US eyes critical minerals exploration partnership in DRC
The United States Department of State has shown a strong interest in establishing critical mineral partnerships with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), recognizing the country’s substantial share of the world’s essential mineral reserves.
The DRC holds a significant portion of global cobalt supplies, a key component in electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy technologies. This interest reflects the US strategy to secure reliable supply chains for critical minerals while reducing dependence on China, which currently dominates this sector.
Potential partnership
Efforts to strengthen ties include recent diplomatic exchanges. Andre Wameso, Deputy Chief of Staff to President Felix Tshisekedi, recently visited Washington to explore the potential for collaboration. Additionally, Congolese government spokesman Patrick Muyaya confirmed that both governments are engaged in ongoing discussions. Meanwhile, a lobbyist representing Congolese Senator Pierre Kanda Kalambayi reportedly proposed US investment in the DRC’s mineral sector in exchange for support in ensuring regional stability. However, the Congolese government has not officially endorsed this proposal.
Despite the positive momentum, certain challenges remain. China’s dominance in Congo’s mineral sector presents a significant obstacle for US firms, especially since the US does not have state-owned mining companies, unlike China. Additionally, a scheduled meeting between a Congolese delegation and the US House Foreign Affairs Committee was abruptly cancelled, highlighting the early-stage nature of these discussions and the complexity of forging a sustainable partnership.
Adding to the complexity, the DRC recently imposed a temporary ban on cobalt exports due to market oversupply. The export halt, which took effect on February 22, is expected to last at least four months. This decision could tighten global cobalt supplies, potentially driving up prices and influencing future trade dynamics between the DRC and its global partners.
