A year-long Global Witness investigation finds that conflict coltan smuggled from war-torn DRC is reaching global markets despite existing due diligence systems. The Rubaya mines in North Kivu, producing around 15% of the world's tantalum, have been controlled by the Rwanda-backed M23 armed group since April 2024, generating an estimated US$800,000 per month for the group, according to a UN estimate. Once in Rwanda, the coltan is laundered through the ITSCI traceability scheme, and RMI audits passed by all eight smelters processing Rwandan coltan failed to detect these conflict links.

Ericsson said it takes the allegations seriously and is working with suppliers and the RMI to strengthen due diligence on tantalum. The company stated it does not source raw minerals directly, but that coltan enters its supply chain through multiple supplier tiers. It said it is reviewing whether the named smelters appear in its supply chain and will take appropriate action, including potential removal of suppliers, if credible evidence links them to abuses linked to Rubaya.