The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) exported 6,642 tons of zinc between January and September 2024. Over the same period the year before, the country had exported 10.336 tons or 35.74% more, according to the Ministry of Mines.

So far, Congolese authorities have not officially explained what drove the drop. However, the trend could reverse this year, spurred by the ramp-up of the Kipushi mine, operated by Ivanhoe Mines. 

Commissioned in July 2024, Kipushi delivered 50,307 tonnes of zinc concentrate during the year, achieving a monthly record of 14,900 tonnes in December, though still shy of its maximum capacity.

The outlook for 2025 is more optimistic. This year, Ivanhoe Mines expects the asset to produce between 180,000 and 240,000 tonnes of zinc concentrate. The burst should significantly boost the DRC’s exports and bolster its mining revenues.

This article was initially published in French by Olivier de Souza

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho