June 22, 2025 | Kinshasa, DR Congo – The Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) has officially extended its temporary ban on cobalt exports by three months, moving the expiration from June to September 21, 2025, according to a statement by the Strategic Mineral Substances Market Regulation and Control Authority (ARECOMS) .
Cobalt, a key component in electric vehicle batteries, has been oversupplied globally, with spot prices having plunged to a nine-year low near $10 per pound earlier this year. The initial four-month ban implemented in February succeeded in rallying prices moderately, yet an oversupply persists. ARECOMS concluded, “the decision has been taken to extend the temporary suspension due to the continued high level of stock on the market”.
The extension affects all forms of cobalt mining—industrial, semi-industrial, artisanal, and small-scale. ARECOMS said it will review the situation before the new deadline and may introduce additional restrictions, quotas, or lift the ban altogether.
Global market response was muted this time compared to the initial ban. Analysts note high inventories—particularly in China, where stockpiles amount to 8–10 months of global demand—have cushioned immediate price impacts. Still, cobalt prices surged almost 10% on the Wuxi exchange following the latest announcement.
The Congolese government is reportedly exploring a more controlled export regime based on quotas, which has received backing from major producers like Glencore, while China’s CMOC Group advocates lifting the ban. The potential shift toward a quota system is seen as a strategic move to better manage global supply and safeguard government revenues.
While DR Congo accounts for about 72–76% of global cobalt mining output, cobalt remains a by-product of copper production—limiting the nation’s ability to restrict output without impacting copper revenue. Experts suggest that DR Congo might instead require downstream processing investment, following Indonesia’s example, to increase added value rather than restricting raw material exports .
As the ban continuation signals an ongoing struggle between market control and economic interests, investors and manufacturers are keenly watching whether DR Congo will shift to quotas or pursue new partnerships—including suspected negotiations with the U.S.—to further develop its strategic minerals sector.