Mining companies demand human rights standards in China

Major extractive firms Anglo American and Rio Tinto have said that they will only sign joint venture agreements with Chinese companies if they can show a willingness to comply with Western standards on human rights, as well as environmental protection.

The recently announced joint ventures focus on operations in Africa, where Chinese companies have been making increasing levels of investment as it has sought resources and have successfully developed links with African governments who have appreciated their hands-off approach on issues others find controversial.

Rio and Anglo have interests in bringing Chinese companies up to the same health and safety and human rights standards that they operate to, a move which should help to reduce the cost differential between them.