Adoption of a mining code

The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo signed, on 10 March 2018, a new mining code into law. The new law will increase royalties on copper from 2% to 3.5%, on gold from 2.5% to 3.5% and could potentially increase royalties on cobalt from 2% to 10%, if deemed a "strategic substance". Additionally, a new 50% tax-rate on so-called 'super profits', defined as income realized when commodity prices rise 25% above levels in the project's bankable feasibility study, will be introduced. Other key changes include a provision that doubles the state's free share in mining projects to 10% and a reduction on the period during which contract stability is guaranteed down to five years, from 10 years stipulated in the current mining law.

• Type:

  • Entry and establishment (Ownership and control)
  • Treatment and operation (Corporate taxation)
  • Treatment and operation (Other)

• Industry:

  • Primary (Mining and quarrying)

• Sources:

  • Mining Review, New DRC mining code will not alter positive outlook, https://www.miningreview.com/new-drc-mining-law-will-not-alter-positive-outlook/, 13 Mar 2018
  • BBC, DR Congo signs new mining law despite companies' opposition, http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-43355678, 10 Mar 2018