The term "Conflict Minerals" refers to minerals of 4 metals fundamental to any economy (tin, tungsten, tantalum, and gold) coming from conflict zones, resulting in human rights violations, exploitation of labor, and possible financing of armed groups.
Conflict Minerals: what they are and regulations
Conflict mineral consultancy
We offer specialized consulting on "Conflict Minerals," assisting companies in navigating the complex regulations imposed by both the United States and the European Union. With a deep understanding of the 2010 Dodd-Frank Act and Regulation (EU) 2017/821, our team of experts provides strategic support to ensure that the sourcing of critical metals (tin, tungsten, tantalum, and gold) is conducted in full compliance with human rights and legal requirements.
We work closely with our clients to trace and verify the entire supply chain, from the smelter to the finished product, offering customized solutions that not only ensure legal compliance but also promote a significant competitive advantage in the market. Our consulting is aimed at transforming compliance with these regulations into an opportunity to strengthen commitment to sustainability and corporate ethics.
US and EU regulations compared
In 2010, the United States enacted the Dodd-Franck Act which, among other things, requires all US listed companies to trace the origin of the 4 metals in question contained in their products to demonstrate that the supply of these materials has occurred in full compliance with the law and human rights.
This provision can have serious consequences also for EU suppliers, to which US customers require to verify the origin of the metals contained in their products by tracing along the entire supply chain up to, for example, the smelters/refiners that obtained those metals.
A law similar in objectives, but different in content, has also been adopted by the EU with Regulation (EU) 2017/821.
Managing compliance with these regulations can be very complex for a company, as it requires close dialogue with all its suppliers and can concern the most diverse products, even those in common use (e.g., electronic products, mechanical components, etc.). However, ensuring compliance with these regulations through sound company management can translate into a powerful commercial advantage and in a responsible business conduct.