Apple Inc. has announced the suspension of its tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold (3TG) supply from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda.
The company says the decision was taken as violence escalated in the region, but also comes amid legal challenges after criminal complaints were filed against the tech giant by the DRC government, accusing Apple of using conflict minerals in its products.
“As conflict in the region escalated earlier this year we notified our suppliers that their smelters and refiners must suspend sourcing tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold from the DRC and Rwanda… We took this action because we were concerned it was no longer possible for independent auditors or industry certification mechanisms to perform the due diligence required to meet our high standards”
— Apple said in its statement
Tin, tungsten and tantalum are critical in the manufacturing of smartphones and electronic devices.
International lawyers, Amsterdam & Partners, representing Congo argue that Apple uses minerals “pillaged” from Congo and laundered through international supply chains, as well as deceptive commercial practices to assure consumers that the tech giant’s supply chains are clean.
In April, 2023, Apple announced it was working towards using 100% recycled cobalt, tin and gold in its batteries and electronic devices by 2025, using the example of recycled rare earth elements usage increasing from 45% in 2021 to 73% in 2022.