The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is demanding transparency from Apple regarding its supply chain, alleging it may contain conflict minerals mined in the war-torn eastern region.
International lawyers representing the DRC sent a formal notice to Apple CEO Tim Cook on April 22nd, 2024, expressing concerns about potential human rights violations linked to the sourcing of minerals like tin, tungsten, and tantalum (3T minerals) used in Apple products.
The DRC has a long history of violence fueled by the control of mineral resources.
These minerals, crucial for electronics like smartphones and computers, are often smuggled through neighboring countries like Rwanda, Uganda, and Burundi.
This illicit trade has financed armed groups and contributed to the deaths of millions since the 1990s.
Congo’s President, Felix Tshisekedi, commissioned law firm Amsterdam & Partners LLP to investigate the 3T mineral trade in September 2023.
The investigation raised concerns about illegal exports and led to questioning Apple’s claims of responsible sourcing.
The lawyers argue that Rwanda’s reported 3T mineral production is negligible, suggesting potential inconsistencies in Apple’s supply chain.
Apple, however, maintains its commitment to ethical sourcing. They point to their latest Conflict Minerals Report, which states that all identified smelters and refiners in their 2023 supply chain underwent independent audits. Additionally, the report claims no evidence linking their suppliers to armed groups in the DRC or neighboring countries.
This accusation coincides with a separate report by Amsterdam & Partners LLP alleging that Rwanda and private entities are laundering conflict minerals from Congo.
The situation highlights the complex challenges surrounding mineral sourcing in conflict zones. Both the DRC and Rwanda remain silent on the accusations. The DRC holds the title of leading tantalum producer globally, followed by Rwanda. It’s also the world’s top producer of copper and cobalt, vital for electric car batteries.
With the vast majority of these resources concentrated in the DRC’s volatile east, resolving the conflict mineral issue seems intricately tied to finding solutions to the ongoing violence.
