DR Congo Courts U.S. With $24 Trillion Mineral Offer

President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has offered U.S. companies access to eastern Congo’s vast mineral reserves – mostly untapped and valued at an estimated $24 trillion.

The proposal followed a meeting between President Tshisekedi, U.S. President Donald Trump, and U.S. lawmakers, during which several agreements were reportedly reached. In exchange, the United States has agreed to assist Congo in combating rebels and developing critical infrastructure in the region, where M23 rebels captured major towns last year.

The move comes as the Trump administration seeks to establish a minerals trading bloc with allied countries, partly to counter China’s dominant position in critical minerals, which are essential for everything from fighter jets to smartphones.

China currently accounts for nearly 70% of global rare earth mining and controls roughly 90% of rare earth processing. It is also the most active player in Congo’s mineral sector.

Meanwhile, the proposed deal has faced growing criticism, with various groups and observers questioning the implications of granting U.S. companies such extensive access to Congo’s mineral wealth.