By: Creamer media

The world’s top cobalt supplier, accounting for over 70% of output, introduced quotas in October after a months-long export ban to curb oversupply and stabilise prices. Exports, however, stalled as companies waited for clarity on compliance.

Congo’s Chamber of Mines said in a letter to the mines ministry it had sought talks with regulator ARECOMS to address delays and concerns over its 10% strategic stock, but has yet to receive a response.

Glencore is among miners cleared to test the system, ARECOMS told Reuters Thursday, confirming that first cargo will move “in the coming days” once a 10% royalty is paid.

ARECOMS did not disclose volumes or timing for the first cargo.

“It was essential to ensure the robustness of controls before resuming exports,” the regulator said in response to questions.

"We can guarantee that the quotas allocated to companies by ARECOMS will be respected."

The quota system allocates 18,125 metric tons for the fourth quarter and will cap annual exports at 96,600 tons from 2026.

China's CMOC, and Glencore, the world’s top producers 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 the lack of clarity on ARECOMS’ 10% strategic stock was troubling.

“We see no direct link between creating a 10% stock and market needs,” he said, warning of risks if transparency and accountability are absent.