Zhi Tong Cai Jing·2025-12-09 06:15Core Viewpoint - The new cobalt export regulations introduced by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the world's largest cobalt supplier, are causing widespread concern in the global mining and lithium battery industries due to increased uncertainty in an already strained supply chain [3]. Group 1: Regulatory Changes - The DRC has replaced its export ban with a quota system since October, which has introduced temporary royalty fees and complex processes, further complicating the cobalt supply chain [3]. - The core controversy revolves around the calculation details of the export royalty fee, specifically the 10% prepayment requirement based on sales value [3]. Group 2: Industry Reactions - Industry executives are confused about whether the 10% royalty fee will be deducted from the last export transaction amount before the February export ban, which significantly impacts companies' capital costs [3]. - Since the implementation of the quota system on October 16, companies have been required to prepay 10% of the sales value as a royalty fee, but the latest regulations lack clarity on the calculation basis, increasing companies' hesitance to act [3].