US has shifted to challenge China’s control of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) mining sector, initiating negotiations for a proposed “minerals-for-security” agreement. According to the proposal, Kinshasa would provide Washington with access to its enormous copper and cobalt deposits in return for security assurances and military assistance. This is a new chapter in US-China competition, where strategic minerals needed by global industries are the new battleground.
Yet, analysts caution that the reluctance of American companies, security threats, and China’s entrenched presence might make the way ahead more complicated. A long-term transition will take courageous investment, improved business environment, and a peace strategy over the long term.
US Eyes Congo’s Critical Minerals Amid Rising Violence
Kinshasa has made a ambitious proposal. In exchange for access to vital minerals, it is offering security aid to stem violence that is being driven by the M23 rebels in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. US participation would be a replication of China’s previous “minerals-for-infrastructure” policy but would now include military support in the package.
President Donald Trump’s Africa adviser, Massad Boulos, said that discussions have taken a “path forward,” indicating increasing US ambition in the area.
China’s Long Command of DRC’s Mining under New Threats
China has long controlled DRC’s mining industry via the 2007 minerals-for-infrastructure agreement. Firms such as China Railway Group and Sinohydro Corporation spent billions to acquire mineral rights. Though renegotiated in 2023 on more favorable equity, the deal solidified China’s grip.
The US now intends to ease that grip by diversifying supply chains with initiatives like the Lobito Corridor, connecting DRC, Angola, and Zambia.
Big Hurdles Block Path for US
New diplomatic efforts notwithstanding, American businesses continue to regard the DRC as riskier. Investment reservations still linger owing to insecurity and poor financial backing from US banks. As noted by expert Wei Shen, even with a pullout by Chinese businesses, Western companies may not fill the gap soon.
Additionally, with global supply frameworks, a significant amount of DRC’s mined minerals continue to be processed in China, capping the near-term effects of US actions.
Small Changes and Fresh Prospects
Purportedly, changes in direction have already started. Following a US diplomatic delegation, Alphamin Resources has made a staged return at its Bisie tin mine after rebel withdrawals. This indicates that even small security improvements might resurrect mining activity.
Joseph Cihunda emphasized the DRC sector as being underdeveloped with “plenty of room” for new entrants — on the condition the business climate gets better.
Strategic Stakes Are Rising
Control over Congo’s cobalt and copper matters more than ever. Cobalt powers electric vehicles and smartphones, and copper drives global infrastructure. As the US and China expand their fight for dominance, Africa’s mineral wealth sits at the heart of a new global race.
Both powers know the winner here could shape the future of green technology, energy independence, and strategic influence.
