Approach to Conflict Minerals

NTT Group's Approach to Conflict Minerals

Some of the minerals originating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and adjoining countries have been suspected of serving as a source of financing for violent armed groups fomenting conflict and committing serious human rights abuses.

In this context, Section 1502 of the “Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act” signed into law in the USA in July 2010 requires companies listed in the USA to disclose certain information regarding conflict minerals, including the extent to which they use conflict minerals originating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo or adjoining countries in their products. Under the Act, “Conflict Minerals” includes tantalum, tin, gold, tungsten and other minerals designated by the Secretary of State.

To continue to be socially responsible with respect to this issue, we are working with our suppliers to conduct procurement in a way that improves supply chain transparency and, in consideration of the Act, we are taking steps to avoid the use of Conflict Minerals, the proceeds from which could finance armed groups. At the same time, in view of the fact that areas affected by conflict also produce minerals that do not finance armed groups, we will work to implement our approach to procurement without hindering the use of these minerals.

We ask for the understanding of our suppliers and their cooperation with our surveys. We also ask that our suppliers endeavor to promote socially responsible procurement together with us.