Most of our products contain metals which originate from various sources around the world. Some products contain tantalum, tin, tungsten and gold, most often in electronic devices needed in our products. These metals, often named 3TG, have become known as 'conflict minerals' because they may be, in part, sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) where a long civil war is ongoing. Illegal armed groups control some of these mines and transit routes to fund their violent operations.

Getinge's position is that the extraction of raw materials never should, directly or indirectly, support armed groups but instead contribute to economic growth and development.

Getinge is committed to having a conflict-free supply chain and when conflict minerals are used in our products we will conduct due diligence activities on our supply chain to reasonably ensure that if the minerals originate from within the conflict area they are from conflict-free sources.

Transparency on the origin of conflict minerals is most important in order to achieve a positive development. Getinge will have an open attitude on these issues as we require that our supplier will assist us in our effort to determine adequate information on mineral sourcing.

It is essential to establish conflict-free sources of 3TG within the DRC and other conflict areas in order to mitigate the unintended consequences of a widespread withdrawal from trade in these regions. Joint efforts are needed to establish mechanisms to ensure a responsible procurement of conflict minerals from affected areas.