DRC Economy Maintains Strong Growth as Real GDP Expands 5.8% in 2025
DRC Real GDP Grows 5.8% in 2025 as Services and Mining Support Economic Expansion
The Democratic Republic of Congo’s economy grew by 5.8% in real terms in 2025, according to preliminary estimates from the Commission for Statistical Studies and National Accounts (CESCN).
Growth eased from 6.1% in 2024, but remained above the estimated 4.5% average for sub-Saharan Africa.
The slowdown was partly linked to weaker mining growth and the temporary suspension of cobalt exports.
However, stronger copper production and continued expansion in the services sector helped sustain economic activity.
The tertiary sector was the largest contributor to GDP growth, expanding by 5.7% and contributing 2.7 percentage points to overall growth.
Telecommunications was among the strongest performers, growing by 11%, while accommodation, food and beverage services expanded by 8.5%. Commerce and transport also recorded solid growth.
The performance highlights the growing contribution of non-mining activities to the DRC economy.
Mining remains crucial
The primary sector, dominated by mining, grew by 6.8%, contributing 2.3 percentage points to overall GDP growth.
Non-ferrous mineral production increased by 8.7%, although this was slower than the 12.3% growth recorded in 2024.
The suspension of cobalt exports weighed on the sector, but higher copper production helped offset some of the impact.
Copper continues to play a central role in the DRC economy, with rising production supporting export earnings and overall economic activity.
Construction supports growth
The secondary sector contributed 0.6 percentage points to GDP growth. Construction remained an important driver despite slowing to 9.2% growth, compared with 12.4% in 2024.
Infrastructure projects and continued investment in roads and other public works supported activity in the sector.
The DRC’s 2025 performance was largely supported by mining and services, which together accounted for most of the country’s economic expansion.
The Central Bank of Congo has projected real GDP growth of around 6.2% in 2026, supported by continued activity in the extractive sector and improving performance in non-mining industries.
Maintaining that growth will depend on continued investment in mining while expanding sectors such as telecommunications, construction, agriculture, manufacturing and trade to reduce the economy’s dependence on commodities.
