DRC’s Copper Exports Hit Record 3.1 Million Tonnes in 2024 1Mining in DRC Copper Economy 

DRC’s Copper Exports Hit Record 3.1 Million Tonnes in 2024

For the first time in its mining history, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) exported a record 3.1 million tonnes of copper in 2024, according to a March 6 report from the Congolese Ministry of Mines. This represents a 13% increase from 2023, driven by strong performances from the country’s largest copper mines.

Key Contributors to Growth

  • CMOC Group (operator of the Tenke Fungurume and Kisanfu mines) led production with 650,161 tonnes.
  • Ivanhoe Mines (operator of the Kamoa-Kakula copper mine) recorded 437,061 tonnes, marking a 12% increase from 2023.

Copper exports from the DRC could grow further in 2025, supported by a 3.7% increase in global demand, as forecasted by Commodity Insights. Additionally, the CRU Group estimates that the DRC’s copper output will grow by 8% this year compared to 2024.

These developments reinforce the DRC’s position as the world’s second-largest copper producer, surpassing Peru in 2023. Last year, Peru’s copper production fell to 2.73 million tonnes, down 0.7% year-on-year.

Despite the growth, concerns remain:

  • Undervaluation of copper sales – Congolese authorities worry that Kamoa-Kakula’s production is being sold below market prices, potentially depriving the state of significant mining revenues.
  • China’s economic slowdown – The DRC’s top copper buyer saw a 7.2% drop in Congolese copper imports during January and February 2025, which could impact future export volumes.

As the DRC solidifies its role as a global copper powerhouse, it must navigate market uncertainties while ensuring fair revenue generation from its booming mining sector.

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