The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has announced a three-month extension of its ban on cobalt exports, effective immediately. The decision, confirmed by the Authority for the Regulation and Control of Strategic Mineral Substances’ Markets (ARECOMS), aims to address the continued high levels of cobalt stock in both domestic and international markets. The initial four-month suspension, which began in February 2025, was set to expire on June 22. ARECOMS stated that the extension is necessary to stabilize the market and manage oversupply.

Cobalt, a critical component in the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries and other electronic devices, has seen its prices fall to a nine-year low of $10 per pound earlier this year. The DRC, as the world’s largest cobalt producer, accounts for over 80% of global supply, making its policy decisions pivotal in shaping global cobalt markets.

ARECOMS has indicated that it will review the situation before the end of the three-month extension and may decide to modify, extend, or lift the export ban based on market developments. Additionally, the DRC government is considering implementing an export quota system to better manage cobalt shipments and stabilize prices. This proposal has garnered support from major industry players such as Glencore, the world’s second-largest cobalt producer, but faces opposition from CMOC Group, the top producer, which has lobbied for the ban to be lifted.

The extended export ban is expected to have significant implications for the global EV industry, potentially leading to increased cobalt prices and prompting manufacturers to explore alternative materials or adjust their supply chains. The DRC’s strategic decisions regarding cobalt exports will continue to influence the dynamics of the global battery materials market.