Toshiba, Apple, HP, and Nokia implemented policies to require their suppliers to use only audited, conflict-free smelters, once enough are available.

FORBES: Progress Being Made In Eliminating Conflict From Minerals Supply Chains

"Silvercrest, for whatever reason, chose to use suppliers we had not approved and audited, " he said.

BBC: UK

The reason for the difference is that Western markets rely on contracts being enforced by courts and on investors, suppliers and customers all acting on the basis of audited accounts.

ECONOMIST: Chinese financial scandals: When it matters | The