DRC Mining Exports Show Upward Trend Amid Rising Copper, Cobalt, and Gold Prices

Congo’s copper, cobalt, and gold exports rise in 2026, boosting mining sector revenues

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is witnessing an upward trend in the international prices of its key mining exports, according to the latest official projections.

The National Market Commission of the Ministry of Foreign Trade reported that for the period from April 6 to 11, 2026, several strategic raw materials are expected to record weekly price increases.

Copper: Primary export on the rise

Copper, the country’s main export, is projected to trade at $12,143.30 per ton, up from $11,949 the previous week, marking an increase of $194.

In terms of production, provisional 2025 statistics indicate that the DRC produced a total of 3,503,539.84 tonnes of copper, reinforcing its role as a leading global supplier.

Gold: Gradual recovery

Gold, which experienced a month-long decline in March 2026, is showing a modest rebound, with prices expected to reach $150.65 per gram, up from $150.18 a week earlier.

For context, gold prices had surpassed $170 per gram earlier in March 2026. Annual production in 2025 amounted to 28,202.89 kg, a 4% increase from 27,037.84 kg in 2024.

Production is largely driven by industrial mining in the Haut-Uélé province, while artisanal mining continues across multiple provinces.

Gold exports totaled 28,201.14 kg in 2025, with an estimated value exceeding $2.2 billion, underlining its strategic importance to the country’s export revenues.

Cobalt: Strengthening global position

Cobalt, another key export, is also trending upward, with prices expected to reach $55,607 per ton, up from $55,594 the previous week.

The DRC, the world’s leading cobalt producer, recorded a production of 44,543.09 tonnes in 2025, consolidating its position in the global market.

Mining sector remains a critical economic lever

In a global context affected by geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, rising commodity prices combined with sustained production levels provide a significant boost to the Congolese economy.

With the country heavily reliant on its extractive sector, these developments offer important support for state revenues and economic stability.