Field visits in Latinamerica

Field Visits & On-Site Due Diligence - Precious Metals – Compliance & Traceability

In the precious metals sector, documentary due diligence alone is no longer sufficient. Effective risk management requires direct verification at the source.

At Rothschild Compliance we provide independent field visits across Latin America to mining operations, trading companies, and processing facilities, with the objective of validating the origin, traceability, and integrity of the supply chain.

These visits are conducted under internationally recognized frameworks, including the London Bullion Market Association Responsible Sourcing Guidance and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Mineral Supply Chains.

The approach is structured, evidence-based, and aligned with the expectations of refiners, financial institutions, and compliance committees.

During each field visit, the following aspects are assessed:

• Verification of declared sources of origin, including site visits to mines and production areas, with photographic and documentary evidence.

• Review of operational capacity versus declared volumes, identifying inconsistencies between production, logistics, and commercial activity.

• Evaluation of legal, regulatory, and licensing status at the local level, including mining rights, environmental permits, and export authorizations.

• Assessment of AML/CFT controls, beneficial ownership transparency, and exposure to high-risk factors such as illicit mining, smuggling, or third-party intermediation.

• Analysis of ESG practices, including environmental impact, community relations, and labor conditions, particularly in high-risk or CAHRA-affected regions.

The outcome is a comprehensive field report designed for decision-making at board and compliance committee level. Reports include risk classification, red flag identification, and clear recommendations regarding onboarding, continuation, or termination of the commercial relationship.

This service is particularly relevant for:

Refiners and traders requiring enhanced due diligence prior to onboarding new suppliers.

Financial institutions exposed to precious metals transactions.

Companies seeking to align their sourcing practices with international standards and mitigate regulatory and reputational risk.

Field verification is not an optional layer—it is a necessary control in a sector where origin risk defines the transaction.

Contact us at: cs@rothschild.cl