Countering China’s Exploitation of Strategic Metals and Minerals and Child and Forced Labor in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Act

Bill 118 hr 4443, also known as the Countering China’s Exploitation of Strategic Metals and Minerals and Child and Forced Labor in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Act, aims to address two key issues: the exploitation of strategic metals and minerals by China and the use of child and forced labor in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The bill seeks to counter China's exploitation of strategic metals and minerals by imposing sanctions on individuals and entities involved in the illicit extraction and trade of these resources. This includes targeting Chinese companies that are complicit in the exploitation of minerals such as cobalt, which is used in the production of electronics and electric vehicles.

Additionally, the bill addresses the issue of child and forced labor in the DRC by requiring companies to conduct due diligence to ensure that their supply chains are free from these practices. Companies found to be using child or forced labor in their supply chains could face penalties and restrictions on their ability to do business in the United States. Overall, the Countering China’s Exploitation of Strategic Metals and Minerals and Child and Forced Labor in the Democratic Republic of the Congo Act aims to promote ethical sourcing practices and hold accountable those who profit from the exploitation of vulnerable populations and valuable natural resources.