Congo's Mining Industry Shifts Focus to Copper Amid Cobalt Restrictions

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is at a crossroads in its mining industry. With copper prices rising and cobalt exports restricted, major mining groups like Glencore and CMOC are shifting their focus towards copper. The demand for copper far outstrips that for cobalt, making it the more lucrative option.

According to recent results from major mining operators active in DRC, Glencore produced 397,000 tonnes of copper in the first half of 2026, a 15% increase. Of this total, 138,400 tonnes came from its African assets, a 66% jump. In contrast, Glencore's cobalt output fell 46%, to 10,200 tonnes.

The trend is clear: copper is paying off while cobalt is piling up. As the DRC's mining industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this shift in focus affects the country's economy and its position as a major player in the global mining sector.