Core Viewpoint - The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has lifted its cobalt export ban and shifted to a quota system, allowing for significant exports in the coming years, which is expected to impact the global cobalt supply chain and market dynamics [1][5]. Group 1: Policy Changes and Market Impact - The DRC will allow over 18,000 tons of cobalt exports in 2023, with annual quotas of 96,600 tons for 2026 and 2027, distributed based on companies' historical export volumes [1]. - Following the announcement, cobalt-related stocks in China's A-share market saw significant increases, indicating a positive market reaction [1]. - The shift from a complete export ban to a quota system suggests a more refined approach to managing cobalt resources in the DRC [5]. Group 2: Supply and Demand Dynamics - The cobalt market is currently facing a raw material shortage, with high concentration in spot inventories, leading to price increases primarily driven by traders and companies holding physical stocks [2]. - The battery sector, which consumes over 70% of cobalt, is experiencing pressure due to inventory levels, causing battery manufacturers to reduce procurement from upstream suppliers [2]. - The DRC's export policy change is expected to lead to a supply shortage in the global cobalt market from 2025 to 2027, with projected shortfalls of 122,000 tons, 88,000 tons, and 97,000 tons respectively [8]. Group 3: Price Trends and Market Reactions - Domestic cobalt prices in China have been reported between 270,000 to 290,000 yuan per ton, reflecting an upward trend in the market [3]. - The overall cobalt market is experiencing reduced supply and rising prices, with international demand also increasing, contributing to a bullish outlook for cobalt prices [3]. - Companies in the cobalt sector are currently assessing the new quota system and its implications for their operations, with some indicating that they have sufficient inventory to manage potential supply disruptions [10][11].