**Fatshimetrie: Strengthening Chinese Investments in the Democratic Republic of Congo**
The recent China-DRC Economic Forum, held in Beijing in early September 2024, opened new perspectives for Sino-Congolese cooperation. During this event, President Félix Tshisekedi stressed the importance of strengthening Chinese investments in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to stimulate the country’s economic development. A recommendation that gave rise to the creation of a Task Force dedicated to this mission.
Faced with the economic and political challenges, the Congolese ministers set up an ad hoc commission responsible for developing the terms of reference for the implementation of the Task Force. The latter will consist of three key entities: a Steering Committee, a Strategic Committee and a Permanent Secretariat. Each of these bodies will be tasked with supervising and supporting Chinese investment projects in identified priority sectors, such as infrastructure, mining, and trade.
China is now the DRC’s main economic partner, accounting for nearly half of Congolese exports. Indeed, in 2023, Chinese imports from the DRC reached $18.7 billion, mainly focused on copper and cobalt ores, essential raw materials for the technology industry.
This initiative to strengthen Chinese investment is part of a long-term vision aimed at consolidating the strategic partnership between the DRC and China. By capitalizing on Congo’s vast mineral resources and promoting large-scale economic development projects, the Congolese government hopes to open up new perspectives and boost the country’s economy.
It is undeniable that this increased collaboration with China could generate positive spinoffs for the DRC, by promoting job creation, technology transfer and the development of new infrastructure. However, it is also essential that these investments are part of a vision of sustainable development, respectful of the environment and the rights of local populations.
While the Task Force is implementing the first concrete actions to strengthen Sino-Congolese cooperation, the future of this economic alliance looks promising and full of hope for the development of the Democratic Republic of Congo.