The Mica CRAFT Code - Mica Code of Risk-Mitigation for ASM Engaging in Formal Trade - developed by the Responsible Mica Initiative in partnership with the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) and released in January 2025, is a voluntary standard designed specifically for artisanal and small-scale mica mining (ASM) operations.
The Mica CRAFT Code - Mica Code of Risk-Mitigation for ASM Engaging in Formal Trade - developed by the Responsible Mica Initiative in partnership with the Alliance for Responsible Mining (ARM) and released in January 2025, is a voluntary standard designed specifically for artisanal and small-scale mica mining (ASM) operations.
The Mica CRAFT Code draws on the CRAFT 2.1 standard developed by ARMand is aligned with OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals in Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas.
The Mica CRAFT Code addresses human and worker rights, societal welfare, governance, use of natural resources, and land reclamation in three-volumes:
- Volume 1: Introduction & general characteristics.
- Volume 2: Specific requirements for ASM mica operations.
- Volume 3: Guiding principles for Mica CRAFT schemes.
The Code features:
- Progressive conformance levels to help mica ASM operators gradually meet full standard requirements.
- Inclusion of mica specific criteria to account for the distinct realities of mica mining. These features include the use of seasonal work, the presence of informal or unlicensed operations, and community dependence on mica mining for livelihoods.
- Open access for global stakeholders, promoting transparency and inclusive adoption in mica supply chains.
The Mica CRAFT Code supports RMI's mission of making mica supply chains responsible, traceable and sustainable — especially by enabling vulnerable ASM producers to align with responsible mining benchmarks and corporate due diligence expectations.
