DRC mining investment checklist

A DRC mining investment — whether in listed equities or a direct project stake — requires due diligence across permit, fiscal, environmental, community, and operational dimensions. This checklist covers the primary verification items for a project-level assessment. It is not a substitute for legal or financial advice.

Permit status

Is the permit (PR or PE) current and in good standing per CAMI records? Request a notarised CAMI extract to confirm.

Has the permit been transferred to the current holder with CAMI approval? Transfers without CAMI approval are void under the 2018 Mining Code.

What is the permit expiry date? Is renewal within the project horizon? What are the renewal conditions?

Are there any CTCPM disputes, legal challenges, or third-party claims on the permit area?

Fiscal terms

What royalty rate applies to each mineral produced? Are any products designated strategic under the 2018 Code?

What is the super-profits tax threshold in the feasibility study? How was the reference commodity price set, and is it realistic relative to current market levels?

Does the project benefit from any customs exemptions? If so, what is their legal basis and duration?

What is the state equity position? Is the 10 percent free-carried interest the only state stake, or are there additional negotiated interests?

Environmental and community

Has the environmental certificate been obtained from the Ministry of the Environment? If not, what is the timeline and what risks exist in the ESIA process?

Is the environmental rehabilitation fund established and funded at the correct percentage?

Is the PDC (Plan de Développement Communautaire) in place and funded? Is the Cahier des Charges signed with the relevant ETD and provincial government?

Operational

What is the power supply arrangement? Is the project dependent on SNEL or does it have captive generation?

What logistics route does the project use, and what is the sensitivity to route disruptions (port congestion, road conditions, border delays)?

What is the workforce structure? What local content and employment obligations apply under the Cahier des Charges?

Responsible sourcing

If the project involves third-party mineral purchases (e.g., cobalt from adjacent ASM), what due-diligence systems are in place? Are those systems aligned to OECD and RMI standards?