DRC Cobalt Prices Stall at $52,100 per Ton as Global Demand Outlook Remains Uncertain
Cobalt Prices Stabilize After Rapid December Surge Amid Market Uncertainty
After a period of rapid growth through December 22, 2025, cobalt prices have stabilized on the international market. Having climbed from USD 50,958 to over USD 52,000 per ton in just a few weeks, the price of this strategic mineral—of which the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is the world’s leading producer—has now plateaued.
Data for January 5–10, 2026, indicate cobalt export prices at USD 52,107 per ton, slightly below the previous week’s USD 52,111, reflecting a marginal decline.
This stagnation follows the strong momentum observed last December, driven largely by industrial demand for the metal used in batteries and electronics.
Analysts suggest that the early-2026 slowdown signals a “wait-and-see” phase as global inventories adjust and short-term demand remains uncertain.
The price stabilization of cobalt contrasts with trends in other DRC-exported minerals. Copper continued to rise, from USD 11,928 to USD 12,366.60 per ton, while gold increased from USD 142.78 to USD 143.86 per gram.
Other minerals, including tantalum, germanium, nickel, silver, tungsten concentrate, and aluminium ingots, also recorded gains during the same period.
Conversely, tin and tin concentrate (cassiterite) have followed a downward trend, with tin falling from USD 43,070 to USD 42,708.75 per ton, and cassiterite declining from USD 13,739.33 to USD 13,624.09 per ton, mirroring cobalt’s near-stability.
Given the DRC’s central role in global cobalt supply, market participants and government authorities continue to monitor price developments closely, recognizing cobalt’s critical impact on the electronics industry and its importance as a source of national revenue.
