Facing various complaints from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Apple suspends the use of minerals from these countries in its production.
The decision comes shortly after lawyers acting on behalf of the DRC filed complaints against the group's subsidiaries in France and Belgium for the alleged handling of the proceeds from war crimes, money laundering, fraud, and consumer deception.
After later disputing these allegations, Apple said it would no longer use tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold produced in these two countries.
Apple cited the escalating conflict in the region and the fact that money from the trade is used to fund armed groups. According to the company, the insecurity in these countries makes audits and certifications impossible.
It remains to be seen how the American giant will source the necessary minerals, as the DRC and Rwanda are major producers.