The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially announced the introduction of quotas on cobalt production and stockpiles accumulated during the four-month export suspension imposed in February 2025. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka disclosed the decision during the Council of Ministers meeting on March 14, 2025. 

According to meeting minutes, two types of quotas will be implemented: one for exports and another for local cobalt processing. However, details on volumes or enforcement mechanisms remain unclear, with officials instructed to act "swiftly and effectively."

The DRC is also “seeking collaboration with Indonesia, the world's second-largest cobalt producer with a 9.66% market share, to better control global supply and stabilize prices.” The DRC and Indonesia account for over 85% of global cobalt production, giving them significant leverage in shaping market dynamics.

Since the DRC paused its cobalt prices, prices have surged dramatically. Cobalt hydroxide recently hit $10.5 per pound, an 84% increase. However, experts warn that prices could plummet if exports resume without careful management, flooding the market with stockpiled supplies. The government claims these new measures aim to enforce the suspension effectively and prevent such a scenario.

The move has sparked controversy within the DRC. According to Africa Intelligence, a French media, the Fédération des Entreprises du Congo (FEC) opposes the pause, arguing it violates provisions of the Congolese Mining Code allowing operators to sell their products freely. On March 7, the FEC’s Chamber of Mines sent a letter to Mines Minister Kizito Kapinga Mulume proposing an ad hoc public-private commission to address issues stemming from the decision.

This article was initially published in French by Pierre Mukoko

Edited in English by Ola Schad Akinocho