On 3 September 2026, the China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Importers & Exporters (CCCMC) released the revised draft of the Sustainable Mining Code (the “Code”) following its first round of public consultation, together with the supporting assessment tool. CCCMC also plans to launch a joint piloting programme.
The Code is a Voluntary Sustainability Standard (VSS) developed on the basis of existing industry guidance. It draws on leading international sustainability frameworks, environmental and social risk management requirements in the mining sector, takes into account relevant Chinese standards, policies and regulatory requirements, and incorporates practical experience in areas including mineral supply chain due diligence, biodiversity management and comprehensive risk control, etc.
Key Revisions
During the first round of public consultation, CCCMC received approximately 700 comments from more than 50 stakeholders, involving corporate, international organizations, industry associations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and individual experts.
Based on a thorough review of stakeholder comments, the revised draft further clarifies the scope of application and key terminology, strengthens the risk-based approach, enhances alignment with international practices, and improves implementation feasibility. Particular attention has been given to higher-risk areas including biodiversity, tailings, pollution and waste, labour, human rights and the indigenous, with greater emphasis on the effective implementation and continuous improvement of management systems.
Supporting Assessment Tool
The supporting assessment tool translates the requirements of the Code into practical, assessable and verifiable requirements. It establishes a continuous improvement cycle covering:
The tool provides a structured approach for companies to assess their practices against the Code, identify key gaps and risks, plan improvements, and track implementation over time.
Next Steps
With the revised Code and assessment tool in place, CCCMC is moving into the implementation phase. CCCMC will organize a dedicated briefing to present
the key revisions, explain how the tool works, and provide further information on the joint pilot programme. In parallel, CCCMC will launch a second round of public consultation and further refine the Code, the assessment tool, and related assessment procedures in light of the pilot assessment process and outcomes..
Companies and organizations that would like to provide feedback on the Code or assessment tool, or participate in the joint pilot assessments, are welcome to contact us at: rbc@cccmc.org.cn
Attachments:
- Sustainable Mining Code — Revised Draft following the First Round of Public Consultation
- Sustainable Mining Code — Supporting Assessment Tool
