China and DRC – The Democratic Republic of the Congo could soon host one of the world’s largest copper mines following fresh talks between Congolese authorities and a subsidiary of China Railway Group, highlighting the intensifying global scramble for critical minerals.
According to statements released by Congo’s Ministry of Mines, executives from the Chinese state-backed company, widely known as CREC, met with Mines Minister Louis Watum to discuss plans for a major copper project in Kasai-Oriental province. The proposed mine is expected to produce between 200,000 and 500,000 metric tons of copper annually.
If production reaches the upper end of projections, the operation would rank among the world’s biggest copper mines, placing Congo even deeper at the centre of the global energy transition economy, where copper remains essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, battery storage, and power infrastructure.
This Will Enhance Infrastructure in the Country
Also, the project would reportedly be developed through a joint venture involving a CREC subsidiary and Congo’s state-owned diamond company MIBA. Initial discussions also included plans for supporting energy infrastructure, including hydropower and solar generation facilities.
Over the past decade, Congo has more than tripled its copper production, overtaking several global competitors to become the world’s second-largest supplier of the metal after Chile.
However, Chinese companies already dominate large sections of the Congolese mining industry, with investments spanning copper, cobalt, transport infrastructure, and refining operations.
The development comes as geopolitical competition over critical minerals continues to intensify between China and the United States. Washington has recently sought to expand its presence in Congo’s mining sector through new strategic mineral partnerships aimed at reducing dependence on Chinese-controlled supply chains.
Analysts say the proposed project reflects China’s determination to maintain its dominant role in Africa’s critical minerals sector as global demand for copper and cobalt surges amid the worldwide push toward clean energy and industrial electrification.
