Local miners threatening to shutdown if acid exports to DRC continue amid excessive local shortage
Local miners in Zambia are threatening to shut down operations if acid exports to the Democratic Republic of Congo continue amid a severe local shortage. United Miners Union of Zambia President Yosam Nyirongo said small and medium-scale mining companies are struggling to secure a consistent supply of acid, a vital input for copper ore processing. He urged the government to prioritize domestic needs and reconsider the export policy, also calling for reforms to remove middlemen who inflate prices.
Why it matters: This relates to the theme of supply-chain vulnerabilities, as the acid shortage and export policy threaten the viability of small and medium mining firms in Zambia.