Uncertainty shrouds DRC-China mining deal restructuring, looming elections add to pressure

President Felix Tshisekedi’s visit to China has not succeeded in ensuring a restructuring of the minerals-for-infrastructure deal, analysts say. Both parties are yet to agree on the revised agreement, and nothing concrete was said in a post-meeting press release. Tshisekedi had promised he would revamp the deal before the Democratic Republic of Congo’s December elections, which is a difficult promise to keep amidst the ongoing pressure from political opponents. Congo announced earlier this year that the infrastructure promised in return for China getting 68% of a major mining stake has not been provided, prompting the need for restructuring the deal. The revision of the deal is necessary, especially considering Congo’s significant copper reserves and the world’s largest reserves of cobalt. However, renegotiating the deal with a strategic partner like China may not be a quick process. China says it will enhance cooperation with Congo and expects a fair, balanced and safe business environment for Chinese enterprises operating in the country.