Apple Denies Allegations of Conflict Mineral Use, Halts Purchases from DRC and Rwanda
Apple has firmly rejected allegations that it uses conflict minerals in its products, following a criminal complaint filed by the Congolese government in France and Belgium.
The company stated on Tuesday that it had instructed its suppliers earlier this year to cease sourcing tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. This decision was reportedly prompted by escalating conflict in the region.
In a statement to Reuters, Apple clarified its stance: “We require our suppliers’ smelters and refiners to stop purchasing these minerals from the two countries as part of our commitment to ethical sourcing and human rights.”
READ ALSO:DRC Files Criminal Complaints Against Apple Over Conflict Minerals
The allegations claim that Apple uses conflict minerals laundered through international supply chains. Apple maintains that it has a robust supply chain monitoring system in place to prevent the use of minerals linked to conflict or human rights abuses.
SOURCE:miningweekly.com
