Core Point - The Democratic Republic of Congo has extended the ban on trading minerals from conflict-affected artisanal mining sites in North and South Kivu provinces for an additional six months, increasing compliance pressure on the global supply chain for tin, tantalum, and tungsten, which are critical raw materials for the electronics, automotive, and aerospace industries [1] Group 1 - The ban was originally implemented in February and is based on evidence that illegal supplies from these mines are funding armed groups in the eastern region [1] - The order, signed by Mining Minister Louis Watum Kabamba on November 3, applies to 38 mining sites in Masisi (North Kivu) and Kalehe (South Kivu) that produce coltan, tin, and tungsten ores [1] - The extension of the ban highlights ongoing challenges in ensuring ethical sourcing of minerals in conflict zones [1]