RDC: falling demand weighs on Congolese cobalt prices
Cobalt hydroxide prices from the DRC have fallen by nearly 27% despite continued export quotas. The decline is attributed to weak downstream demand, including from the electric vehicle battery sector where LFP technology is gaining market share, and lower consumer electronics demand. Trade flows have partially recovered since January, with quotas now being exported more easily and regularly to China.
Why it matters: This relates to the theme of commodity markets and supply chains, as the DRC's cobalt export restrictions and price dynamics affect global battery material supply.