Congo Takes Apple To Court Over Alleged ‘Blood Minerals’ Use

 

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has filed criminal complaints against Apple subsidiaries, accusing the tech giant of using conflict minerals in its supply chain.

Lawyers representing the Congolese government, who submitted the complaints in France and Belgium, alleged that Apple is complicit in crimes committed by armed groups controlling some mines in eastern DRC.

In their statement, the lawyers described Apple’s supply chain as tainted by “blood minerals,” alleging that tin, tantalum, and tungsten extracted from conflict zones are “laundered through international supply chains.”

They claim these activities “have fueled cycles of violence, funded militias and terrorist groups, and contributed to forced child labor and environmental devastation.”

Apple, in its 2023 review, stated that it actively monitors its supply chain and enforces measures to trace the origins of minerals.

In its filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Apple reaffirmed its commitment to preventing the use of conflict minerals, stating:

“Although Apple does not directly purchase, procure, or source primary minerals, we are committed to meeting and exceeding internationally accepted due diligence standards for primary minerals and recycled materials in our supply chain.”

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The report further highlighted Apple’s due diligence measures: “As part of its due diligence, Apple mandates that all parties in its supply chain undergo an ‘independent third-party conflict minerals audit.'”

In 2023, Apple took decisive action, stating: “Apple took decisive action by removing 14 smelters and refiners from its supply chain, citing non-compliance with responsible sourcing standards.”

Authorities in France and Belgium are currently evaluating the evidence to determine whether further legal action is warranted, according to BBC reports.

The eastern DRC remains a significant source of essential minerals, with global demand contributing to prolonged conflict in the region.

Apple has yet to respond to a request for comment from the BBC.