The Conflict-Free Sourcing Initiative (CFSI, ***), which represents over 200 companies from more than seven industries, is urging your company to participate in the Conflict-Free Smelter Program (CFSP). CFSI members have contacted you previously, but with no response we are concerned that you do not fully understand the urgent need to act.
Your company has been identified as a smelter or refiner of tantalum, tin, tungsten or gold (3TG) in the supply chain of many CFSI member companies. By completing an independent audit and becoming compliant with CFSP standards, you will satisfy these companies’ requirements for responsible sourcing of 3TG, which can have a direct impact on your future business opportunities.
Many CFSI members, and thousands of other companies, are required by law to publicly report on the origin of the 3TG in their products, and whether it is from militia-controlled mines linked to conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In addition to these legal requirements, consumers are increasingly demanding that products do not fuel conflict in the DRC (i.e., be “DRC conflict-free”). The best way for companies to meet these legal and stakeholder requirements is to source from CFSP-compliant smelters and refiners.
Successful participation in the CFSP will allow you to:
• Prove to your customers that you source DRC conflict-free 3TG
• Be included on an internationally recognized list of Conflict-Free Smelters and Refiners
• In addition, if you act soon, your audit costs could be covered by CFSI’s Initial Audit Fund
If you choose not to participate, you risk future business, as many companies will require their suppliers to source only from CFSP-compliant smelters.
More than 200 smelters and refiners have been validated so far and more are joining the program every month. You can see the current list of CFSP-compliant smelters and refiners at ***/conflict-free-smelter-refiner-lists.
We urge you to commence participation in the CFSP immediately by contacting us at ***. We will gladly answer any questions you may have and help you get started on the path to become a CFSP-compliant smelter or refiner.
We are sending this email on behalf of the companies listed on the attached letter.
We look forward to working with you,
Mitsu Shippee
Senior Manager, Head of CSR Section, Corporate Communications and CSR Dept.
Sony Corporation – Member of The Conflict Free Sourcing Initiative