【有色】刚果（金）钴出口配额落地，钴价有望进入上行周期——钴行业动态点评（王招华/方驭涛）

Core Viewpoint - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has extended its cobalt export ban until October 15, 2025, transitioning to a quota system thereafter, which is expected to impact global cobalt supply and prices significantly [4][6]. Group 1: Cobalt Export Regulations - The DRC's cobalt export ban will now be followed by a quota system starting October 16, 2025, allowing exports of 3,625 tons in October, increasing to 7,250 tons in November and December, and a total of 96,600 tons from 2026 to 2027 [4]. - Export quotas will be allocated based on historical export volumes of each company [4]. Group 2: Global Cobalt Production and Market Impact - In 2024, the DRC is projected to account for 76.3% of global cobalt production, with an estimated output of 220,000 tons, while Indonesia and Russia will contribute significantly less at 28,000 tons and 8,700 tons, respectively [5]. - The DRC's previous export bans were a response to plummeting cobalt prices, which fell to historical lows earlier in 2025, indicating a potential for price recovery due to supply constraints [6]. Group 3: Supply-Demand Dynamics - The DRC's export suspension from February 22 to October 15, 2025, is expected to reduce global cobalt supply by approximately 141,600 tons, leading to a projected annual shortfall of 30,000 tons from 2026 to 2027 if demand remains stable [7]. - China's cobalt raw material imports saw a dramatic decline in August 2025, with a 90% year-on-year drop, indicating a tightening supply situation that may continue as inventory levels decrease [8][9].