The Democratic Republic of Congo is tightening state control over geological data linked to billions of dollars in mining exploration, as the country seeks greater influence over the development of its vast mineral resources.

Under a 180-million-dollar contract with Spanish company Xcalibur, the Congolese government is mapping the country and digitising historical geological records to create a national database of critical mineral resources.

The government plans to restrict access to the data through a tiered, fee-based system, describing geological information as strategic national infrastructure.

Officials say the move could strengthen Kinshasa's position in negotiations with mining companies and attract more investment by reducing the risks involved in mineral exploration.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is a major producer of cobalt and copper, with significant deposits of lithium and tantalum.