Cobalt Prices Rise as DRC Strengthens Control Over Strategic Mineral
DRC Cobalt Prices Increase to USD 48,472/ton as Government Tightens Export Rules and Boosts Market Influence
Cobalt, one of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s most important mineral exports, is showing renewed momentum on international markets.
According to projections from the National Market Commission of the Ministry of Foreign Trade, the metal is expected to trade at USD 48,472 per ton during the week of December 8–13, 2025, up from USD 47,886 the previous week—an increase of USD 586.
This upward trend is driven by strong global demand, particularly from the electric battery, renewable energy, and electronics sectors. As the world’s leading producer of cobalt, the DRC remains a central player in this highly strategic market.
The mining industry is also a major pillar of the national economy, contributing significantly to state revenue, exports, and the balance of trade.
Recent measures taken by the Congolese Government have also influenced price dynamics. In his State of the Nation address to Parliament on December 8, 2025, President Félix Tshisekedi highlighted the introduction of export quotas for cobalt from artisanal mining.
According to the Head of State, these measures are designed to better regulate international supply, fight against undervaluation of the mineral, and strengthen the country’s negotiating power.
They have helped reposition the DRC in the global cobalt market and should enable the state to retain a larger share of the value created by this strategic resource.
Authorities say these policies are also intended to promote local processing, improve traceability of artisanal cobalt, and reinforce governance across the mining supply chain.
More broadly, most Congolese mineral exports are currently benefiting from favorable price trends. If this upward momentum continues, it could provide the country with additional budget space at a time when public investment and infrastructure needs are growing.
