Zambia Reopens Limited Sulphuric Acid Exports to DR Congo as Supply Stabilizes

Zambia has authorized two major copper producers to resume sulphuric acid exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo following the easing of restrictions introduced amid recent supply disruptions linked to global geopolitical tensions and the Iran-related conflict.

The decision reflects improving domestic supply conditions after temporary shortages had prompted the government to restrict outbound shipments in order to prioritize local industrial needs.

Approved Companies for Export Resumption

Zambia’s Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister, Chipoka Mulenga, confirmed that export approvals have been granted to:

• Chambishi Copper Smelter
• Mopani Copper Mines

The companies will now be permitted to export limited quantities of sulphuric acid, with the government maintaining oversight to ensure domestic supply stability is not compromised.

Balancing Domestic Demand and Regional Trade

Authorities emphasized that the resumption of exports is carefully controlled, with restrictions still in place to protect local industries that depend on sulphuric acid as a critical input, particularly in mining and mineral processing.

The minister noted that export volumes will remain capped, although specific figures were not disclosed, reflecting the government’s cautious approach to managing industrial inputs.

Strategic Importance of Sulphuric Acid in Copper Production

Zambia, Africa’s second-largest copper producer, generates approximately 2 million metric tons of sulphuric acid annually as a byproduct of copper smelting.

Sulphuric acid plays a vital role in:

• Copper leaching and processing operations
• Mining activities across the region, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo
• Supporting broader industrial chemical supply chains

Its availability is therefore closely tied to the stability and efficiency of the regional mining sector.

Regional Supply Chain and Industrial Linkages

The Democratic Republic of Congo remains one of Zambia’s key industrial partners, with cross-border supply chains linking copper production, processing inputs, and chemical distribution networks.

The resumption of controlled exports is expected to ease pressure on regional supply chains while maintaining sufficient domestic reserves in Zambia.

Conclusion

The decision by the Zambian government to allow limited sulphuric acid exports marks a calibrated return to regional trade flows following recent supply disruptions.

By permitting controlled shipments from Chambishi Copper Smelter and Mopani Copper Mines, authorities aim to balance industrial stability at home with continued cooperation within the Southern and Central African mining ecosystem.

As global supply chains remain sensitive to geopolitical developments, Zambia’s approach reflects a broader strategy of managing critical industrial inputs while sustaining export-driven economic activity.