**Fatshimetrie**
The copper market, a pillar of the economy in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is undergoing a major transformation. During the month of November 2024, copper prices experienced a significant decline, settling at USD 8,924.05 per tonne, a decrease of 2.85% compared to previous periods. This downward trend is not isolated and is part of a global context where other metals such as zinc, gold, and silver have also seen their prices fall.
Experts from the Ministry of Foreign Trade note that zinc is now trading at USD 29,490.05, down 0.64%, and gold at USD 1,083.78, down 2.72%. However, among these fluctuations, cobalt and tantalum stand out, recording increases of 0.05% and 0.35% respectively.
The Democratic Republic of Congo, as one of the world’s leading copper producers, is particularly affected by these developments, which can have a significant impact on its export revenues and its economy as a whole. A prolonged decline in copper prices risks discouraging investment in the mining sector and slowing the country’s economic growth.
This price decline is partly attributed to an economic slowdown in China, the world’s largest consumer of copper. With a reduction in demand for this metal, the DRC must adapt and take measures to stabilize its revenues and diversify its economy.
However, the long-term outlook remains encouraging for copper. Experts believe that demand is expected to increase as part of the global energy transition and the rise of green technologies, which require significant quantities of copper.
For the DRC, this implies the need to adopt varied strategies to preserve its position in the copper market while exploring opportunities for economic diversification. Investments in other key sectors and improving the supply chain to maximize export benefits could prove essential to ensure the country’s resilience and economic prosperity in the long term.
In conclusion, the DRC must remain vigilant to fluctuations in the copper market and seize transformation opportunities to ensure its economic stability and sustainable development.
*Written by Mitterrand MASAMUNA for Fatshimetrie*