This statement was supplied by Philips for the session "Obstacles and incentives to source from conflict-affected and high-risk areas: the tungsten case" during the 7th Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Responsible Mineral Supply Chains held on 26-28 May 2014 in Paris. Find out more at: http://mneguidelines.oecd.org/icglr-oecd-un-forum-paris-may-2014.htm

1. 1
Philips joined the Conflict Free Tin Initiative (CFTI) in 2012 to create a
demand for conflict-free tin from the DRC region. Building on existing
due diligence mechanisms the CFTI has proven that responsible sourcing
from the region is possible and contributes to much needed local
economic development. 15 months after the start, the first end-
products containing this conflict-free tin from Congo are now on the
market.
This is an important proof point, and should lower the barrier for
initiating additional responsible sourcing initiatives that cover other
minerals – including Tungsten - and additional mines as well.
We are willing to support such initiatives that look for concrete
solutions and create a market for conflict-free minerals from the
region. Philips encourages companies along all tiers of the supply
chain, and from different industries, to work together in creating a
conflict-free supply chain.