Congo Sets April 30 Deadline for Cobalt Export Quotas Usage
Congo mandates cobalt miners to utilize unfulfilled 2025 export quotas by April 30, 2026, or risk forfeiture. This regulation aims to stabilize supply and prices in the cobalt market, where the country produces about 70% of the global supply.
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The Democratic Republic of Congo's mining regulator, ARECOMS, requires miners to fully utilize their fourth-quarter 2025 cobalt export quotas by April 30, 2026, or forfeit any unfulfilled amounts, which will be moved to a strategic reserve. Quotas for the first and second quarters of 2026 remain valid and can be shipped until June 30, 2026.
The new measures will take effect on March 31, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to manage cobalt supply after a previous export ban aimed at correcting market oversupply. Industry reactions vary, with some producers expressing confidence in meeting the deadline, while others cite logistical challenges under the new quota system. The directive reflects the government's strategy to stabilize cobalt prices and enhance oversight of mineral exports.
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