Kumiai Chemical Industry names ARK LLC as new accounting auditor

Kumiai Chemical Industry announced a change in its accounting auditor, effective January 28, 2026, pending approval at the 77th Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. The company's Audit & Supervisory Board resolved on December 5, 2025, to appoint ARK LLC, located in Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, with engagement partners Yoshio Hinazuru and Yoshikazu Matsumoto. This decision followed a comprehensive review of ARK LLC's expertise, independence, quality control, and audit fees.

The outgoing auditor, Fuyou Audit Corporation, based in Shizuoka-shi, Shizuoka, will conclude its term after serving since 1983. Its current engagement partners are Jun Suzuki and Gaku Suzuki. The decision to change auditors, despite Fuyou Audit Corporation's appropriate audit performance, was based on the long tenure and a comprehensive assessment of the company's evolving business environment.

Kumiai Chemical Industry's Audit & Supervisory Board deemed the appointment of ARK LLC appropriate, citing its suitability to serve as the new accounting auditor. The Board of Directors is scheduled to officially approve the proposal on December 12, 2025, for submission to shareholders.