DRC becomes second-largest copper supplier to the United States

The United States reached a record monthly import of 225,094 metric tons of refined copper and copper alloys in July 2026, marking the highest level since statistical tracking began in 1990. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has emerged as a major supplier, accounting for approximately 24% of these imports (56,274 tons), positioning it as the second-largest supplier behind Chile, which provided 46%.

This shift reflects a strategic effort by both nations. For Washington, the increase is part of an offensive to secure critical minerals, particularly copper and cobalt, through a strategic partnership agreement established in December 2025. This agreement facilitates direct access for American companies to Congolese resources, including rights of first offer on projects and facilitated offtake contracts.

For the DRC, the growing trade with the U.S. and Europe represents a diversification strategy intended to reduce long-standing economic dependence on China. According to the Technical Coordination and Mining Planning Cell (CTCPM), sales of Congolese copper to Western markets have doubled compared to 2025, supported by the state-owned Gécamines.