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In a significant development, Belgian authorities have initiated a criminal investigation into tech giant Apple over allegations of sourcing ‘blood minerals’ from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The investigation stems from accusations that the company knowingly participated in what lawyers representing the DRC describe as a “massive laundering and greenwashing operation”.
The DRC filed criminal complaints in December against Apple subsidiaries in both Belgium and France, claiming the company utilised minerals supplied by armed groups responsible for atrocities in eastern Congo. Belgian prosecutors have appointed an investigative judge with powers to authorise arrests, wiretaps, and raids, whilst French authorities are still deliberating their response.
Apple has firmly rejected these allegations, stating it “strongly disputes” the DRC’s claims and maintains its commitment to responsible mineral sourcing. The tech company’s products, including iPhones, rely heavily on coltan, a critical mineral of which Congo holds more than 50% of global deposits.
The criminal complaint centres on Apple’s procurement of tantalum, tin, tungsten, and gold—collectively known as 3TG minerals. These resources are allegedly sourced from mines that fuel regional conflicts, enable child labour, and cause environmental destruction. The ongoing violence has displaced millions, with widespread civilian casualties and systematic human rights violations.
A recent UN report has exposed the scale of mineral smuggling in the region, revealing that Rwandan-backed rebels illegally exported at least 150 metric tonnes of coltan to Rwanda in the previous year. This activity has led to what UN officials termed “the largest contamination” of the region’s mineral supply chain ever recorded.
In response to mounting pressure, Apple announced in June 2024 its decision to suspend sourcing 3TG metals from both the DRC and Rwanda, citing inability to maintain adequate due diligence standards. The company has also pledged to transition to 100% recycled cobalt for its batteries, signalling a shift towards more sustainable sourcing practices.
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