Congo Declares Lithium a Strategic Mineral, State Share May Increase

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has decided to include lithium in its list of strategic minerals in order to increase revenues from critical minerals. This step aims for the country to obtain a larger share from lithium mining. Officials indicate that with lithium classified as a strategic mineral, the state's share from this resource could rise to up to 10 percent. Under current regulations, this rate is at lower levels. The DRC is the world's largest cobalt producer and plans to strengthen its presence in this area as demand for battery metals like lithium increases. The country aims to become a key player in the global supply chain for minerals used especially in electric vehicle batteries. This move is seen as part of the DRC's efforts to increase control over natural resources and to collect higher taxes and royalties from mining companies. Experts say such regulations could create uncertainty for investors but may positively contribute to the country's revenues in the long term. This is not investment advice.