However many countries take corruption seriously. The UK and the USA are not alone in having tough anti-bribery laws. In most export markets, companies can be just as easily prosecuted for bribing to win contracts.

Adopting good business ethics is no different to compliance in other areas. Once embedded into a company’s DNA and business strategy, an ethical approach will deliver business benefit; be that gaining competitive edge or exporting with less risk. Whatever, it will reduce reputation and personal risk for directors and executives.

The UK Bribery Act 2010 has principles based guidance, which can be implemented as appropriate, to mitigate the particular bribery risks a company might encounter. The Guidance can be found here and the six principles are:

1.    Proportionate Procedures – Clear, practical policies and procedures

2.    Top level commitment - top down culture where bribery is unacceptable

3.    Risk assessment - assessment of both external and internal risk

4.    Due diligence – really knowing with whom you are doing business

5.    Communication (including training) – embedding the messages

6.    Monitoring and review - auditing and financial controls

Interchange will help your company identify what is needed so it can benefit from implementing these "adequate procedures".

Interchange provides:

• Executive Education, Training and E Learning - from directors to employees
• Ethical Risk Audit - risk assessment and advice to large or small companies
• Integrity Due Diligence - agents, intermediaries, suppliers and in M&A 
• Policy, Process and Documentation - practical, readable and sensitive to other cultures  

There may be other issues we can help you with, such as confidential advice on business ethics, disclosure and enforcement matters.