The Democratic Republic of Congo is set to begin exporting copper cathodes to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates under a partnership backed by the United States, as global competition intensifies for critical industrial metals. The initiative is part of efforts to diversify Congo’s export markets beyond traditional buyers, Reuters reported.
The arrangement involves Congo’s state miner Gécamines and commodities trader Mercuria, with support linked to U.S. initiatives aimed at strengthening supply chains for strategic minerals. Officials said the project will channel Congolese copper to Gulf markets seeking secure supplies for construction, manufacturing and clean-energy industries.
U.S. backing, including engagement by development finance institutions, is intended to underpin logistics and financing for the exports while promoting alternative trade routes. The move aligns with Washington’s broader strategy to reduce reliance on concentrated supply chains and deepen commercial ties between African producers and Middle Eastern markets.
Business Insider Africa says the plan could enhance Congo’s position in global copper markets while opening new commercial relationships with the Gulf states. The exports also reflect growing geopolitical interest in Africa’s mineral resources as demand for energy-transition metals continues to rise.
