Wedoany.com Report on Feb 13th, China's Zijin Mining and the Congolese state mining company Cominiere have confirmed that the Manono lithium project in the Democratic Republic of Congo will commence its first lithium production in June, marking a significant step forward in the development of critical minerals in the region. The updated timeline indicates that initial production is planned to begin this month, followed swiftly by the export phase, ahead of the original guidance of the first quarter of 2026.

The Manono project is considered one of the world's largest undeveloped hard-rock lithium deposits. Against the backdrop of growing demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, this lithium resource holds significant importance for the battery metal supply chain. The involvement of China's Zijin Mining helps promote the development and utilization of Africa's critical minerals, providing support for related industries.

The Manono lithium project is still under international arbitration proceedings. Previously, in 2023, the Congolese government terminated the mining license of Australian company AVZ Minerals due to development progress issues, subsequently establishing new cooperation with Zijin Mining and Cominiere. This development highlights the global competition for critical minerals like lithium and the role of Chinese enterprises in Africa's resource development.