Kemcore, a mining chemicals importer, plans to construct processing facilities in Botswana and Angola by mid-2026, aiming to reduce African miners' dependence on imports from China and the Middle East amid geopolitical disruptions. This move targets the $500 million African metals processing chemicals market, offering local supply for copper and cobalt producers.
Supply-chain impact
The Botswana plant, expected operational by mid-2026, will produce sodium metabisulphite (SMBS), sodium hydrosulphide, and flotation collectors like xanthates. Output targets 57,500 tons annually from 2027, scaling to 250,000 tons by 2032—roughly 25% of Africa's demand. This local production could stabilize supply chains for Zambian and DRC copper and cobalt miners, currently reliant on imported sulphuric acid and SMBS.
What buyers should watch
Sulphuric acid prices at Tanzania's Dar es Salaam port have already risen to a premium after Iran conflict disrupted sulphur shipments. African miners should monitor geopolitical risks in China and the Middle East, as Kemcore's facilities may offer a more stable, cost-effective alternative. The Angola facility, linked to a rare earths project, will produce 88,000 tons of sulphuric acid and 50,000 tons of caustic lye annually, further diversifying supply.
Compliance and logistics signals
Total project costs are $103 million, with funding sourced largely from within Africa. CEO Godfrey Johnson declined to name investors but noted early-stage interest from US government agencies, though no commitments were made. Washington's intent to support transparent investment in Africa's mining sector, including local processing, aligns with this project, potentially easing regulatory hurdles for buyers.
China sourcing context
Kemcore's move directly challenges the dominance of Chinese and Middle Eastern suppliers in Africa's mining chemicals market. By producing locally, the company aims to materially lower costs for miners, reducing exposure to import disruptions. This trend may prompt other importers to reassess their supply chains, especially for critical inputs like sulphuric acid and SMBS.
Source: Read the original report | Published: April 10, 2026