United States copper imports from DRC hit record high

United States copper imports from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) reached a record 53,290 metric tons in July 2026. This volume accounted for 23.9% of all U.S. copper imports for the month, as total U.S. imports exceeded 220,000 tons for the first time.

This surge represents a significant increase compared to 2024, when the U.S. imported fewer than 32,000 tons of Congolese copper over the entire year. The growth is driven by competitive pricing, with Congolese copper reportedly selling at discounts of $550 to $800 per ton compared to London Metal Exchange prices. Because Congolese copper is largely traded directly in the physical market rather than through COMEX, it avoids the premiums associated with major exchanges.

The increased trade follows a strategic partnership agreement established between Washington and Kinshasa in December 2025. This alliance aims to secure long-term access for American companies to critical minerals, including copper and cobalt, which are essential for the energy, technology, and defense sectors. The mining sector remains vital to the DRC, accounting for over 95% of its export revenues.