The statements were translated from Portuguese. The original text can be read here.
Toyota (Brazil)
Toyota vehemently condemns any form of labor analogous to slavery and maintains strict ethical standards across its entire value chain.
Globally, the automaker implements policies and due diligence mechanisms to prevent human rights violations, using tools such as specific contractual clauses, periodic audits, and compliance programs aligned with the highest international standards and practices.
Regarding Toyota do Brasil, the company clarifies that its operations are independent from other Toyota units worldwide and therefore it has no influence over the supplier network of Toyota Motor North America (TMNA).
Viena
Viena Siderúrgica rejects any form of worker exploitation and does not cooperate with suppliers who fail to comply with the law. Since 2014, the company has been part of InPACTO (National Pact for the Eradication of Slave Labor). Its commercial relationship with units associated with Mr. Sirlei Martins Amaral took place only with plants licensed by the competent authorities, and as soon as inspections were reported, the company removed those suppliers from its roster.
Over 80% of the charcoal used in the steel plant comes from its own production, which follows the highest standards of quality and compliance with environmental and labor laws. The remainder is purchased from suppliers subject to audits, contractual termination clauses, and consultation of the Ministry of Labor’s “Dirty List.” Viena continues to strengthen and invest in traceability, monitoring, and social initiatives, reaffirming its commitment to a responsible and sustainable supply chain and cooperating continuously with authorities and competent institutions.
Sirlei Martins Amaral (Legal Advisory of Sirlei Martins Amaral)
Mr. Sirlei Martins Amaral, known as “Ferinha,” through his legal defense, publicly strongly rejects the unfounded and baseless accusations circulated against him and seeks to reaffirm the truth of the facts, respecting public opinion and his personal and business integrity. In November 2022, Mr. Amaral was subject to preventive detention, later revoked; the press itself reports that the case was filed in August 2023 due to lack of evidence supporting the accusation.
Mr. Amaral has never condoned such practices and rejects any attempt to attribute criminal conduct to him without proof. Regarding the amounts of environmental fines imposed by Ibama, while high, they are still under appeal, with no final decision rendered. Using administrative fines as if they were definitive convictions is abusive and contrary to due process. His defense also notes that Mr. Amaral’s inclusion on the so-called “Dirty List” is being legally challenged for violating fundamental rights, particularly due process, the right to a full defense, and the presumption of innocence. Importantly, there is no criminal conviction against Mr. Amaral.
Regarding operations, Mr. Sirlei clarifies that the production units in question have long been deactivated. Therefore, attempts to link him to alleged ongoing irregular practices are false and defamatory. Finally, he reiterates that he does not condone any criminal conduct and will, through legal proceedings, prove his innocence and demonstrate that he did not contribute to the events described, committing to pursue all legal avenues to protect his honor and business career.
Vale
Vale reaffirms its non-negotiable commitment to respecting and promoting human rights in all its activities. This directive extends throughout its value chain, guiding the conduct of partners, clients, and suppliers, as set forth in its Global Human Rights Policy. Commercial relationships are governed by contractual clauses that establish clear commitments regarding human rights. Proven breaches of these obligations will result in justified contract termination, without prejudice to reporting to competent authorities and the application of other legal and contractual sanctions.
