For the first time in its mining history, copper exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) reached an impressive 3.1 million tonnes in 2024, according to a report released by the Congolese Ministry of Mines on March 6. 

This marks a 13% increase from the previous year, largely driven by strong performances from the country's largest copper mines. The Chinese group CMOC, which operates the Tenke Fungurume and Kisanfu mining sites, reported a total production of 650,161 tonnes. Ivanhoe Mines, which runs the Kamoa-Kakula copper mine, achieved an annual output of 437,061 tonnes—up 12% from 2023. 

This year, copper exports from the DRC could grow even more, fueled by a 3.7% increase in global demand, anticipated by Commodity Insights. Also, according to the British price analysis firm CRU Group, the DRC should produce 8% copper this year, compared to 2024. These developments solidify the DRC's position as the world's second-largest copper producer, a title it snatched from Peru in 2023. Last year, Peru’s copper output stood at 2.73 million tonnes, slumping by 0.7% year-on-year.

However, challenges persist. Congolese authorities have raised concerns that production from the Kamoa-Kakula mine is being sold at below-market prices, which could deprive the state of vital mining revenues. Moreover, the DRC must remain cautious about an economic slowdown in China—its top copper buyer—as this could impact export levels. During the first two months of 2025, imports of Congolese copper into China fell by 7.2%.

This article was initially published in French by Emiliano Tossou (Ecofin Agency)

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho