Minerals

Minerals in Congo

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.

The Democratic Republic of Congo mineral resources are concentrated in key regions like the Copperbelt and the Kasai diamond fields, making the country a strategic hub in Africa’s resource economy. The Congo mineral wealth 2025 continues to attract global investors despite persistent challenges such as political instability and environmental concerns.

As the mining industry in Congo grows, accurate Congo mineral production statistics reveal its increasing contribution to the global supply chain. The rich natural resources of Congo DRC are both an opportunity and a responsibility—calling for sustainable and transparent exploitation.

Congo natural resources value

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of natural resources, with an estimated mineral wealth of over $24 trillion. Key resources include gold, copper, cobalt, coltan, diamonds, and tin.

The DRC supplies over 70% of the world’s cobalt, critical for electric vehicle batteries, and has vast gold and copper reserves in Katanga and Kivu.

Despite this immense potential, much of Congo’s natural wealth remains untapped or exploited informally. With strategic reforms and partnerships, the country could become a global leader in sustainable mining and resource-based economic growth, creating opportunities for both local development and foreign investment.

Below is a list of notable minerals in Congo: 

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.

Minerals in CONGO

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.

Diamonds in the Democratic Republic of Congo are primarily found in the Kasai region, particularly in provinces like Kasai-Oriental and Kasai-Western, with both industrial and artisanal mining activities prevalent.

Tin

Tin in the Democratic Republic of Congo is mainly found in the eastern provinces, particularly North Kivu and South Kivu, where artisanal mining and small-scale operations are common.

Congo Mineral List

Here’s a list of key minerals mined in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC):

  1. Cobalt

  2. Copper

  3. Gold

  4. Diamonds

  5. Tin

  6. Tungsten

  7. Coltan (Tantalum)

  8. Zinc

  9. Lead

  10. Lithium

  11. Iron ore

  12. Manganese

  13. Bauxite

These minerals are vital for various industries, including electronics, construction, and automotive manufacturing.

In what resources is the congo rich 

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is rich in the following five key natural resources:

  1. Cobalt – DRC produces over 70% of the world’s supply, crucial for batteries and electric vehicles.

  2. Copper – Vast high-grade reserves, especially in the Katanga region.

  3. Gold – Abundant in eastern Congo, especially in South Kivu and Ituri.

  4. Coltan – Essential for electronics (smartphones, laptops), widely mined in the east.

  5. Diamonds – Congo is a major producer of industrial and gem-quality diamonds.

 

Mining industry in Congo

The mining industry in Congo (DRC) is one of the richest and most controversial in the world. The country holds vast reserves of gold, cobalt, copper, diamonds, and coltan, making it a key player in global mineral supply chains.

However, the sector is plagued by illegal mining, poor regulation, and child labor in artisanal mines. Despite these issues, Congo’s mining sector contributes significantly to its GDP and foreign exchange earnings. Global tech and energy firms rely on Congolese cobalt for electric batteries.

Investors are drawn to the gold mining opportunities in Congo, especially in regions like Ituri and South Kivu.

For sustainable growth, the DRC mining industry must improve transparency, infrastructure, and enforcement of mining laws.

List of Congo gold mining companies

1. Banro Corporation
Banro Corporation, headquartered in Canada, operates the Twangiza and Namoya mines located in South Kivu and Maniema provinces. Focused on industrial gold mining, Banro was among the first foreign firms to establish large-scale gold operations in post-war DRC.

However, due to regional instability and armed group activity, Banro has temporarily suspended operations in the past. Despite setbacks, the company remains a key gold stakeholder in the Congo mining sector and continues seeking operational recovery and investor partnerships.


2. Kibali Gold Mine (Barrick & AngloGold Ashanti)
The Kibali Gold Mine, located in Haut-Uélé Province, is one of Africa’s largest gold-producing mines, yielding over 600,000 ounces annually.

Operated through a joint venture between Barrick Gold (45%), AngloGold Ashanti (45%), and state-owned SOKIMO (10%), the mine showcases advanced mechanized mining and sustainable practices.

It’s considered a flagship project for DRC’s large-scale mining sector and has significantly boosted the country’s export revenues and local employment, while also improving infrastructure in the northeastern region.


3. SOKIMO (Société Minière de Kilo-Moto)
SOKIMO is a state-owned enterprise in the Democratic Republic of Congo, holding strategic stakes in various mining operations across the country.

It has partnered with major international firms, including Barrick Gold and AngloGold Ashanti, particularly in the Kibali project. SOKIMO plays a vital role in representing government interests in the mining sector, ensuring national benefit from foreign investments.

Though not a producer itself, its stakeholding and negotiation power make it a central figure in Congo’s gold mining ecosystem.


4. Manono Gold Project (AVZ Minerals)
While the Manono Project, operated by AVZ Minerals, is best known for its lithium reserves in Tanganyika Province, the site is also being explored for gold potential.

Situated in one of the world’s largest undeveloped lithium-rich pegmatites, early geological surveys suggest the presence of gold as a secondary resource.

Though still in its exploration phase, this dual-mineral potential could diversify AVZ’s portfolio, making Manono significant for both critical metals and future gold production in southern DRC.


5. Anvil Mining (Now MMG Limited)
Anvil Mining, previously a major player in DRC’s copper sector, is now part of MMG Limited, a global mining company.

While primarily known for base metals, the company has shown interest in multi-mineral ventures, including gold exploration in southeastern DRC. Its previous assets in Katanga placed it among the region’s important industrial operators.

Though gold remains a minor focus, Anvil/MMG’s technical expertise and capital strength make it a potential future stakeholder in Congo’s gold sector.


6. Alphamin Resources
Alphamin Resources, based in North Kivu, is recognized for operating one of the highest-grade tin mines globally. However, the company is surveying gold prospects in surrounding territories, aiming to diversify its mineral portfolio.

Situated in a region with significant artisanal mining activity, Alphamin’s expansion into gold exploration could formalize and develop overlooked gold reserves.

Their presence offers economic potential and responsible mining practices in a region often dominated by informal operations and small-scale miners.


 Artisanal & Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Congo
ASGM plays a major role in DRC’s gold production, especially in Ituri, South Kivu, and Maniema. Thousands of miners work in informal or semi-formal cooperatives, often in remote, conflict-prone zones. Though yields are modest individually, collectively they contribute significantly to the nation’s output.

However, ASGM is linked to challenges like lack of regulation, environmental degradation, and illegal trade.

Efforts are ongoing to integrate these miners into formal markets through training, regulation, and traceability programs for conflict-free gold.

Rare Earth Minerals in Congo

Biggest mining companies in Congo

e Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is home to some of the world’s top mining companies due to its vast mineral reserves. Leading companies include Glencore, which operates through its subsidiary Katanga Mining, China Molybdenum Co. Ltd. (CMOC) with stakes in the Tenke Fungurume Mine, and Barrick Gold, active in gold-rich regions like Kibali.

Ivanhoe Mines is a major copper and cobalt developer, while Trade Panel International Limited, a Congolese-licensed exporter, is a rising player in the ethical gold and mineral trade. These companies play a key role in DRC’s mining economy, infrastructure, and exports.

Congo Map of Minerals

Minerals in Congo

Which Part of DRC is Rich in Minerals?

The eastern and southern regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are the richest in minerals. Key mineral-rich areas include:

  1. Katanga Province (now Haut-Katanga, Lualaba) – rich in copper and cobalt

  2. Ituri Province – known for high-grade gold deposits

  3. South Kivu and North Kivu – rich in coltan, tin, gold, and tungsten

  4. Maniema – deposits of gold, cassiterite, and diamonds

  5. Kasai region – known for diamonds

These regions attract both legal mining companies and illegal artisanal miners, often fueling conflict mineral issues. If you’re sourcing ethically, work with licensed exporters and companies like Trade Panel International Limited.

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

  1. 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).

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. Get Certification and Documentation
    All minerals (gold, coltan, cobalt, etc.) must be accompanied by:

    • Certificate of Origin

    • Export permit

    • Tax clearance

    • Due diligence reports

  5. Pay Duties and Taxes
    Buyers must pay applicable taxes to the Congolese government, including royalties, export duties, and possibly VAT.

  6. Avoid Sanctioned Zones
    Some provinces or mines may be under embargo. Always check UN or US OFAC sanctions lists.

  7. 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.

DRC Mining Regulations 2025

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to strengthen its mining regulations in 2025 to enhance transparency, increase state revenues, and attract ethical investment.

Under the 2018 Mining Code—still enforced in 2025—foreign investors must partner with a Congolese entity, and the state holds a 10% free equity stake in all mining projects. Royalties on gold, cobalt, and copper remain high, with 5% on strategic minerals like cobalt.

Exporters must obtain certified mining licenses and adhere to due diligence requirements to prevent the trade of conflict minerals.

The government has also intensified environmental and community impact assessments. Companies like Trade Panel International Limited follow these legal frameworks for responsible mineral sourcing and export from the DRC.

Ready to invest in Congo mineral?

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) offers unmatched opportunities in gold, cobalt, copper, and more, backed by trillion-dollar resource potential. However, navigating this market requires compliance, ethics, and experience.

Whether you’re an investor, trader, or manufacturer, now is the time to engage with Congo’s booming mining sector responsibly and profitably.

Partner with Trade Panel International Limited—a licensed Congolese exporter—to ensure legal, conflict-free, and traceable mineral transactions.

Benefit from:

  • Secure logistics & shipping

  • Regulatory compliance & certification

  • Direct sourcing from trusted mines

Contact us today to start sourcing minerals or investing in the DRC’s mining future—ethically, transparently, and profitably.