The United States has imposed new sanctions on armed groups and companies accused of fueling violence and exploiting conflict minerals in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The sanctions target PARECO-FF, a militia accused of forced labor and civilian killings, as well as Congolese mining firm CDMC and two Hong Kong-based exporters, East Rise Corporation and Star Dragon Corporation.
According to the U.S. Treasury Department, these entities were involved in illicit mining operations in Rubaya, a region rich in tantalum, cobalt, lithium and other critical minerals. PARECO-FF allegedly controlled Rubaya between 2022 and 2024, using violence to maintain control while smuggling minerals to international markets. The sanctions come amid renewed violence between the Congolese army and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, despite a U.S.-mediated ceasefire. Rubaya’s mines remain central to the ongoing conflict, producing up to 30% of the world’s coltan — a key component in electronics.
“The conflict minerals trade is exacting a deadly toll on Congolese civilians, fueling corruption, and preventing law-abiding businesses from investing in the DRC,” said Treasury Under Secretary John Hurley. The action falls under Executive Order 13413, which targets those undermining peace, security, or stability in the region, or supporting such activities through illicit trade in natural resources.
The U.S. emphasized that these measures support ongoing diplomatic efforts, including the DRC-Rwanda Regional Economic Integration Framework, aimed at stabilizing the Great Lakes region and securing mineral supply chains vital to global industries.