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Congo Moves Lithium Into Strategic Minerals Category, Raising Royalty Rates

The Democratic Republic of Congo has classified lithium as a strategic mineral, a designation that will substantially increase royalty obligations for mining operators in the country. The reclassification places lithium in a higher tax bracket, potentially tripling the royalty payments miners must remit to the government. The move reflects Congo's effort to capture greater revenue from its mineral wealth as global demand for battery materials remains elevated. Lithium producers operating in Congo face immediate compliance requirements under the new framework. The decision comes as Congo seeks to maximize returns from critical minerals amid intensifying international competition for battery supply chains. Industry participants are assessing the financial impact of the elevated royalty structure on project economics and investment decisions across Congo's mining sector.