit to U.K. organisations but also extends to organisations which carry on a business or part of a business in the U.K. In the U.K., there are similar requirements to the US FCPA for maintaining adequate books and records. In the U.K., these requirements are covered by the Companies Act. 

5.4. FOREIGN CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT (UNITED STATES OF AMERICA) 1977 

The US FCPA prohibits the offer or agreement to give “anything of value” to an Official for a corrupt purpose, including gifts, entertainment, free travel, meals or training, business, employment or investment opportunities, personal discounts or credits, assistance to or support of family members, or other benefits. Any “corrupt” payment, promise or offer to pay, or authorisation of giving anything of value to or for an Official – or to anyone else while knowing it will be shared with such a person – is prohibited. 

The US FCPA also prohibits corrupt payments to anyone while “knowing” that all or part of the payment will be passed on to an Official. This means that a company may be held responsible for actions by any party acting on its behalf, such as a sales agent, consultant, or joint venture partner. The US FCPA includes an exception for payments that are “reasonable and bona fide expenditures” incurred by or on behalf of an Official. A “reasonable and bona fide expenditure” is an expense, such as for transportation or lodging directly related to the promotion, demonstration, or explanation of products or services; or the execution or performance of a contract with a government or governmental agency. Reasonable and appropriate gifts, hospitality and entertainment for an Official are also permissible, if they are not offered or understood as an attempt to influence the Official in the performance (or non-performance) of his or her official duties or to induce the Official to use his or her influence in connection with the business. In addition to prohibiting corrupt offers and payments, the US FCPA requires companies to keep accurate books and records and establish adequate internal controls. 

5.5. FEDERAL PENAL CODE (UNITED ARAB EMIRATES) 1987 

U.A.E. has had anti-bribery legislation in place since 1987, in the form of the U.A.E. Federal Penal Code (the “Code”). The Code is the main federal law which regulates anti-bribery practices in the U.A.E. Articles 234 to 239 of the Code contain provisions which criminalise the Bribery or attempted Bribery of both public and private sector employees. Under the provisions of the Code, a bribe would be anything that confers a benefit on a public or private sector employee with the intent to procure that such employee acts in a way that violates the duties assigned to his function or to commit an act which falls outside such duties (a “Bribe” or “Bribery” as the context requires). 

The 2005 amendments to the Federal Penal Code made it possible to proceed with criminal actions against private sector personnel who solicited bribes. The acts of the authorities were not restricted to the private sector. Many individuals throughout the U.A.E. who engaged in corrupt conduct in the private and public sectors have been subject to investigation and prosecution. Corrupt activities are no longer tolerated or overlooked. 

The U.A.E. is a signatory to the United Nations Convention against Corruption, adopted by the U.N. General Assembly in 2003 and the Arab Anti-Corruption Convention, adopted by the League of Arab States in 2010. 

5.6. CONVENTION ON COMBATING BRIBERY OF FOREIGN PUBLIC OFFICIALS IN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS TRANSACTIONS (OECD) 1997 

The Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) has attempted to level the playing field for foreign companies competing for business outside their home country by adopting the Convention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions (the Convention) and the 1997 Revised Recommendation of the Council on Combating Bribery in International Business Transactions (the Recommendation). While these documents have provided a strong foundation for a coordinated effort to curb the economic impact of Bribery in international business, the uniform and effective implementation of these documents are a serious, if not insurmountable, challenge. 

5.7. UNITED NATIONS CONVENTION AGAINST CORRUPTION (UNCAC) 2003 

The Convention covers five main areas: preventive measures, criminalisation and law enforcement, international cooperation, asset recovery, technical assistance, and information exchange. The Convention covers many forms of corruption, such as Bribery, trading in influence, abuse of functions, and various acts of corruption in the private sector. 

6. THE PRINCIPLES 

6.1 PROPORTIONATE PROCEDURES 

The Company’s bribery prevention procedures are proportionating to and focused on the risks it faces (including those from its associates). The Company already has in place various policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the Company’s regulatory obligations. Current policies and procedures in place that are considered to reinforce the Company’s commitment to an anti-bribery culture include the following: 

1. (i) Code of Business Conduct 
2. (ii) Conflicts of Interest Policy 
3. (iii) Corporate Social Responsibility Policy 
4. (iv) Business Partners Policy 
5. (v) Whistle-blower Policy 

6.2 TOP-LEVEL COMMITMENT 

6.1.1. The directors of the Company perform ‘controlled functions. A commitment to regulatory requirements contemplated in the applicable laws is already inherent in the culture of the Company and its Senior Personnel. 

6.1.2. Senior Personnel receive regular risk control reports and company compliance with its obligations under the regulatory system. The latter will include compliance with the Company’s Anti-Bribery Policy. 

6.3 RISK ASSESSMENT 

6.3.1. Company’s business model is one of developing and maintaining long-term relationships with its clients. Any new business won by us will result from our direct involvement, although it may involve the use of intermediaries. 

6.3.2. In seeking to develop or accept business from individuals or entities in other jurisdictions, the Company is fully aware of its anti-bribery and corruption obligations, which demand that reasonable due diligence be undertaken of those other persons or entities. Keeping the assessment of the bribery risk up to date is important. The Company already has processes to identify, manage, and monitor the risk it is or might be exposed. 

6.4 DUE DILIGENCE 

6.4.1. Due diligence is expected of Company in respect of persons who perform or will perform services on its behalf (“associated persons”) to mitigate any bribery risk. 

6.4.2. Although Company has assessed its bribery risk as low, appropriate due diligence is currently a feature of our normal business approach. Our anti-bribery regulatory obligations require appropriate due diligence when establishing a business relationship with a customer. In addition, when relying on a third party for the performance of critical operational functions, Company must take reasonable steps to avoid additional operational risk. An essential element of the due diligence process is ensuring that written documentation sets out the nature of services being provided, costs and, where relevant, commissions, fees, and preferred means of remuneration. 

6.4.3. In any event, even where not required by regulation, sound business practice means that Company will always undertake appropriate due diligence of the other party. 

6.5. SPECIAL CONCERNS CONCERNING JOINT VENTURES AND OTHER BUSINESS COMBINATIONS 

6.5.1. ABAC CoE risks under Anti-Corruption Laws concerning joint ventures and other business combinations will vary by location and whether ABAC CoE will be the operating partner or is acquiring an existing operation. Where ABAC CoE will be the operating partner, this Policy and its procedures will be implemented. Where ABAC CoE is acquiring an existing operation, ABAC CoE must perform appropriate due diligence on the existing operation and its compliance with applicable anti-corruption laws. This due diligence includes history and compliance representations and warranties. Where ABAC CoE is not the operator, or when there is a risk that a non-operating partner may represent the joint Company, the operating agreement between ABAC CoE and its venture partners must, to the extent feasible, include appropriate language obligating the business partners to comply with this Policy and all applicable Anti-Corruption Laws. 

6.6 COMMUNICATION (INCLUDING TRAINING) 

6.6.1. This Policy is circulated to all staff, and all staff must read and understand this, Policy. 

6.6.2. In addition, the Company recognises the importance of regulatory training for all staff and regular training, in addition to induction training for fresh staff, including topics such as money laundering and knowing your customer requirements. Although Company has assessed its bribery risk as ‘low’ due to the nature of its business, ‘bribery’ is included in the regular training provided by the Company. 

6.7. MONITORING AND REVIEW 

6.7.1. As an incorporated and regulated company, ABAC CoE has a monitoring programme in place. The monitoring, which is performed by appropriate review of documentation etc. and sampling where necessary, is to determine whether Company’s processes and procedures are sufficiently sound to ensure adherence to its obligations under the regulatory regime. 

6.7.2. Company will consider the views and comments of employees, key business partners and its compliance consultants and incorporate them into the continuing improvement of Anti-Bribery Policies, about how it can continue to operate effective monitoring and review. 

6.8. REPORTING CONCERNS, INCLUDING WHISTLE-BLOWING 

6.8.1. All employees and others associated with the Company are encouraged to report any concerns that they may have regarding potential breaches of this Policy, including incidents relating to external agencies and third parties. This includes any instances where you may be the victim of attempted Bribery. 

6.8.2. The Company is fully committed to ensuring that there is a safe and confidential method of reporting any suspected wrongdoing to nominated officers. The Company’s Whistle-blowing Policy on www.abacgroup.com provides a procedure to be followed. The Company also permits employees, and anyone contractually associated with the Company to raise concerns of malpractice in the Company and those involving partners or competitors. 

6.8.3. Any misconduct allegations under this Policy within the Company’s jurisdiction will be taken very seriously. If appropriate, action may be taken under the Company’s disciplinary process. Attempted Bribery or acceptance of a bribe may be considered gross misconduct, and where it is considered that a criminal offence has occurred, the police may be informed. 

6.9. OVERSIGHT AND MANAGEMENT

6.9.1. While responsibility for anti-bribery rests with the Company’s senior management, the Scheme Function will oversee the day-to-day implementation and operation of this Anti-Bribery Policy. Employees should report any breach of this Policy to this person unless it is not appropriate, in which case the breach should be reported to another senior staff member. Upon an incidence of Bribery, the Scheme Function will oversee the Company’s response and decide how or whether to respond. 

7. PROHIBITIONS 

7.1.FACILITATION PAYMENTS & KICKBACKS 

Facilitation payments (‘facilitating’, ‘speed’, ‘back-hander’ or ‘grease’) are any payments, usually small cash payments made to low-level officials, as a bribe to secure or expedite the performance of a routine or necessary action or level of service. ABAC CoE employees or Business Partners / Associates must never offer, pay, solicit, or accept bribes, including facilitation payments. 

Exception: The only exception to paying a facilitation payment is where your life is in danger. If a facilitation payment is made in such circumstances, it must be reported as soon as practicable or possible to the Scheme Function so that it can be recorded. 

ABAC CoE employees and Business Partners should report, via the compliance hotline, any instance where a facilitation payment is alleged to have been paid on the Company’s behalf. 

Tel: +92 51 080 000 274 / +971 800 274 552. 

7.2.GIFTS, HOSPITALITY AND ENTERTAINMENT 

All ABAC CoE employees are expected to conduct themselves with integrity, impartiality, and honesty always. Accordingly, all employees must follow these Gifts, Hospitality and Entertainment rules. In addition, employees of ABAC CoE Joint Ventures or subsidiaries, whether in Pakistan, U.A.E., U.K. or elsewhere, are required to follow these standards. We also

expect employees of our franchise partners and suppliers to conduct themselves following these standards. 

You must maintain a high standard of professionalism and not open yourself up to suspicion of dishonesty or put yourself in a position of conflict between your work and your private interests. Gifts and entertainment given and received as a reward, inducement, or encouragement for preferential treatment, or inappropriate or dishonest conduct are strictly prohibited. No gifts, hospitality or entertainment may be given or accepted during a tender process or contractual negotiations if there is any real risk that such gifts or entertainment could influence the outcome of such processes or negotiations. 

It is important that all ABAC CoE employees’ actions can withstand scrutiny and not cause embarrassment to the Company, yourself or any third party, including contractors or suppliers. 

7.2.1. RECEIVING AND GIVING GIFTS 

You may accept low-value token gifts such as branded pens, stationery and mouse mats produced to be given away if given by an existing supplier. Occasional boxes of confectionary boxes, etc., may be given to a department instead of an individual. Otherwise, you must refuse personal gifts such as Christmas, wedding, or birthday gifts, including vouchers or cash equivalents, from franchise partners, suppliers, clients and other third parties. 

Any gifts offered must be acceptable within the Policy of the receiver’s company/organisation, and if you doubt acceptability, no gift should be provided. 

7.2.2. HOSPITALITY/ENTERTAINMENT 

ABAC CoE employees may occasionally receive invitations from suppliers or others to corporate hospitality or entertainment events. Hospitality or entertainment may only be accepted if employees or personnel from the supplier are in attendance; the supplier does not pay any accommodation or (more than trivial) travel expenses for ABAC CoE employees; the entertainment and acceptance of it could not be interpreted as a reward, inducement or encouragement for a favour or preferential treatment; and it is not unduly extravagant. Reciprocal hospitality may be offered but needs to be approved by the HEAD OF DEPARTMENT. 

7.2.3. HOSPITALITY AND ENTERTAINMENT REGISTER 

All hospitality and entertainment must be recorded in the relevant Hospitality and Entertainment Register every month to ensure openness and transparency. These registers will be reviewed by the Business Unit Director quarterly and reported to the CEO annually. 

7.3. POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS OR DONATIONS 

ABAC CoE does not make contributions or donations to political organisations or independent candidates, nor does it incur any political expenditure. The Company respects individual employees’ right to make personal contributions, provided they are not made to obtain an advantage in a business transaction. ABAC CoE communicates views to the government and others on matters that affect its business interests or those of its shareholders and employees to assist in developing regulations and legislation affecting the business. 

7.3.1. CHARITABLE DONATIONS 

The Company believes in contributing to the communities in which it does business. You may make reasonable donations to local or foreign charities on behalf of the Company, but you should ensure that the donation benefits a government official or violates this, Policy. Therefore, all donations should follow ABAC CoE charitable donations and community investment guidelines, prohibiting donations that would improperly benefit a government official. 

7.4. THIRD-PARTY PAYMENTS 

You cannot pay to a third-party representative or intermediary (such as an agent or consultant) which you believe might be forwarded to a government official or used to benefit or bribe a government official. The acts of the agent will be considered your acts and, as well, the acts of the Company. To help ensure that the Company’s agents understand and follow this Policy, you must follow the compliance procedures established by the Company for retaining third parties. 

8. OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES 

8.1.1. It is not acceptable for you (or someone on your behalf) to threaten or retaliate against another Employee who has refused to commit a bribery offence or who has raised concerns under this Policy or engage in any activity that might lead to a breach of this Policy or perceived breach of this Policy. 

8.1.2. It is your responsibility to ensure that all accounts, invoices, memoranda and other documents and records relating to dealings with Third Parties, such as clients, suppliers, and business contacts, should be prepared and maintained with strict accuracy and completeness. No accounts must be kept ‘off-book’. 

8.1.3. You must declare and keep a written record of all Gifts, Invitations & Hospitality according to Company practice accepted or offered, subject to managerial review. 

8.2 CONFLICT OF INTEREST 

Conflict of interest is a situation ‘in which the employee(s) of the company has a private interest which is such as to influence or appear to influence, the impartial and objective performance of his or her official duties, private interest being understood to mean ‘any advantage to himself or herself, to his or her family, close relatives, friends and persons or organisations with whom he or she has or has had business or political relations.’ The Company’s employees and associated persons are prohibited from acting for their interest/gain in derogating and contrary to this Policy. During business, if any such situation arises, it should be disclosed and reported to the Scheme Function. 

9. MAKING A DISCLOSURE 

9.1.1. The individual should make the disclosure, in writing, to the Designated Person or Head of the Department. The Designated Person or Head of Department will be responsible for keeping the Chief Executive Officer informed. The disclosure should explicitly state that this Policy raises the concern. The disclosure should contain sufficient information to demonstrate that reasonable grounds for the allegation exist. 

9.1.2. The Designated Person or Head of Department will, in consultation with the Company Secretary (if different) and the Chief Executive Officer (as appropriate), consider the information made available to them and decide on the investigation form undertaken. 

9.1.3. Where the matter is to be the subject of an internal inquiry, the Designated Person or Head of Department will then consider how to conclude whether there is a prima facie case to answer. This consideration will include determining who should undertake the investigation, the procedure to be followed, and the concluding report’s scope. 

9.1.4. Normally, the Internal Auditors or others independent of the Senior Management of the Company will undertake this investigation and report their findings to the Designated Person. Any investigation will be conducted as sensitively and speedily as possible. 

9.1.5. As a result of this investigation, other internal procedures may be invoked, such as disciplinary procedures, grievance or complaints procedures, and harassment procedures. Alternatively, it might form the basis of a special investigation. In some instances, it might be necessary to refer the matter to an external authority for further investigation. 

9.2. FEEDBACK 

9.2.1. All written responses to the individual will be sent to their home address. The Scheme Function will send a written acknowledgement of the concern to the individual and will inform the individual making the disclosure (and as the case may be) the Chief Executive Officer of what action, if any, is to be taken. If no action is to be taken, then the individual concerned should be informed of the reason for this and allowed the opportunity to make written representations to the Chief Executive Officer, who will consider all the information presented, the procedures that were followed, and the reasons for not taking any further action. The outcome of this will be either to confirm that no further action is required or that further investigation is required and will follow the procedures referred to above. 

9.2.2. Where disclosure is made, the person or persons against it will normally be told of it, and the evidence supporting it and will normally be allowed to comment before any investigation, or further action, is concluded. 

10. SPEAKING UP – REPORTING ISSUES OF BRIBERY 

10.1.1. ABAC CoE aims to conduct business with the highest standards of ethics, honesty and integrity and recognises that you have an important role in maintaining this aim. Any employee concerned about malpractice, improper action, or wrongdoing by the Company, its employees or other stakeholders is strongly encouraged to report the matter through the dedicated Employee Assistance Programme staff helpline. 

10.1.2. We believe it is essential to create an environment in which you feel able to raise any matters of genuine concern internally without fear of disciplinary action being taken against you, that you will be taken seriously, and that the matters will be investigated appropriately and as far as practicable be kept confidential. 

1. 10.1.5. If you need to raise the issue outside your immediate working environment, contact the Scheme function at huma.k@abacgroup.com. The Scheme Function will record the concern and determine the appropriate approach to managing any investigation, including whether to appoint an external independent individual to review the matter or refer it to the appropriate internal or external body. The Scheme functions will inform the C.E.O. of any serious issues as a matter of urgency. 

10.1.3. ABAC CoE believes that any employee with knowledge of Bribery should not remain silent. We take all matters of malpractice, improper action, or wrongdoing very seriously, and you are strongly encouraged to raise incidents or behaviours that are not following the Policy. First, you should consider raising your concerns with the designated officer. Concerns can be raised verbally or in writing. Scheme Function will determine whether they can investigate the concern directly, keeping the Company Secretary updated, if appropriate, on progress and its conclusion. 

10.1.4. If you feel that you cannot raise your concern with your manager, for whatever reason, you should contact the senior manager in your business unit, who will consider the matter, manage any investigation, keep the Scheme Function informed, if appropriate, of progress and its conclusion. 

10.2. EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMME: CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEE HELPLINE 

If you wish to raise a concern using the confidential employee helpline as the nature of the concern is such that you feel it cannot be raised internally, or if you feel that, after reporting the concern internally, the matter remains unresolved, you can raise the concern via the Company’s confidential employee helpline on +92 51 111 888 400. 

The Company recognises that there may be some cases where no wrongdoing is found through internal procedures. Protection will be given, and no disciplinary action will be taken if the disclosure is reasonable, made in good faith, and the information is believed to be true. 

10.3. CEO REVIEW 

The Scheme Function reviews arrangements by which employees may confidently raise concerns about the possible inappropriate activity. The Scheme Function reviews concerns raised through the hotlines to ensure that any significant matters receive an independent investigation and appropriate follow-up action. The Scheme Function reports any information on allegations and investigation results to the C.E.O. at least once a year. 

11. PROTECTION 

10.1. Employees who refuse to participate in Bribery or corruption or report in good faith under this Policy their suspicion that an actual or potential bribery or other corruption offence has occurred or may take place in the future will be protected from detrimental treatment/retaliation. Detrimental treatment includes dismissal, disciplinary action, threats, or other unfavourable treatment connected with raising a concern. 

12. ADEQUATE RECORDS; ADEQUATE CONTROLS 

12.1. ABAC CoE will maintain accurate books and records and establish an adequate internal accounting control system. The Company’s general accounting policies and internal audit procedures will ensure compliance with these requirements. Nonetheless, employees should follow all applicable standards, principles, laws, and the Company’s practices for accounting and financial reporting involving any domestic or international transaction. Employees should be timely and thorough when preparing all reports and records required by management. Finally, employees should not prepare or accept false records or invoices from third-party suppliers of services. 

12.2. ABAC CoE, the internal audit group, will conduct regular compliance audits to prevent and detect violations of Anti-Corruption Laws and ABAC CoE policies, practices, and procedures. Some of these audits will be unannounced. In addition to the regular audits, there may be individual instances where ABAC CoE wishes to investigate a certain matter. In these events, the Scheme function may obtain the assistance of any ABAC CoE employee and is authorised to retain accounting firms, outside counsel, or others, as deemed necessary, at the discretion of the Scheme Function. Department. 

13. COMPLIANCE AND TRAINING 

13.1.1. The Scheme Function, together with a representative of the Human Resources Department, has assessed and designated certain persons and positions (“Affected Parties”) to train on this Policy. The assessment criteria included such factors as (i) position within the Company; (ii) being members of departments identified as substantial risk based on the potential for a violation of Anti-Corruption Laws; (iii) having dealings in high-risk jurisdictions; and (iv) potential for direct or indirect contact with a government official. In addition, Affected Parties include third-party consultants, suppliers, and service providers with direct or indirect contact with government officials. 

13.1.2. Affected Parties must certify that they have received a copy of this Policy, read, and understand it, and completed the Company’s online training. Certain ABAC CoE Affected Parties in high-risk departments will periodically receive additional in-person training. All Affected Parties will be required to train on this Policy every two years and complete a new certification annually. 

13.1.3. Employees who violate this Policy or the procedures under this Policy are subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination. Third parties—including consultants, agents, and intermediaries—who violate this Policy are subject to the termination of all commercial contracts. 

13.1.4. Third Party Consultants, Suppliers and Service Providers who have developed their anti-corruption Policy and provide training under that Policy, in each case on a basis equivalent to that contemplated by this Policy, will not be required to take the ABAC CoE training. However, they must certify their compliance with the ABAC CoE’s Policies. 

14. GOVERNANCE 

14.1.1. The Chief Executive Officer is responsible for ensuring this Policy complies with Company’s legal and ethical obligations and that all those under our control comply. 

14.1.2. Heads of Departments have primary and day-to-day responsibility for implementing this Policy and monitoring its use and effectiveness. Management at all levels is responsible for ensuring those reporting to them is aware of and understand this Policy and are given adequate and regular training. This training shall also be given to Intermediaries. 

15. MONITORING AND REVIEW 

15.1. The Company will establish and place appropriate performance measures and reporting systems to monitor performance against metrics and compliance with the relevant policies, procedures, and controls. 

15.2. Scheme Function will monitor the effectiveness and review the implementation of this Policy in coordination with Heads of the Department, regularly considering its suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness. Any improvements identified will be made as soon as possible. 

15.3. Internal control systems and procedures will be subject to regular audits to ensure they are effective. Scheme Function will report to the Chief Executive Officer at least annually on the application of this Policy. 

16. IMPLEMENTATION GUIDELINES 

16.1. The best way to get clarification on the Policy, ask a question, clear a transaction, or report a violation is to directly contact your supervisor or the applicable Scheme Function (contact information is set out in Appendix A) by telephone or e-mail. Please have all available information ready to avoid unnecessary delays in response. 

16.2. If you are reporting a violation and are uncomfortable for any reason in reporting a violation to your supervisor and a Scheme Function, or wish for anonymity and confidentiality, a toll-free 24-hour hotline and website administered by an independent company, is maintained for employees to report violations. The website address and hotline number for your location are set out in Appendix A. 

17. AMENDMENT OF THE POLICY 

ABAC CoE is committed to consistently reviewing and updating its policies and procedures based on the learning given changed legal regimes and circumstances. This becomes more important and desirable upon entering a new market/sector/country, which may pose a risk under this Policy. The Scheme Function/H.R. team will monitor the effectiveness and review the implementation of this Policy, regularly considering its suitability, adequacy, and effectiveness. Any improvements identified will be made as soon as possible. Nonetheless, this policy/document is subject to amendment, modification, and variation. Any amendment, variation, or waiver of any provision of this Policy must be approved in writing by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer. The Policy will be reviewed and audited from time to time, requiring cooperation from all concerned. 

18. GROUP POLICIES AND RELATED DOCUMENTS 

The Policy should be read in conjunction with ABAC CoE’s other policy documents.