Zambia border closure imperils Congo’s copper exports

Significance

Almost all DRC’s copper and cobalt exports, representing some 40% of GDP, are shipped via Zambia and the border closure therefore represented a major escalation of a minor crisis. Although Zambia quickly reopened the border, its readiness to use such tactics suggests further disruptions are also a risk.

Impacts

• The wider Southern African Development Community (SADC) will also face persistent problems in implementing free trade among its members.
• Disputes between the DRC and its other eastern neighbours will likely further encourage Kinshasa to seek a swift settlement with Lusaka.
• For now, there are no other viable export routes for copper and cobalt from DRC except through Zambia.