China dominates cobalt production in the Democratic Republic of Congo

China is currently the largest producer of cobalt, following its acquisition of two major mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) from American company Freeport-McMoRan. This has intensified competition between the US and China for critical minerals. Political instability in eastern DRC, marked by recent militant activity, complicates the situation. The US has imposed sanctions on a Rwandan official linked to the conflict and is exploring potential agreements with the DRC for access to minerals in exchange for military support. The Trump administration's approach may shift US strategy in the DRC, but experts note that Chinese investments are deeply entrenched. The US faces challenges in gaining a foothold in the region, as it currently lacks mining operations there.