By: Dawan Africa

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which supplies 70–75% of the world's cobalt, is creating significant disruptions in global markets through new export restrictions and quotas. Following a four-month export ban in early 2025, the DRC implemented a quota system in October, limiting cobalt hydroxide exports to 18,125 tonnes for the remainder of 2025 and capping annual exports at 96,600 tonnes from 2026. Exporters must also prepay royalties within 48 hours and comply with joint sampling, sealing, and audit requirements.

These measures have driven up cobalt prices and introduced uncertainty into global electric vehicle (EV) supply chains. Major players like Glencore have declared force majeure on some deliveries, while CMOC Group called for lifting the ban, warning that policy unpredictability threatens investment and supply agreements. Analysts caution that the quota may create a supply gap, potentially slowing EV adoption and pushing battery manufacturers toward cobalt-free alternatives.

Beyond global impacts, the restrictions highlight Africa's broader challenge: balancing resource nationalism with stable, transparent governance. While the DRC aims to boost domestic value addition and revenue, the move risks spurring illegal mining and supply chain volatility. Experts urge greater regional cooperation, diversification of mineral sources, and investment in local processing to ensure Africa's mineral wealth drives sustainable industrialization and economic growth.