China leads the critical minerals race in Africa with over $10 billion in investments, focusing on cobalt, lithium, and rare earths, particularly in the DRC. Experts suggest that its significant head start positions China favorably against competitors like the United States.
China maintains a dominant position in the race for critical minerals in Africa, facilitated by significant investments and strategic initiatives. Experts highlight that China’s investment in the continent’s mining sector has exceeded $10 billion, primarily focusing on critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium, and rare earths, particularly throughout 2023 and 2024. This concentrated effort follows nearly two years of the global pandemic, during which China resumed and intensified its economic engagement in Africa.
Key countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Botswana, and Zimbabwe have become focal points for Chinese companies. The DRC, hosting the world’s largest cobalt production, attracted around $1 billion from Chinese investments in 2023 alone, cementing its status as a pivotal player in global supply chains. Experts assert that with a substantial head start in securing these resources, China is well-positioned to maintain its leadership despite increasing competition from other nations, including the United States.
China’s strategy is largely driven by its demand for essential minerals to support advanced manufacturing, renewable energy initiatives, and defense capabilities. As the U.S. grapples with its response to this competition, it faces the challenge of lagging behind China’s proactive measures and established trade relationships in Africa’s mineral markets.
In summary, China continues to assert its leadership in the critical minerals sector in Africa, driven by over $10 billion in investments and a strategic focus on essential minerals such as cobalt and lithium. The Democratic Republic of Congo remains a central hub for these investments. The sustained efforts of Chinese firms to secure these resources highlight the challenges the U.S. faces in catching up within this competitive landscape.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
