Stop China’s Exploitation of Congolese Children and Adult Forced Labor through Cobalt Mining Act

This bill requires the U.S. government to investigate how to enforce existing law (Section 307 of the Tariff Act) to block cobalt imports linked to forced labor in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). It mandates a strategy within 180 days to trace cobalt supply chains, prevent forced-labor cobalt from entering U.S. markets (including via third countries), and coordinate with customs and industry. The bill directly affects U.S. importers of cobalt products, Chinese-owned mining entities operating in the DRC, and DRC artisanal mines using forced labor (where an estimated 40,000 children work). It does not ban imports but directs agencies to develop enforcement tools and report semiannually to Congress, with the process ending after 8 years or if forced labor ends.