DRC unveils first-ever gold refinery with 500–600kg monthly output as it boosts local processing.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially inaugurated its first gold refinery, marking a major step toward strengthening local mineral processing and capturing more value from the country’s vast natural resources. The new facility, known as DRC Gold Refinery S.A., was launched in the city of Kalemie in Tanganyika Province.

The refinery is expected to process between 500 and 600 kilograms of gold every month, transforming raw gold into high-purity bullion bars ready for export or trade on international markets.

A milestone for Congo’s mining sector

The launch of the refinery represents a historic milestone for the mineral-rich country, which has long exported large volumes of unprocessed minerals. By refining gold domestically, authorities aim to keep more economic value within the country and strengthen oversight of the gold trade.

Officials say the refinery covers the entire gold value chain, from purchasing raw gold to refining and producing finished bullion bars. The project was developed through a partnership between the state-owned DRC Gold Trading S.A. and mining firm Lunga Mining.

Tackling smuggling and improving transparency

For years, Congo’s gold sector has been plagued by illegal mining and smuggling, particularly from artisanal and small-scale mining operations. A significant amount of gold has historically left the country through informal channels, depriving the government of tax revenue and weakening regulatory oversight.

Authorities believe the new refinery will help formalize the sector, ensuring that gold mined in the country is processed locally and traded through official systems. This is expected to improve transparency, increase government income, and provide better pricing and working conditions for artisanal miners.

Producing internationally recognized bullion

The refinery will produce 99.9% pure gold bars, which meet global bullion standards. By achieving internationally recognized purity levels, the DRC hopes to expand its participation in the global gold market and attract more investment into its mining sector.

Part of a broader strategy

The project is part of the Congolese government’s broader plan to increase domestic value addition in the mining industry. Rather than exporting raw minerals, the country aims to develop local processing industries that create jobs and boost economic growth.

The move also aligns with a wider trend across Africa, where several countries are investing in refining capacity to capture more revenue from their mineral wealth.

Looking ahead

With the refinery now operational, the DRC expects to strengthen control over its gold supply chain while boosting exports of refined bullion. If successful, the facility could pave the way for additional processing plants and greater industrialization within the country’s mining sector.

In a nation endowed with vast mineral resources—including gold, copper, cobalt, and diamonds—the new refinery signals a shift toward greater local beneficiation and economic self-reliance.

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