DRC Reaffirms Open-Door Investment Policy as Global Powers Deepen Interest in Mining Sector
DRC Opens Mining Sector to All Partners as China Drives Copper Growth and U.S. Expands Strategic Engagement
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains open to cooperation with all global powers in the mining sector, according to Minister of Mines Louis Watum Kabamba, who reaffirmed the country’s commitment to multilateral partnerships while acknowledging the significant role China has played in developing Congo’s mining industry.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, 27 November 2025, Minister Kabamba stressed that the DRC does not align exclusively with any geopolitical bloc. Instead, the country welcomes investment from all nations willing to operate within its legal framework.
China’s Central Role in Copper Production
Although the DRC engages with multiple partners, Minister Kabamba underscored China’s substantial contribution to the sector’s growth. He noted that China’s investments have propelled the DRC to second place globally in copper production, just behind Chile.
“We can criticize China and certain bad practices by a few operators—but let’s not forget that it is largely through China’s investment that we are the world’s second-largest copper producer today,” Kabamba stated.
The minister added that if the country resolves its energy capacity constraints, the DRC could surpass Chile and become the world leader. Current copper output already exceeds 3 million tonnes annually, with projections for continued growth.
He emphasized that while Chinese investments are welcome, all companies—foreign and local—must respect Congolese law, referencing the recent compliance issues involving the Chinese company CDM.
United States Strengthens Strategic Engagement
Turning to the United States, Minister Kabamba confirmed that Washington has increased its interest in the DRC’s mineral wealth, particularly strategic minerals essential for clean energy technologies.
“The Americans understood, they came, and we are talking. They are very interested, and we are open to everyone. We are in the era of multilateralism,” he said.
The DRC has been negotiating a strategic minerals partnership with the United States, aligned with the Washington Agreement, which also seeks to support peace efforts in eastern DRC.
Kabamba highlighted that less than 10% of the country’s mineral potential is currently under exploration or exploitation—leaving vast untapped opportunities for new investors.
Kongo Central: A Strategic Mining Province
The minister also highlighted Kongo Central as an emerging mining hub with enormous potential. He described it as the “geological mirror of Katanga,” holding deposits of copper, gold, manganese, and other key minerals.
Kongo Central offers significant advantages for investors:
Proximity to the Port of Matadi
Access to Inga’s hydropower
Existing rail and road networks
Close to Kinshasa’s human capital and services
Because of this infrastructure, Kabamba said the capital intensity required for mining investments is far lower than in remote areas.
China’s Wider Influence and Ongoing Renegotiations
China remains the DRC’s largest trading partner, receiving the bulk of its mineral exports and investing heavily in infrastructure, especially through the well-known “resources-for-infrastructure” model.
Major Chinese-backed ventures include Sino-Congolese Mines SA, established under a 2008 agreement between the DRC and a consortium of Chinese companies.
However, the government is currently revisiting certain contracts to ensure greater balance and transparency, while also working to diversify its range of international partners.
