Resolution Reached in DRC Truckers’ Strike Affecting Copper and Cobalt Exports
A recent truckers’ strike in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which disrupted copper and cobalt exports, has been successfully resolved, according to sources familiar with the situation.
The strike, initiated by drivers in Kolwezi at the end of October, primarily centered around demands for increased danger pay for transporting green-energy metals.
This standoff posed a threat to major mining companies such as Glencore Plc, CMOC Group Ltd., and Ivanhoe Mines Ltd., all of which operate significant mines in the region.
As the world’s leading cobalt producer and a major copper source, Congo relies heavily on road transportation to move materials from the southeastern mining hub of Kolwezi to destinations in Zambia, South Africa, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
The striking drivers, primarily from Zambia and Tanzania, were seeking an additional $700 per journey in risk payments. In an effort to mediate, Tanzania’s ambassador to Congo visited Kolwezi last week to engage with the provincial governor and facilitate a resolution.
While Glencore declined to comment, there has been no immediate response from Congo’s mines ministry and CMOC regarding the resolution.
Ivanhoe Mines, however, stated that its trucks resumed operations on November 9, with any resulting delays promptly addressed, ensuring that outbound shipments remained unaffected.
