Ubon Sunflower Company Limited (UBS), a subsidiary of Ubon Bio Ethanol Public Company Limited or UBE, the largest well-integrated tapioca player in the northeast region of Thailand using cassava roots as raw materials, successfully completed the SMETA (Sedex Members Ethical Trade Audit) assessment, earning membership in SEDEX (Supplier Ethical Data Exchange). This achievement underscores UBS's commitment to conducting business in accordance with the principles of good corporate governance, guided by systematic ethical guidelines. These guidelines encompass fair treatment of labor, with a strong emphasis on safety and health standards, reflecting UBS's ongoing dedication to social responsibility. Aligned with the strategic vision of "UBEYOND" in the realm of Beyond Sustainability, UBS is steadfast in its journey towards becoming a fully sustainable organization across all dimensions.

Mr. Suphat Jeensuksaeng, Executive Vice President of Corporate Human Resource and Organization Development of UBE and its subsidiaries stated that “UBS has undergone a SMETA audit, focusing on two pillars: labor standards and safety and health standards. This assessment evaluates the ethical practices of stakeholders within and beyond the organization's supply chain. Successfully passing such an assessment instills confidence in customers, showcasing UBS as a dependable organization that adheres to the policies of the UBE Group, emphasizing labor importance, standardized management practices, safety, and health care, as well as ethical business conduct across the entire supply chain. Aligned with the organization's strategic plan to achieve sustainability, UBS is committed to the "UBE CARE, we pay attention...we care" project, emphasizing holistic responsibility encompassing economic, societal, and environmental dimensions. Joining SEDEX will grant UBS access to tools and services enhancing transparency, mitigating risks, and identifying opportunities for more efficient operations. This membership also offers fresh perspectives to elevate UBS's SMETA assessment to a four-pillar level, encompassing additional aspects such as environmental management and business ethics, fortifying the foundation for the group's sustainable growth trajectory. Ultimately, UBS aspires to lead the international arena in sustainable energy and food products, setting a benchmark for future industry leaders.

The SMETA Assessment, developed by SEDEX, serves as a methodology for scrutinizing supply chain networks, evaluating and quantifying a company's adherence to social and environmental standards. Conducted by seasoned professionals, this assessment methodology encompasses on-site inspections and observations, interviews with executives and employees, as well as the review of company-prepared documents, among other evaluation criteria.