Tantalite prices reached their highest level in two years in Europe last week, under the effect of the disruption of the supply linked to tensions in the Democratic Republic of Congo, the world’s leading world producer used in electronic and aerospace industries.
Tantalitis is negotiated between $ 100 and $ 105 per book on the European Spot market, its highest level since April 2023 and an increase of 25 % since the start of the troubles in January.
Tantalitis contains tantalum, a metal used in capacitors, medical devices and components of nuclear reactors.
“The conflict that affects the east of the DRC makes it difficult to supply certified tantalty,” said a small metal merchant.
“You can place an order in a province that is not affected by the conflict, but the rebels can take control of the region within two weeks of signing the contract. »»
The DRC has experienced an increase in violence since the rebels of the M23, supported by Rwanda, launched a major offensive.
This is why many Western foundries are not supplied in tantalum in the DRC and Rwanda, said Sian Morris, senior analyst for critical minerals at Argus, an information provider.
“They are rather obtaining themselves in Burundi, Mozambique and Ethiopia. However, the supply of these countries is much lower, which forces them to pay much higher prices. »»
According to the United States Geological Survey, the Congo and Rwanda represented more than 58 % of the world’s world production in 2024, or 1,230 metric tonnes.
“There is no producer capable of rapidly increasing its production of tantalty, with the exception of craft exploitation, which raises questions in terms of ESG (environment, social and governance) and traceability,” said Piyush Goel, consultant at Cru Group.
The rich mineral resources of the Congo drew the attention of the United States under the presidency of Donald Trump.
His main advisor for Africa said on Monday that Congo and Rwanda had submitted a peace proposal project as part of a process to end the fights in eastern Congo and attract billions of dollars in Western investments.
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