Jakarta, 20 December 2017 - The Associated Press has made serious unsubstantiated allegations against Asia Pulp & Paper, that cast APP in a negative light. This is deeply disappointing.
We had indicated to AP that APP would reply. Given that the allegations were serious, and the issues were complex, it required significant background checks, AP was better advised to wait for the response rather than put the story without the necessary balance.
These articles veer towards sensationalism rather than investigative journalism. We are now considering our options, including legal, and will respond to the story.
APP's relationship with its suppliers is guided by our Forest Conservation Policy and our zero deforestation pledge.
All companies and any prospective suppliers are required to meet our Responsible Fibre Procurement and Processing Policy (RFPPP) and FCP and our policy commitment on the Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) of local communities.
All supplier companies, regardless of ownership must comply strictly to our RFPPP and FCP policy.