The Democratic Republic of Congo has started collecting quality samples ahead of the first cobalt shipment by Chinese mining company CMOC under the country’s newly introduced export quota system, according to two Congolese government sources cited by Reuters.
The sampling process is a mandatory step before shipments can be approved and is expected to be completed within days, although the actual export may take place later than initially anticipated.
Background: Congo’s Role in the Cobalt Market
Congo dominates the global cobalt market, accounting for more than 70% of worldwide mined supply. Analysts estimate global cobalt production at about 280,000 metric tons this year. The metal is a critical input for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.
Recent supply constraints and regulatory changes in Congo have pushed cobalt prices higher and tightened availability, raising concerns among battery makers and automakers worldwide.
The New Export Quota System
Congo launched its new cobalt quota regime on October 16 as part of efforts to manage supply and stabilise prices. Under the system:
• Exports for the fourth quarter are capped at 18,125 metric tons
• Annual cobalt exports will be limited to 96,600 metric tons starting in 2026
• Exporters must pay a 10% royalty in advance
• Shipments require a compliance certificate before leaving the country
The government says the framework is designed to bring more control and transparency to the cobalt trade.
CMOC and Glencore Lead Allocations
CMOC and Switzerland-based Glencore, the world’s two largest cobalt producers, received the biggest shares of the fourth-quarter quota:
• CMOC: 6,650 metric tons
• Glencore: 3,925 metric tons
Reuters previously reported that Glencore was expected to be the first company to ship cobalt under the new rules, using a small consignment to test the system.
Now, Congo has begun preparations for CMOC’s first shipment from its Tenke Fungurume Mining operation, although officials declined to disclose the shipment’s size or exact date.
Timeline Uncertain
A source at Tenke Fungurume Mining confirmed that sampling is under way but said the shipment is unlikely to depart before January. According to the source, the export would be relatively small and counted against CMOC’s 2025 quota rather than the current quarter.
One government official explained that sample analysis typically takes three to four days, after which loading can begin once all regulatory requirements are met.
CMOC spokesperson Vincent Zhou said the company has already put export arrangements in place in line with Congolese government procedures, without providing further details.
Industry Concerns Persist
Mining companies and industry groups have warned that the new system could slow exports and disrupt global battery supply chains. Congo’s mining lobby has called for urgent clarification on legal and operational requirements, citing concerns such as:
• The 48-hour deadline for royalty prepayments
• Additional compliance documentation
• Potential delays at ports and border points
Representatives from Congo’s Chamber of Mines and the mining ministry met in Kinshasa late last week to address these issues, according to attendees. However, sources said the talks resulted in limited progress.
As demand for electric vehicles accelerates worldwide, any disruption to cobalt supply from Congo has global implications. The rollout of Congo’s quota system is being closely watched by miners, manufacturers, and governments, with the success or failure of early shipments likely to shape how the rules are implemented going forward.
Source: Africa Publicity
