California Transparency in Supply Chains Act (S.B. 657) Statement

Merck Corporation strongly believes in the importance of international labor and human rights standards and opposes any and all illegal and unethical treatment of people, including any acts of slavery or human trafficking. We do not knowingly employ slaves or trafficked persons. In our written contracts and terms and conditions of purchase, we require our suppliers to comply with all applicable laws. Further, our internal supplier audit program evaluates and addresses risks of slavery and trafficking. In addition, in 2012, we will investigate opportunities (1) to require direct suppliers to certify in writing that materials incorporated into the product comply with the laws regarding slavery and human trafficking of the country or countries in which they are doing business, (2) to maintain internal accountability standards and procedures for employees or contractors failing to meet our standards regarding slavery and trafficking, and (3) to provide company employees and management, who have direct responsibility for supply chain management, with training on human trafficking and slavery, particularly with respect to mitigating risks within the supply chains of products. To read the full Senate Bill, click here.