You’ve unlocked early access to CGSP Intelligence Access now

U.S. Lawmakers Weigh Sanctions, Criminal Charges Against Chinese Companies Over Child Cobalt Mining in DR Congo

A bipartisan meeting of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China on Capitol Hill where lawmakers heard testimony about child labor in the DRC cobalt supply chain. Image via CECC.

U.S. legislators are proposing much stricter measures to counter China’s dominance of the cobalt supply chain, including sanctions that would restrict the import of any cobalt mined by Chinese companies in the DR Congo.

The proposed law by New Jersey Republican Chris Smith is also intended to pressure companies, particularly those from China, that buy cobalt from so-called artisanal mines where the use of child labor is pervasive.

  • Get a daily email packed with the latest China-Africa news and analysis.
  • Read exclusive insights on the key trends shaping China-Africa relations.
  • Full access to the News Feed that provides daily updates on Chinese engagement in Africa and throughout the Global South.

China, Africa and the Global South... find out what’s happening.

Subscribe today for unlimited access.

OR

Already a subscriber? Log in Click Here to Learn More
by Eric Olander

Most Read

1 A Comprehensive Analysis of the Interconnected Dynamics between Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss, and Global Food Security in the 21st Century
2
How Chinese Construction Giant Sinohydro Benefits From Sanctions and Power Shortages in Zimbabwe
3
A Chinese-Backed Solar Project in Lesotho Highlights Beijing’s New “Small is Beautiful” Infrastructure Development Strategy in Africa
4
Chinese-Funded, Constructed Dams Prioritized in Zimbabwe’s Irrigation and Energy Plan
5
It’s Africa+1 Summit Season in Asia
6
User Guide: Interactive Map of Copper & Cobalt Production in the DR Congo