The Strategic Minerals Market Regulatory and Control Authority (ARECOMS) has announced a three-month extension of the temporary suspension on cobalt exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The renewed measure, effective from June 21, 2025, was made public via a press release issued on Saturday, June 21.
According to the ARECOMS Board of Directors, led by Patrick Mpoyi Luabeya, the decision stems from continued oversupply in the market.
The suspension applies to all cobalt produced across the country—whether sourced from industrial, semi-industrial, artisanal, or small-scale mining operations.
This extension builds on Decision No. 001/ARECOMS/2025, initially adopted on February 22, 2025. That original measure aimed to regulate international cobalt supply, stabilize global prices, and incentivize local processing of the mineral.
The DRC holds more than 70% of the world’s known cobalt reserves, making its export policy crucial to the global supply chain.
“In line with Decision No. 001/ARECOMS/2025 of February 22, 2025, which temporarily suspended cobalt exports from the Democratic Republic of Congo, mining sector stakeholders are hereby informed that, on June 21, 2025, ARECOMS’ Board of Directors adopted new regulatory measures,” the statement reads.
“These include extending the export suspension for an additional three months due to persistently high stock levels.”
ARECOMS indicated it would reassess the situation before the new suspension period ends to determine whether to lift, prolong, or adjust the measure.
Back in March 2025, during the 36th Council of Ministers meeting, President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi called for a comprehensive evaluation of the policy’s impact before deciding on its continuation.
The President later welcomed the suspension’s positive economic effects. “Cobalt prices have surged by over 50% since the export ban was implemented, rising from $21,150 to $33,300 per tonne,” government spokespersons reported.
“This is the highest level seen since May 2023 and confirms the effectiveness of the government’s strategy, offering a promising outlook for increased state revenue from cobalt mining.”
However, the decision is already being felt globally. The sharp price hike is straining the technology sector, which heavily depends on cobalt for battery and electronic component manufacturing.
Several international organizations have reported looming supply shortages due to the absence of Congolese cobalt on the market.
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