Chairman Chris Smith (R-NJ) addressed the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, focusing on China’s involvement in Africa’s mining sector. The hearing, titled “Metals, Minerals, and Mining: How the CCP Fuels Conflict and Exploitation in Africa,” examined how the People’s Republic of China (PRC) contributes to conflict and exploitation across the continent.
Smith highlighted that while mineral resources have potential for economic development, their mismanagement often leads to violence and instability. In particular, he pointed out that “the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has vast mineral wealth, especially in cobalt and gold,” which has driven conflict. He noted that armed groups profit from resource extraction and smuggling, financing operations that perpetuate cycles of violence.
In his remarks, Smith emphasized the human rights concerns associated with these practices. He cited reports indicating that more than 70% of the world’s cobalt is extracted in DRC under harsh conditions. He referenced Mr. Lezhnev’s testimony about children involved in mining and mentioned a 2024 report stating that “observers noted children in mining areas are vulnerable to sexual violence.”
Smith also addressed illegal mining activities known as “galamsey” in Ghana, which have caused environmental damage and social unrest due to foreign involvement. Furthermore, he discussed how illicit gold mining exacerbates conflicts in Ethiopia and Sudan by funding armed factions.
To combat these issues, Smith reintroduced the COBALT Supply Chain Act aimed at preventing goods containing cobalt refined in China from entering U.S. markets. This legislation addresses concerns about child labor in DRC’s cobalt extraction processes.
He reiterated past efforts to address Chinese dominance over critical minerals through hearings held by congressional committees he co-chairs or chairs. He stated: “The greatest beneficiaries of this system—China’s state-owned mining companies—remain silent.”
Smith acknowledged former President Trump’s Executive Order for increasing American mineral production as a crucial step towards strengthening domestic supply chains while reducing reliance on foreign adversaries like China.
Finally, Smith mentioned an openness from the U.S Department of State towards forming direct critical mineral partnerships with DRC as part of securing essential resources for technological advancement and national security.
The hearing included a panel of experts providing insights into these complex issues surrounding China’s role within Africa’s mineral resource sector.
