UK: AMC to avoid buying from Congo over conflict fears

Date: 28 Sep 2009

British metals firm AMC has said that it will no longer buy tin ore from the Democratic Republic of Congo because it is worried that revenues are going directly towards supporting fighting and human rights abuses.

The company has responded to concerns that sales of minerals is used by warring factions in the region to fuel further conflict. It said it had not taken the decision to withdraw lightly, but it had been swayed by coverage of the problem by the international news media.

AMC had been criticised by campaign group Global Witness over purchases made by Thailand firm THAISARCO, a subsidiary of AMC, which it said had been directly linked with conflict in the area. AMC had rejected the claims.

Global Witness responded to the announcement by calling the decision to withdraw "regrettable". They called upon the company to actively question suppliers and check the source of their purchases, not to withdraw altogether.

Gavin Hayman, Campaigns Director at Global Witness said that the group believed it possible for companies to purchase materials from eastern DRC without supporting any of the warring parties, but this would take commitment.

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