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The mineral-rich territories of eastern Congo remain contested by militia groups, including M23 rebels who have expanded their control over strategic areas in recent months.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has extended the ban on trading minerals from 38 artisanal mining sites in the conflict-affected provinces of North and South Kivu.
Officials state that the measure is being maintained due to evidence that revenue from the illegal supply of mines is being used to fund armed groups in the region. The Ministry of Mines says the six-month extension also increases compliance pressure on global supply chains for tin, tantalum, and tungsten.
All these metals are key materials used in the electronics, automotive, and aerospace industries. This decision extends restrictions first imposed in February and increases pressure on international buyers to ensure their supply chains are free from conflict financing.
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The mineral-rich territories of eastern Congo remain contested by militia groups, including M23 rebels who have expanded their control over strategic areas in recent months.