The Democratic Republic of Congo has pledged to uphold cobalt export quotas for 2025 despite months of delays under new rules, its mining regulator said, as a pilot shipment is set to move “within days.”
The DRC, the world’s top cobalt supplier with over 70% of global output, introduced quotas in October following a months-long export ban aimed at curbing oversupply and stabilizing prices.
Exports stalled as companies awaited clarity on compliance. Congo’s Chamber of Mines said in a letter to the mines ministry that it had sought talks with regulator ARECOMS over delays and concerns regarding its 10% strategic stock, but has yet to receive a response, according to Reuters.
Don’t Miss This:
Congo’s Cobalt Producers Still Await Export Approvals Under New Quota System, Sources Say
Glencore is among the miners cleared to test the system, ARECOMS told Reuters Thursday, confirming the first cargo will move “in the coming days” once a 10% royalty is paid.
The regulator did not disclose volumes or timing for the shipment, adding, “It was essential to ensure the robustness of controls before resuming exports.
We can guarantee that the quotas allocated to companies by ARECOMS will be respected.”
The quota system sets 18,125 metric tons for the fourth quarter and caps annual exports at 96,600 tons from 2026.
China’s CMOC and Glencore received the largest shares, 6,650 tons and 3,925 tons respectively, while ARECOMS retained 10% for a strategic reserve. Glencore declined to comment.
Kinshasa-based analyst Jean Pierre Okenda said uncertainty around ARECOMS’ 10% strategic stock was concerning.
“We see no direct link between creating a 10% stock and market needs,” he said, warning of risks if transparency and accountability are lacking.
Don’t Miss This:
Glencore To Send First Cobalt Cargo Under Congo’s New Quota System
Image Credit:
