ITSCI Calls on RMI to Clarify Recognition Process

The International Tin Supply Chain Initiative (ITSCI) has stated that the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) must clarify its recognition process, following RMI's recent announcement to pause the process for at least one year. ITSCI assists companies with due diligence and raw material traceability for 3T conflict minerals —tungsten, tin, and tantalum— in central Africa, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. RMI works with downstream smelters to ensure materials are sourced from conflict-free areas via its Responsible Minerals Assurance Programme.

The two organizations have been in dispute over RMI's recognition of ITSCI as an approved upstream due diligence system for RMAP assessments since 2022. On July 5, RMI paused the recognition process, citing ITSCI's failure to meet terms and address questions regarding its response to escalating conflict in the DRC.

ITSCI responded, stating, "RMI's focus on ITSCI not meeting ‘terms' ignores the primary need for RMI's own recognition process to be clarified and updated, a need that RMI now acknowledges." ITSCI further noted that RMI's latest statement introduced new recognition factors, undermining previous efforts to understand RMI's requirements.

ITSCI reiterated its alignment with OECD requirements for upstream due diligence programs, emphasizing that the OECD does not mandate field visits to every location. RMI had previously insisted on such visits as part of its recognition process.

Regarding the DRC conflict, ITSCI acknowledged increased risks but emphasized its active monitoring, suspension of operations when necessary, and collaboration with independent local organizations to verify field information. ITSCI maintained that, irrespective of RMI recognition, its gathered information remains valuable for downstream companies' due diligence efforts.