Tungsten is widely used in products across the electronics, automotive and aerospace industries due to its strength and high melting point. The majority of tungsten is produced in China, with a small percentage of the metal originating in Central Africa. Tungsten is covered by regulations related to “conflict minerals” in the United States and the European Union.
What We Do
The RMI provides tools and resources to help companies make sourcing decisions that improve regulatory compliance and support responsible sourcing globally, in accordance with internationally recognized frameworks such as the OECD Due Diligence Guidance and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
The RMI’s Responsible Minerals Assurance Process (RMAP) provides independent third-party assessments through an OECD-aligned industry mechanism for tungsten smelters.
The RMI engages the tungsten industry, smelters and other stakeholders along tungsten value chains to promote complementarity of programs and support responsible sourcing initiatives in conflict-affected and high-risk areas.
What You Can Do
Learn more about the actions you can take to promote responsible tungsten sourcing:
- Map your tungsten supply chain using our reporting template.
- Support the industry program for third-party assessments of tungsten smelters.
- Consult the list of tungsten smelters that are active or conformant with the RMAP requirements.
- Identify and address risks using the Risk Readiness Assessment and the Country Risk Assessment Tool or consult the resources available to help you identify high-risk areas in mineral supply chains.
- Learn more about the RMI’s programs to support smelters using the Initial Audit Fund and the Upstream Due Diligence Fund.
Engage peers, industry organizations and stakeholders to develop, share and utilize tools and resources for responsible minerals sourcing.
For more information, please contact us.
