Why does MMG consider its cobalt production in the DRC 'economically unviable' under Congo's new quota system?

MMG considers its cobalt production 'economically unviable' because the DRC's cobalt export quota—calculated on a pro-rata basis according to exports in the three years to end-2024—did not account for MMG's economic and ESG contributions to the country, resulting in a disappointing allocation that undermines the viability of its Kinsevere operations; as a result, the cobalt plant remains on care and maintenance, with exports limited to on-site inventories.

What is the stated objective of Congo's cobalt export quotas, and how does the government justify their implementation?

The stated objective of Congo's cobalt export quotas is to guarantee a fair market, generate more local processing and employment—not higher prices—as explained by Patrick Luabeya, head of Congo’s Authority for the Regulation and Control of Strategic Mineral Substances’ Markets; the quotas were first introduced in February 2025 via an export ban to reduce glut and capture more value, then replaced in October with strict, past-export-based allocations.

China’s MMG Bemoans Congo Cobalt Curbs That Threaten Investment

May 15, 2026

China’s MMG Ltd. criticized Democratic Republic of Congo’s cobalt export quotas, calling them economically unviable and threatening future investments. Restrictions boosted prices by 160%, yet miners struggle with pro-rata allocations based on historical output.

bloomberg

2026-05-15

China’s MMG Bemoans Congo Cobalt Curbs That Threaten Investment

China’s MMG Bemoans Congo Cobalt Curbs That Threaten Investment

FAQ