The Sumitomo Spirit

Sumitomo Chemical dates back to the “House of Sumitomo,” a business with a history spanning for about 400 years. The fundamental principles the business was founded on are upheld as “The Sumitomo Spirit” to this day.

  • Sumitomo's Business Principles 1. Sumitomo shall achieve prosperity based on solid foundation by placing prime importance on integrity and sound management in the conduct of its business. 2. Sumitomo's business interest must always be in harmony with public interest; Sumitomo shall adapt to good times and bad times but will not pursue immoral business.

The first pledge in Sumitomo's Business Principles, advocating integrity and sound management, reflects the importance of maintaining the trust of the Company's business partners and of society as a whole. The second pledge calls for refraining from the pursuit of easy gains–conducting thorough investigations and giving serious thought to business decisions so as not to be blinded by the prospect of immediate gains.

While not expressly stated, another traditional concept applies: harmony between the individual, the nation and society. Sumitomo manifests this concept by seeking to benefit not only its own business, but also both the nation and society, and by the Company's emphasis on maintaining harmony between its interests and those of the public.

To this day, these principles are strictly applied throughout the various Sumitomo Group companies, including Sumitomo Chemical.