U.S. lawmakers investigate China's role in Africa's mining industry, highlighting human rights abuses and proposing new legislation.

The U.S. House of Representatives held a hearing on China's impact on Africa's mining industry, focusing on labor exploitation and human rights abuses. Experts testified that China's resource-driven policies contribute to child labor and geopolitical tensions. Rep. Chris Smith introduced H.R.2310, the COBALT Supply Chain Act, to block imports of cobalt refined in China unless proven not to use forced labor. Lawmakers urged steps to counter China's dominance in Africa's mineral supply chains.