The main export route for copper from the Democratic Republic of Congo has reopened after heavy rains damaged a bridge in northern Zambia. The road through Zambia, which serves as Congo's primary copper export corridor, resumed operations following the completion of a temporary detour. The Road Development Agency announced the reopening late Tuesday.

Heavy rainfall at the weekend washed away a section of the critical transport link, cutting off the supply chain for the world's second-largest copper producer. The temporary bypass allows trucks to resume transporting copper concentrate from Congo's mines to international markets. The closure had threatened to disrupt copper shipments from major mines in the Katanga region.

The reopening prevents potential supply disruptions that could have affected global copper prices and mining operations. Copper exports through this Zambian corridor are vital to Congo's mining industry, which accounts for a significant portion of the country's economy. The quick repair work minimizes the financial impact on mining companies and maintains the flow of copper to smelters and refineries.