D.R. Congo Prepares CMOC’s First Cobalt Shipment Under New Quota Rules

The Democratic Republic of Congo is moving closer to restarting cobalt exports under its newly introduced quota system, as authorities begin collecting samples for CMOC’s first approved shipment. This development represents a critical step after several months of export disruptions that unsettled global markets. While officials expect the shipment to proceed soon, industry sources indicate that logistical and regulatory factors could delay the actual export into early 2026.

Congo dominates the global cobalt market, accounting for more than 70 percent of mined supply, with output estimated at around 280,000 tonnes this year. The recent export ban, imposed to manage oversupply and stabilize domestic revenues, significantly tightened availability on international markets and pushed cobalt prices higher. This disruption was particularly felt by manufacturers of electric vehicle batteries, which rely heavily on Congolese cobalt for cathode materials. The resumption of exports under a controlled framework is therefore closely watched by traders, battery producers, and mining companies alike.

The quota system, officially launched on October 16, introduces firm limits on cobalt exports to balance market stability with state oversight. For the fourth quarter, total exports are capped at 18,125 tonnes, while annual exports will be limited to 96,600 tonnes starting in 2026. The largest allocations were granted to CMOC and Glencore, the two dominant producers operating in the country. CMOC received a Q4 quota of 6,650 tonnes, while Glencore was allocated 3,925 tonnes, reflecting their production scale and strategic importance to the sector.

At the operational level, CMOC’s Tenke Fungurume Mining operation has already begun sampling procedures, a mandatory step before shipment approval. Sampling results are expected within days, after which loading can technically commence. However, new regulatory requirements, including advance royalty payments and the issuance of compliance certificates, may slow the process. As a result, there is a growing possibility that the shipment will be rolled over into January and counted under the 2025 quota instead.

Under the revised framework, both CMOC and Glencore are required to pay a 10 percent royalty on cobalt exports, reinforcing the government’s aim to capture greater value from its mineral wealth. Discussions between the Chamber of Mines and the mining ministry are ongoing, although progress has so far been limited. Mining companies continue to express concerns about administrative bottlenecks and the cumulative impact of stricter controls on supply chains.

Looking ahead, these developments are likely to have lasting implications for Africa’s mining economy, particularly in Congo. While tighter export controls could enhance state revenues and improve sector governance, delays and uncertainty risk undermining investor confidence and disrupting global battery supply chains. For Congo, striking the right balance between regulation and competitiveness will be essential to maintaining its central role in the energy transition while ensuring sustainable economic benefits from its vast mineral resources.

Mini-Glossary

• Cobalt quota system: A government-imposed limit on the amount of cobalt that can be exported within a specific period.
• Sampling: The process of testing mineral quality and composition before export approval.
• Electric vehicle batteries: Rechargeable batteries used to power electric cars, which commonly require cobalt for stability and performance.
• Royalty: A payment made to the government based on the value or volume of minerals extracted or exported.
• Compliance certificate: An official document confirming that regulatory and fiscal requirements have been met.

Editor: Vural Burç ÇAKIR