MMG Kinsevere Urges More Investment as Global Copper Supply Tightens at DRC Mining Week
DRC Mining Week 2026: MMG Kinsevere Warns of Future Copper Supply Deficit and Calls for Increased Investment
MMG Kinsevere has called for increased investment in the global copper industry, warning that rising demand driven by the energy transition and rapid urbanization could place significant pressure on supply over the next decade.
Speaking during DRC Mining Week in Lubumbashi, Xie Hao, Deputy General Manager for Technology and Operations Assurance at MMG Kinsevere, said the Democratic Republic of Congo is well positioned to play a critical role in meeting future global copper demand.
His remarks were delivered during a panel discussion on “The Next Generation of Copper Supply” held at the Pullman Grand Karavia Hotel.
Global copper supply expected to tighten after 2030
According to MMG Kinsevere, global copper markets are likely to face increasing supply constraints beyond 2030 as demand continues to outpace new production capacity.
“Even with existing projects, supply is struggling to keep pace. New investments are not optional; they are essential,” Xie Hao said.
The company noted that the copper industry is undergoing a major shift toward the exploitation and processing of sulfide ore deposits, which are generally deeper, more technically complex and more capital-intensive than oxide resources.
This transition requires advanced metallurgical technologies, greater energy consumption and substantial investments in mining and processing infrastructure.
Several major operators across the Central African Copperbelt are already adapting their long-term strategies to this reality, including Kamoa-Kakula, Tenke Fungurume, Kinsanfu, Mutanda and Sicomines. MMG completed the conversion of its Kinsevere operation to sulfide ore processing in 2024.
Mining projects becoming increasingly complex
Xie Hao emphasized that the development timeline for large-scale copper projects has increased significantly in recent years due to a more demanding operating environment.
Beyond geological considerations, mining companies must now navigate increasingly complex regulatory frameworks, environmental requirements and community expectations.
“Global copper supply beyond 2035 will depend on the decisions made today. Success requires more than geology; it relies on technical, regulatory and financial alignment,” he said.
Kinsevere Expansion Project demonstrates long-term commitment
MMG highlighted the $600 million Kinsevere Expansion Project (KEP) as a clear example of its long-term commitment to the Democratic Republic of Congo and the future of copper production in the country.
Approved in 2022, the project progressed through major construction phases in 2023 and achieved mechanical completion in September 2024 before entering production in 2025.
The expansion is expected to increase annual copper production capacity to approximately 80,000 tonnes and extend the mine’s operational life by more than 13 years.
Full production capacity is expected to be reached this year.
“The Kinsevere Expansion Project demonstrates how long-term investments can support the next generation of copper supply,” Xie Hao said.
Collaboration key to future supply growth
MMG Kinsevere stressed that addressing future copper supply challenges will require stronger collaboration between governments, mining companies and industry stakeholders.
The company also emphasized the importance of technological innovation, workforce development, local content initiatives and maximizing the lifespan of existing mining operations.
“A collaborative framework is essential to ensure sustainable growth in copper supply,” Xie Hao concluded.
Investing in communities and local talent
Beyond its industrial investments, MMG Kinsevere says it remains committed to community development and workforce training.
Through initiatives such as its Graduate Programme, the company is investing in skills development and supporting the next generation of Congolese mining professionals while contributing to the socio-economic development of communities surrounding its operations.
