Key points:

Implementation:

The new regulation is expected to be signed into EU law by the end of May 2017.

The new regulation will take effect on 1 January 2021

Who will be effected?

The regulation only applies directly to EU-based importers of tin, tantalum, tungsten and gold, whether these are in the form of mineral ores, concentrates or processed metals, for example

Upstream companies

(ie mines / traders / smelters & refiners)

Have to comply with mandatory rules on due diligence when they import

Downstream companies

(ie traders / component producers / manufacturers & assemblers / end-users)

  • those importing metal-stage products also have to meet mandatory due diligence rules
  • those operating beyond the metal stage do not have obligations under the regulation;  but they are expected to use reporting and other tools to make their due diligence more transparent

 

Official information / documents

Source:                    European Commission “Europa” website

Press release:

http://europa.eu/rapid/press-release_IP-16-3931_en.htm

Draft regulation:

http://www.europarl.europa.eu/sides/getDoc.do?type=AMD&format=PDF&reference=A8-0141/2015&secondRef=156-156&language=EN

Background:

http://ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/in-focus/conflict-minerals-regulation/

The regulation explained:

http://ec.europa.eu/trade/policy/in-focus/conflict-minerals-regulation/regulation-explained/