The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has confirmed it will move forward with its new cobalt export quota system, with possible revisions only under long-term review, Mining Minister Louis Watum Kabamba announced.
Speaking at a Cobalt Institute seminar in New York, Watum stressed that the government’s priority is to attract investments that promote local processing, boosting the value of cobalt exports rather than relying solely on raw shipments.
“We cannot let others decide for us. Whether there is a stockpile or not is secondary. The most important thing is securing a fairer price,” he said.
Congo, which supplied about 70% of the world’s cobalt in 2024, introduced the quota system to replace an earlier export ban imposed in February. Starting October 16, miners will be allowed to export a maximum of 18,125 tons of cobalt through the end of 2025, followed by annual limits of 96,600 tons for both 2026 and 2027.
The new framework has drawn mixed reactions. Glencore, the world’s second-largest cobalt producer, has expressed support, while China’s CMOC — the leading global supplier — has opposed the policy, citing restrictions below its production capacity.
“We will not be controlled by China or by anyone else. A country that supplies 70% of the world’s cobalt must have a say in determining its price,” Watum said, underscoring the DRC’s push to influence global cobalt markets.
While the government has left the door open to future adjustments, no timeline has been provided. Watum also reaffirmed that concessions will continue to be reclaimed from companies that fail to advance their mining projects.
