[DRC Copper Exports Grow 10% Last Year, Easing Global Copper Supply Pressure] The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is projected to export nearly 10% more copper to 3.4 million tons by 2025 (up from 3.1 million tons the previous year), solidifying its position as the world's second-largest copper producer (after Chile). This increased production has alleviated some of the tight supply situation in the global copper market. Currently, the clean energy transition and the development of artificial intelligence are driving a surge in copper demand, while global mine accidents, production disruptions, and difficulties in building new capacity have exacerbated supply pressures, leading to a 40% increase in copper prices over the past year, reaching a record high of over $14,500 per tonne at the end of January. Robert Friedland, founder and co-chairman of Ivanhoe Mines, said in an interview this week, "The DRC will become a world leader. The country's copper production growth rate is currently the fastest in the world."
