Congo's Copper Surge Overtakes Cobalt Output

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has become a significant player in the global copper market, surpassing cobalt production for the first time. According to recent results from major mining operators active in the DRC, Glencore produced 397,000 tonnes of copper in the first half of 2026, a 15% increase from the same period last year.

The majority of this copper came from African assets, with 138,400 tonnes produced, representing a 66% increase. In contrast, Glencore's cobalt output fell by 46%, to 10,200 tonnes.

This shift in focus towards copper is largely driven by rising prices and restricted exports of cobalt, which has resulted in major mining groups pivoting towards the red metal. Global demand for copper far outstrips that for cobalt, making it a more lucrative market.