Core Points - The Congolese government has announced the implementation details of cobalt export quotas to regulate export order and promote local value addition of strategic minerals [1] Group 1: Export Quota and Distribution Mechanism - The Strategic Mineral Market Regulatory Bureau has established a basic export quota distribution plan for cobalt in the fourth quarter of 2025, approving 3,625 tons for October, 7,250 tons for November, and 7,250 tons for December [2] - Quotas will be allocated based on each company's export volume from 2022 to 2024 [2] Group 2: Strict Access and Enforcement Standards - Companies with less than 100 tons of cobalt export volume in 2024, without their own refining facilities, or with depleted cobalt reserves are excluded from the quotas [3] - Quotas cannot be transferred or deferred, and any unused portions will be reclaimed starting January 2026 [3] - The Bureau has the authority to revoke quotas from companies that violate regulations, particularly those handling unauthorized artisanal mineral sources or privately transferring quotas [3] Group 3: Establishment of National Strategic Quota - Starting in 2026, a national strategic quota will be established to support industrial and strategic projects of national significance, aimed at extending the cobalt industry chain in Congo [4] - This initiative is intended to support domestic cobalt refining, conversion, and downstream manufacturing, contributing to the development of a local value chain [4] Group 4: Implementation and Supervision - All export operations must occur at designated approved border ports [5] - Companies applying for export quotas must provide environmental and tax compliance certificates, export data from the past three years, and relevant information certified by mining management authorities [5] Group 5: Approved Companies and Implications - A list of 21 companies approved for cobalt export by the end of 2025 has been released, indicating a significant step by the Congolese government in strengthening cobalt resource governance, optimizing export order, and promoting industrial upgrades [6]