2025 Complete List of Minerals in Congo
Minerals in Congo: The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is globally renowned for its extraordinary mineral endowment. As one of the most mineral-rich countries in Africa, the DRC boasts vast reserves of cobalt, copper, gold, diamonds, coltan, and other critical resources. These minerals in Congo DRC are not only vital to local economic development but also fuel global industries, especially in technology and electronics manufacturing.
GOLD in Congo
Gold production in Uganda and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has increased drastically. Currently, gold accounts for 30 percent of export revenue in Uganda and about 38 percent in the DR Congo.
With gold deposits that are widely distributed across Uganda and DRC, we developed interest in investing in gold mining and today, we are among the leading exporters and producers of gold in East Africa.
Gold in Congo is primarily found in regions such as Ituri, North Kivu, South Kivu, and the eastern provinces, often associated with artisanal and small-scale mining.
COPPER
Copper is one of the valuable minerals Trade Panel International Limited deals in. Our copper is mined in the Democratic Republic of Congo, largely in the Copper Belt of the southern Katanga Provinces.
The Katanga/Shaba copper belt in the DR Congo has a width of approximately 70km and a length of 250 km between Lubumbashi and Kolwezi. Over 72 economic deposits of copper and 4 large mining centers exist here making it one of the world’s largest reserves of copper.
The DR Congo copper belt includes some of the highest-grade copper deposits in the world. In some reserves, the grades are over 5 percent, and ore also comprises of high grades of cobalt and holds about 34 percent of the global cobalt reserves. More large deposits still exist and yet to be explored using modern technology.
Copper in the Democratic Republic of Congo is predominantly located in the Katanga region, particularly in the Copperbelt area, which includes provinces like Lualaba and Haut-Katanga, known for extensive mining activities.
Whereas there are many companies that deal in copper production, Trade Panel International Limited is the one most outstanding, trustworthy and reliable company to deal with. We have been in this business for over 10 years and based on our experience, we rate among a few best copper producers in Africa.
Other valuable minerals that Trade Panel International Limited deals in besides gold and copper include;
Cobalt
Cobalt is one of the minerals that we deal in and it is extracted from the deposits in the DR Congo. Cobalt we do sell is mainly used in the manufacture of magnetic, wear resistant and high strength alloys.
Cobalt in the Democratic Republic of Congo is mainly extracted from the Copperbelt region, particularly in Haut-Katanga and Lualaba provinces, where significant mining operations and artisanal activities occur.
Diamond
Diamond is one of the few valuable minerals mined in Africa, and the DR Congo features among the leading five diamond producers. In Africa,the DRC is the second-largest diamond producer.
Tin
Cobalt Mining in Congo
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the world’s leading producer of cobalt, accounting for over 70% of global supply. Cobalt is a critical component in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, smartphones, and green energy technologies.
Most cobalt mining in Congo occurs in the southern Katanga region, with both industrial and artisanal mining operations contributing to output. Global tech companies and battery manufacturers are increasingly sourcing from Congo’s cobalt mines, making it a central player in the energy transition. Ethical sourcing and child labor concerns remain ongoing challenges in this high-demand sector.
Buy Copper from Congo
The DRC is rich in copper resources, particularly in the Copperbelt region near Zambia. If you’re looking to buy copper from Congo, it’s important to work with licensed exporters and verify origin documentation.
Congo’s copper is highly sought after due to its purity and availability in large quantities. Companies like Trade Panel International Limited can help buyers connect with trusted copper producers, ensuring transparency and legal compliance.
With rising demand for copper in electronics, construction, and EV manufacturing, the DRC remains a strategic source for global copper supply.
DRC Mining Investment Opportunities
The DRC mining sector presents vast opportunities for foreign and regional investors. With rich reserves of gold, copper, cobalt, coltan, and diamonds, the country holds some of the most lucrative untapped deposits in Africa.
DRC mining investment opportunities include partnerships with local companies, acquiring mining concessions, or investing in mineral processing facilities.
Sectors like gold refining, cobalt smelting, and logistics are ripe for development. The government has improved mining laws to encourage foreign direct investment while ensuring local participation.
Partnering with established firms like Trade Panel International Limited provides a reliable entry point into the market.
How to Buy Minerals Legally from Congo
Obtain an Import/Export License
Work with a DRC-licensed exporter or become one through the Ministry of Mines. Ensure the company is registered with the CEEC (Centre d’Expertise, d’Evaluation et de Certification).Comply with DRC Mining Laws
Familiarize yourself with DRC’s 2018 Mining Code and 2019 regulations. All mineral exports must be declared, valued, and taxed.Use Traceable and Conflict-Free Sources
Work only with suppliers who are certified through traceability programs such as ICGLR, ITSCI, or OECD-aligned Due Diligence.Get Certification and Documentation
All minerals (gold, coltan, cobalt, etc.) must be accompanied by:Certificate of Origin
Export permit
Tax clearance
Due diligence reports
Pay Duties and Taxes
Buyers must pay applicable taxes to the Congolese government, including royalties, export duties, and possibly VAT.Avoid Sanctioned Zones
Some provinces or mines may be under embargo. Always check UN or US OFAC sanctions lists.Work With Legal Intermediaries
Partner with a local agent or mineral trading company licensed in Congo for secure logistics, legal clearance, and customs handling.
Congo natural resources conflict
Yet Congo remains plagued by ongoing conflict and instability. These valuable minerals, often dubbed “conflict minerals,” have fueled decades of armed violence, corruption, and illegal trade.
Rebel groups and militias control key mining zones, using the profits to finance weapons and war. Despite global efforts like the Dodd-Frank Act and international monitoring, illicit mining and human rights abuses persist.
The struggle over control of resources has displaced communities and hindered national development. To ensure ethical sourcing, buyers and investors must prioritize traceability, transparency, and partnerships with licensed suppliers like Trade Panel International Limited operating under legal frameworks.