Zambia Reinstates Acid Exports to DRC Amid Global Battery Mineral Surge Lusaka, Zambia — In a strategic move to address the global surge in demand for battery minerals, particularly copper and cobalt, Zambia’s Commerce Minister, Chipoka Mulenga, has announced the resumption of sulphuric acid exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This decision comes in response to the global scramble for battery minerals, which are essential for electric vehicles and clean energy technologies.
The authorization to recommence exports was granted to Chambishi Copper Smelter and Mopani Copper Mines, ensuring the critical role of sulphuric acid in the extraction process of these critical materials.
The export ban on sulphuric acid was initially imposed in March 2026, following supply shortages and disruptions in the region’s copperbelt.
The recent decision to lift the ban follows a recovery in domestic inventories, ensuring that the domestic market is not compromised.
The Central African copperbelt, a region rich in copper and cobalt, has witnessed a significant increase in mining operations, driven by the global demand for these minerals.
According to Africa Business Insider, the move is a partial relaxation of export curbs imposed last year due to supply shortages and concerns among miners in the DRC.
The relaxation of the ban is a direct response to the global scramble for battery minerals, indicating an intensification of the mining sector’s importance. Zambia’s action is expected to ease the supply chain challenges faced by the mining industry in the region.
However, there are unanswered questions regarding the sustainability of the supply of sulphuric acid, including measures being taken to ensure that the supply does not fall short again and how the limited resumption of exports will impact the local mining industry in Zambia.
The current sulphuric acid stocks in Zambia are being closely monitored to ensure that the resumption of exports does not lead to shortages in the domestic market.
The resumption of exports also comes as the Zambian government reviews its export policies to balance the needs of the domestic market with the global demand for these critical minerals.
The stability of the supply chain in the region is crucial for the continued growth of the electric vehicle and clean energy sectors.
As the global scramble for battery minerals shows no signs of abating, Zambia’s decision to reinstate sulphuric acid exports is a strategic move to support the growth of the mining industry and meet the global demand for these critical minerals.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Ayodeji Adegboyega
