DRC Bans Mining Companies from Direct Sale of Reagents to Boost Local Subcontractors
DRC Prohibits Mining Companies from Directly Selling Mining Reagents to Promote Local Subcontracting
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Private Sector Subcontracting Regulatory Authority (ARSP) has formally prohibited all mining companies operating in the country from directly supplying, distributing or marketing mining reagents, including sulfuric acid, quicklime, coal and similar products.
Under the new regulation, only subcontracting companies that are duly approved and registered with the ARSP are authorised to supply and commercialise these materials. The decision was adopted on January 7, 2026, and is binding on all mining operators without exception.
The measure aligns with the vision of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi to strengthen local content, promote small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), create jobs and support the emergence of a strong Congolese middle class.
According to the ARSP, investigations revealed that several mining rights holders were directly supplying reagents to other mining companies and mineral processing plants, in violation of existing laws governing subcontracting in the private sector.
The authority clarified that the supply and commercialisation of such reagents constitute subcontracting activities, which are legally reserved for eligible Congolese-owned companies.
The decision reiterates that mining companies’ legal mandates are limited to core mining activities, including exploration, extraction, processing and related infrastructure works.
As such, mining title holders are not eligible to register as subcontractors and may not engage in reagent supply for third parties.
Under the new rules, all mining companies seeking to procure reagents must do so through locally registered subcontractors certified by the ARSP. Any contractual clauses or arrangements that contradict this decision are deemed null and void.
The ARSP warned that violations of the decision will attract sanctions as provided for under Congolese law. The regulation takes immediate effect from the date of its signature.
Authorities say the move is intended to secure meaningful participation of Congolese enterprises in the mining value chain, enhance economic sovereignty and ensure that the benefits of the country’s vast mineral resources are more broadly shared across the national economy.
