The China in Africa Podcast Why the U.S.-DRC Mining Deal is Bad News For China
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Dec 6, 2025 Christian Géraud, an Africa editor and analyst specializing in extractive industries, shares insightful analysis on the newly inked U.S.-DRC mining deal. He explains how this agreement could significantly restrict Chinese mining firms' expansions in the DRC, potentially setting a precedent for similar moves across Africa. Géraud also discusses security guarantees for the DRC and the implications of this neocolonial dynamic, while highlighting the evolving landscape of cobalt in electric vehicles and the strategic interests of the U.S. and other nations in the region.
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US Deal Locks In Mining Access
- The US-DRC critical minerals pact creates a US-only fiscal and policy framework that lists unlicensed projects for priority US engagement.
- Christian Géraud says this will sharply limit new Chinese greenfield mining investments in the DRC.
Sovereignty Concessions For Security Backing
- Félix Tshisekedi traded mineral access and legal changes for US political and regime support.
- Géraud argues the DRC committed to modifying laws and even its constitution to fit the deal.
Leverage Commercial Stakes For Security
- Use US commercial involvement as a deterrent to rebel expansion rather than expecting direct troop deployments.
- Christian Géraud cites Alphamin's lobbying and US pressure on Rwanda as precedent for such security leverage.