The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is preparing to halt the export of raw minerals, marking a significant step toward reducing its reliance on foreign processing and strengthening its industrial base.
This development aligns with the government’s broader strategy for national economic growth and resource sovereignty.
This initiative was highlighted during a meeting held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, between Minister of Foreign Trade Julien Paluku and Eddy Kioni, Director of Buenassa, a 100% Congolese-owned company spearheading the country’s first copper and cobalt refinery project.
Minister Paluku commended the progress made by Buenassa, which aims to refine key Congolese minerals—particularly copper and cobalt—within the country.
“I was pleased to welcome Eddy Kioni today, promoter of the DRC’s first copper and cobalt refinery project, under the 100% Congolese company Buenassa.
This project supports the vision of President Félix Tshisekedi and reflects the government’s commitment to developing critical minerals locally.
In the current global context of geostrategic competition, this initiative reinforces our economic sovereignty.
With an initial grant of USD 3.5 million from the Industry Promotion Fund, I’m encouraged to hear that scoping studies are complete and that pre-feasibility and feasibility studies are now underway,” said Minister Paluku.
The refinery aims to produce 120,000 tons of copper cathodes and 20,000 tons of cobalt sulfate annually.
According to the minister, the project will have a transformative impact on regional development, particularly as part of the Lobito Corridor—a key infrastructure and trade route that is central to the DRC’s long-term economic strategy.
