1. The Responsible Cobalt Initiative (RCI) was jointly launched by CCCMC and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in April 2016. As a non-entity working mechanism under CCCMC’s management, it aims to promote sustainable development in cobalt and critical mineral supply chains. In 2022, it was renamed the Responsible Critical Minerals Initiative (RCI). All related intellectual property rights, management authority, and other legal entitlements have always belonged exclusively to CCCMC.
2. In June 2024, certain individuals, without adhering to CCCMC’s governance procedures or obtaining authorization, convened an unauthorized so-called "decision-making meeting" and attempted to separate RCI from CCCMC’s working mechanism. These actions constitute unauthorized use of RCI and infringe upon CCCMC’s legal rights. According to China’s relevant laws and regulations, such conduct violates legal provisions and constitutes serious illegality. CCCMC reserves the right to pursue legal action against those responsible.
3. Effective immediately, any organization or individual conducting activities (including meetings, agreements, membership recruitment, etc.) under the name of "RCI" without CCCMC’s written authorization will infringe upon CCCMC’s legal rights. CCCMC will take all necessary legal measures to uphold its rights. Member enterprises and partners are urged to refrain from participating in such activities. Any suspicious invitations should be verified with CCCMC promptly to avoid deception or potential legal liabilities.
4. CCCMC will formally establish a branch entity, the Sustainable Mining Committee (SMC), to lawfully assume the functions of RCI. The SMC will complete its establishment by May 2025 and notify international partners, including the OECD.
5. CCCMC calls on global mineral supply chain enterprises and international institutions to establish official cooperation channels with CCCMC to jointly oppose the illegal misuse of the RCI name.
6. CCCMC pledges to continuously improve industry governance through the SMC, ensuring the sustainable development and international discourse power of Chinese enterprises in the critical minerals sector.
China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Importers & Exporters (CCCMC)
March 2, 2025
