The Democratic Republic of Congo will supply tin to the United States under a new agreement that could strengthen Washington’s access to critical minerals. Alphamin Resources, an Emirati-controlled mining company that operates in DR Congo, has signed a two-year supply agreement with US metals firm Nathan Trotter to deliver up to 3,600 metric tons of tin annually from its Bisie mine in eastern DR Congo. The shipments will represent nearly 20% of the mine’s annual output and supply a smelting facility in Virginia that is geared towards reviving US tin production. Backed by the Pentagon, the facility is expected to begin operations in 2027 and will produce tin used in radar systems and other military electronics.