DRC and Zambia: the copper boom, an opportunity to be seized

As the Mining Indaba 2025 conference approaches, the continent's largest copper producers, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia, are stepping up their efforts to maximise the economic benefits of trade in this strategic metal. Together, these two countries account for more than 13% of the world's copper production, a figure set to grow with the exponential demand generated by artificial intelligence and renewable energies.

One of the major issues to be discussed at the conference is the desire of African states to strengthen their control over their mining resources. In the DRC, state-owned Gécamines is in the process of finalising an agreement with Swiss giant Glencore to manage and market the copper produced by the Kamoto Copper Company (KCC). This agreement is part of a wider policy aimed at increasing the share of national profits from the exploitation of mining resources.

For its part, Zambia, under the impetus of its government, is strengthening its strategy of partnership with international investors, while putting in place measures to guarantee maximum return of mining revenues to the national economy. In particular, President Hakainde Hichilema is working to relaunch operations at Mopani Copper Mines, while exploring new strategic alliances with foreign partners.

The desire of the DRC and Zambia to gain greater control over their mining resources is provoking contrasting reactions from the international business community. While some investors recognise the legitimacy of this approach, others fear that regulatory instability could slow down the influx of capital needed to develop the sector.

The discussions to be held at Mining Indaba 2025 will therefore be crucial in defining the balance between economic sovereignty and attractiveness to foreign investors. The challenge for the DRC and Zambia will be to reassure their partners while consolidating their position on the world copper market.

With the sector in the throes of transformation and demand booming, Mining Indaba 2025 could mark a decisive turning point for the African copper industry.