The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has firmly rejected proposals to “auction” its mineral resources to the United States, reaffirming its control over one of the world’s most valuable mining sectors.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has firmly rejected proposals to “auction” its mineral resources to the United States, reaffirming its control over one of the world’s most valuable mining sectors.

• The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) rejected proposals to auction its mineral resources to the US, signaling its strategic autonomy.
• The DRC signed a strategic deal with China and seeks balanced negotiations with the US regarding mineral investments.
• Chinese firms continue to lead investments in crucial mines, while the DRC actively regulates mineral exports to assert control.
• A conflict in Eastern Congo persists despite a US-brokered peace agreement with Rwanda aimed at stabilizing the region.

Strategic Deals and Foreign Investment

According to Sputnik, President Félix Tshisekedi said the country will continue to attract foreign investment, but only on terms that protect national interests.

The DRC has signed a strategic deal with China and is in talks with the United States for a similar arrangement, seeking to secure long-term benefits while protecting its strategic minerals and national sovereignty, rather than granting Washington preferential terms.

Also read: Behind the D.R. Congo-Rwanda peace deal: Why Washington is pushing for a bigger role

US Efforts and Peace Mediation

The new approach follows earlier efforts by the Trump administration to encourage US and Western investment in the DRC’s mining sector in early 2025. On 20 March, it issued an executive order to secure access to critical minerals, including cobalt and copper, which are vital for industries such as defense, electronics, automotive, and energy.

The initiative also included a multibillion-dollar fund for overseas mining projects, with the US International Development Finance Corporation and Orion Resource Partners each committing at least $600 million to support development in the DRC.

In parallel, the United States facilitated a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, signed on 27 June 2025, aimed at reducing fighting in eastern Congo and creating a more stable environment for investment.

President Tshisekedi, however, noted that conflict in the region persists, while expressing gratitude for US efforts to promote regional stability.

Also read:Switzerland’s mining giant considers exit as DRC cobalt exports remain suspended

Chinese Companies and Mining Presence

Chinese companies remain major investors in the central African country. CMOC Group operates the Tenke Fungurume mine, one of the world’s largest cobalt producers, while Zijin Mining Group manages one of the country’s largest copper mines. Both hold long-term agreements with the DRC government and continue to play a key role in the nation’s mineral exports.

Cobalt Export Ban and Quota System

The DRC’s cobalt export ban, implemented earlier in 2025, has affected several mining firms, including Glencore, forcing them to halt or scale back shipments while the government reviews regulations.

The ban highlighted the government’s willingness to assert control over strategic minerals, even as it seeks to attract foreign investment.

Balancing Investment and Sovereignty

While the exact terms and conditions of a potential agreement with the United States remain unclear, the DRC continues to balance foreign investment with sovereignty over its resources.

Through careful negotiations with international partners and policies such as the upcoming cobalt export quota, the government aims to sustain economic growth while managing security challenges in the eastern region.

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