Global Cobalt Production Countries
Cobalt, a critical component in the rapidly expanding lithium-ion battery market, especially for electric vehicles (EVs) and portable electronics, sees its global supply heavily concentrated in a few key nations. While demand continues to rise, the market has recently experienced periods of oversupply, impacting prices and driving strategic shifts among producers.
Dominant Producers
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to be the undisputed leader in global cobalt mine production, accounting for the vast majority of the world's supply. Its rich mineral reserves, particularly in the "Copperbelt" region, give it a significant geological advantage. However, Indonesia has rapidly emerged as a major player, with its cobalt production largely tied to its burgeoning nickel industry.
Here's a breakdown of the top cobalt-producing countries based on 2023 data:
| Rank | Country | Production (metric tons) | % of World Production |
| 1 | Democratic Republic of Congo | 170,000 | 73.91% |
| 2 | Indonesia | 17,000 | 7.39% |
| 3 | Russia | 8,800 | 3.83% |
| 4 | Australia | 4,600 | 2.00% |
| 5 | Madagascar | 4,000 | 1.74% |
| 6 | Philippines | 3,800 | 1.65% |
| 7 | Cuba | 3,200 | 1.39% |
| 8 | New Caledonia | 3,000 | 1.30% |
| 9 | Papua New Guinea | 2,900 | 1.26% |
| 10 | Turkey | 2,800 | 1.22% |
| World Total | 230,000 | 100.00% |
Note: Production figures are estimates for 2023 and may vary slightly across different sources.
Key Dynamics and Trends
- DRC's Continued Dominance: The DRC's position as the leading producer is underpinned by massive reserves and large-scale mining operations, including significant mines like Kamoto, Kisanfu, Metalkol, and Tenke Fungurume. Companies like CMOC and Glencore play pivotal roles in the country's output. Despite its dominance, the DRC is actively seeking to diversify its investment partnerships beyond its strong ties with Chinese companies.
- Indonesia's Rapid Ascent: Indonesia's rise as the second-largest producer is a notable development, primarily driven by cobalt as a by-product of its expanding nickel industry, crucial for EV battery production. Projects such as the Weda Bay Project and initiatives by PT Halmahera Persada Lygend are key to this growth.
- By-product Production: A significant portion of global cobalt production, particularly outside the DRC, comes as a by-product of copper and nickel mining. This interdependency means that cobalt supply can be influenced by market dynamics in copper and nickel.
- Market Fluctuations: The cobalt market has experienced periods of oversupply in recent years, leading to price declines. This oversupply has been attributed to increased production, particularly from the DRC and Indonesia, and, at times, slower-than-expected growth in EV adoption in certain regions.
- Demand Drivers: The primary driver for cobalt demand is the electric vehicle (EV) sector, followed by portable electronics, superalloys, and other industrial applications. While efforts are being made to reduce cobalt intensity in some battery chemistries due to supply risks and price volatility, overall demand is still projected to increase significantly in the coming decade.
- Geopolitical Factors and Supply Chain Security: The concentration of cobalt supply in the DRC raises geopolitical concerns and emphasizes the need for secure and responsible cobalt value chains. Countries and companies are investing in diversification of sources and exploring recycling technologies to mitigate risks. Recent actions, such as the DRC's temporary export ban, highlight the sensitivity of the market to policy changes.
As the world continues its transition towards greener technologies, the importance of cobalt as a critical mineral will only grow, making the dynamics of its production and supply a crucial area of focus for industries globally.
The Democratic Republic of Congo Cobalt Production
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is undeniably the most crucial player in the global cobalt market. Possessing the world's largest cobalt reserves, the country consistently accounts for the overwhelming majority of global mine production, making it indispensable to the rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) battery and electronics industries.
In 2023, the DRC produced an estimated 170,000 metric tons of cobalt, representing approximately 73% of the world's total output. This dominance is largely due to its vast mineral wealth in the "Copperbelt" region, particularly in the Lualaba and Haut-Katanga provinces.
Major Cobalt Mines and Key Players
Cobalt in the DRC is primarily extracted as a by-product of copper mining, with large-scale industrial operations driving the bulk of the production. However, a significant, though challenging, artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector also contributes to the country's output.
Here's a look at some of the major cobalt mines and companies operating in the DRC:
| Mine Name | Ownership (Primary Stake) | Estimated Cobalt Production (2023, tonnes) | Key Features / Notes |
| Kisanfu Mine | CMOC Group (75%), CATL (25%), DRC Gov (5%) | 25,500 | Greenfield mine; CMOC overtook Glencore as the world's largest cobalt producer in part due to Kisanfu's output. |
| Metalkol RTR Project | Eurasian Resources Group (ERG) Africa | 22,610 | Hydrometallurgical facility reprocessing historical cobalt-copper tailings; committed to responsible sourcing. |
| Tenke Fungurume (TFM) | CMOC Group (80%), Gécamines (20%) | 22,500 | One of the world's largest copper-cobalt mines; subject to a past royalties dispute with the DRC state mining company Gécamines, which was settled in 2023. |
| Kamoto (KCC) | Glencore (75%), Gécamines (25%) | 27,600 (includes KOV and Mashamba East) | Operated by Kamoto Copper Company, it includes the underground Kamoto mine, as well as the KOV and Mashamba East open-pit mines and the Luilu refinery. Glencore is a major Western investor. |
| KOV Mine | Glencore Plc | 17,740 | Part of the Kamoto Copper Company operations. |
| Mashamba East Mine | Glencore Plc | 13,870 | Part of the Kamoto Copper Company operations. |
| Deziwa Project | China Nonferrous Metal Mining (Group) | 7,240 | |
| Mutanda Mine | Glencore Plc | 5,780 | Major copper and cobalt operation. |
| Etoile Mine | Shalina Resources | 6,380 | |
| Pumpi Cobalt and Copper Project | Wanbao Mining | 4,000 |
Note: Production figures are estimates for 2023 and may vary slightly across different sources. Some mines' output is consolidated under larger company operations.
Challenges and Government Oversight
Despite its immense mineral wealth, the DRC's cobalt sector faces significant challenges:
- Social and Environmental Concerns: The informal artisanal mining sector, while providing livelihoods for hundreds of thousands, is frequently associated with hazardous working conditions, child labor, and environmental degradation. Reports highlight alarming health problems among local populations due to pollution.
- Corruption and Illicit Trade: The sector is plagued by issues of corruption and illegal smuggling, leading to substantial revenue losses for the DRC government. Efforts to formalize artisanal mining and improve traceability are ongoing but face considerable hurdles.
- Geopolitical Influence: Chinese companies hold significant stakes and ownership in many of the DRC's largest copper and cobalt mines, raising questions about market concentration and supply chain vulnerabilities. The DRC government is seeking to diversify its partnerships.
- Regulatory Efforts: The DRC government, through entities like the Entreprise Générale du Cobalt (EGC) and the Authority for Regulation and Control of Strategic Mineral Substance Markets (ARECOMS), is attempting to assert greater control over the sector. Measures include granting EGC exclusive rights to export artisanal cobalt and implementing stricter responsible sourcing standards. A temporary cobalt export ban was also imposed in early 2025 to sanitize the sector.
The future of global cobalt supply is inextricably linked to the DRC. While the country's dominance is expected to continue, ongoing efforts to address social, environmental, and governance issues will be critical for ensuring a more sustainable and equitable cobalt value chain.
Indonesia's Cobalt Production
Indonesia is rapidly emerging as a significant force in the global cobalt market, poised to challenge the long-standing dominance of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). While historically a byproduct of nickel processing, the archipelago nation is strategically leveraging its abundant nickel laterite reserves to ramp up cobalt output, driven by the surging demand for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Cobalt production in Indonesia surged from a mere 1.3 kilotonnes (kt) in 2015 to an estimated 20.5 kt in 2024, a remarkable 22% increase from the previous year. This rapid growth is a direct consequence of the Indonesian government's strategic initiative to develop a robust domestic EV supply chain, with policies like the 2020 export ban on raw minerals acting as a pivotal catalyst for attracting substantial foreign investment, primarily from Chinese companies, into the country's nickel and cobalt processing industries.
As Indonesia's role in the cobalt supply chain grows, so does the scrutiny regarding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance. Unlike the DRC, which faces persistent issues with artisanal mining, child labor, and human rights abuses, Indonesia emphasizes formal operations and has a stronger regulatory framework for ESG compliance. This commitment to responsible mining practices could make Indonesian cobalt a more attractive and reliable source for global tech companies and EV manufacturers seeking ethical and transparent supply chains.
Table: Estimated Cobalt Production in Indonesia (Metric Tonnes)
| Year | Estimated Production (Metric Tonnes) | Source/Notes |
| 2023 | 19,000 | Modern Diplomacy |
| 2024 | 28,000 - 55,630 | Modern Diplomacy, Energy News, Argus Media |
| 2027 (Projected) | 114,630 | Septian Hario Seto (National Economic Council) |
| 2030 (Projected Share) | Approximately 22% of global supply | Cobalt Institute's Cobalt Market Report 2024 |
| 2040 (Projected Growth) | Nearly 80% growth from current levels | International Energy Agency (IEA) |
Note: Production figures can vary slightly depending on the reporting agency and methodology. The figures above represent a compilation from various recent reports.
Nevertheless, Indonesia's strategic position, coupled with its vast resources and commitment to value-added processing, presents a compelling opportunity to reshape the global cobalt landscape. As the world accelerates its shift towards electric vehicles, Indonesia is well-positioned to become a cornerstone of the sustainable and ethical cobalt supply chain of the future.
Russia's Cobalt Production
Russia is a notable player in the global cobalt market, consistently ranking among the top producers. While it doesn't rival the sheer volume of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or the rapidly growing output of Indonesia, Russia holds significant reserves and is a steady supplier, primarily of high-purity cobalt. However, its position has been increasingly impacted by geopolitical tensions and Western sanctions, leading to shifts in trade patterns.
Cobalt in Russia is predominantly produced as a byproduct of nickel and copper mining, particularly from the vast operations of Norilsk Nickel (Nornickel), the country's primary cobalt producer. Nornickel's assets in the Arctic Circle, including the Kola Division and the Norilsk Division, yield cobalt alongside other valuable metals. This integrated production model contributes to the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of Russian cobalt output.
Production Dynamics and Key Player
Nornickel, a global leader in nickel and palladium production, extracts cobalt from its sulphide ores. The company produces various cobalt products, including cobalt cathodes, cobalt concentrate, and cobalt sulphate, catering to different industrial applications, notably in battery manufacturing and superalloys.
Despite Russia's substantial cobalt reserves, estimated at 250,000 metric tonnes in 2023, its production volume is considerably smaller than the DRC's. In 2023, Russia was the world's third-largest cobalt producer, contributing around 3.8% of global mine output.
A fire at Nornickel's Kola MMC subsidiary in 2022 impacted its cobalt production capacity. However, the company has been actively working to restore and even increase its output. Nornickel is aiming to produce 3,000 tonnes of cobalt annually from a new facility by mid-2025, which would significantly boost its production capabilities.
Geopolitical Impact and Trade Shifts
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and subsequent sanctions imposed by the EU and US have introduced complexities into Russia's cobalt trade. While direct bans on Russian cobalt have not been as widespread as for other commodities, the overall sanctions environment has hindered Russia's ability to reliably supply to traditional Western markets. This has led to a reorientation of its export flows, with China emerging as a dominant destination for Russian cobalt. In 2023, China was the primary recipient of Russia's cobalt exports.
Despite these challenges, the global demand for cobalt, particularly from the electric vehicle and electronics sectors, remains strong. Russia's consistent production of high-quality cobalt means it continues to be an important, albeit more challenging, source for the global market.
Future Outlook
Forecasts suggest that Russia's cobalt production might see moderate growth in the coming years. While geopolitical factors introduce uncertainty, Nornickel's efforts to restore and expand its facilities, along with potential for further exploration of its reserves (including deep-sea deposits), indicate a continued, albeit potentially constrained, presence in the global cobalt supply chain.
Table: Estimated Cobalt Production in Russia (Metric Tonnes)
| Year | Estimated Production (Metric Tonnes) | Source/Notes |
| 2021 | 7,600 | Vinachem |
| 2022 | ~8,010 | GlobalData |
| 2023 | 8,800 | Natural Resources Canada, Mining Visuals, Visual Capitalist |
| 2024 (Projected) | 8,060 | GlobalData (as of Feb 2025) |
| 2025 (Targeted from new facility) | 3,000 (additional to current ~1,000) | Interfax (Nornickel Kola MMC) |
| 2029 (Projected) | ~8,080 | GlobalData (as of Feb 2025) |
Note: Production figures can vary slightly depending on the reporting agency and methodology. The figures above represent a compilation from various recent reports, focusing on mine production.
Australia Cobalt Production
Australia holds an incredibly strategic position in the global cobalt market, boasting the world's second-largest cobalt reserves after the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). With significant untapped potential, the nation is increasingly focused on leveraging its resources to meet the surging demand for critical minerals, particularly from the booming electric vehicle (EV) battery sector.
While Australia's current production levels are modest compared to its vast reserves, the country is actively working to ramp up its output. Cobalt in Australia is predominantly found as a byproduct of nickel and copper mining, particularly from laterite deposits in Western Australia and Queensland. This integrated production model offers a distinct advantage, as it diversifies revenue streams for mining companies and supports the development of broader battery material supply chains.
The Untapped Potential and Strategic Shift
Despite holding around 15% of the world's known cobalt reserves (estimated at 1.7 million tonnes in 2024), Australia currently accounts for only about 2% of global cobalt mine production. This disparity highlights a significant opportunity for growth. The Australian government, recognizing the critical importance of these minerals for the global energy transition, is actively promoting investment in downstream processing and value-adding activities.
A key driver for increased Australian cobalt production is the global push for ethically sourced and responsible minerals. Unlike the DRC, which faces persistent scrutiny over artisanal mining practices and human rights concerns, Australia offers a transparent and well-regulated mining environment. This "clean" cobalt narrative is highly appealing to major battery manufacturers and EV companies seeking to de-risk their supply chains.
Key Players and Emerging Projects
Several companies are at the forefront of Australia's cobalt development:
- Glencore's Murrin Murrin Operation: This established nickel-cobalt operation in Western Australia remains a significant contributor to Australia's current cobalt output.
- Cobalt Blue Holdings (ASX: COB): This company is a dedicated cobalt player with its flagship Broken Hill Cobalt Project in New South Wales. While current market conditions have led them to pause full mine development, they are progressing with the construction of a refinery to process cobalt sulphate, aiming for production from late 2027. This project is notable for being primarily a cobalt mine, rather than a byproduct operation.
- Ardea Resources (ASX: ARL): Their Kalgoorlie Nickel Project, particularly the Goongarrie Hub, is touted as Australia's largest nickel-cobalt resource. With strategic partnerships and significant Japanese investment, Ardea is targeting production by 2029, aiming to produce approximately 2,000 tonnes of cobalt annually as mixed hydroxide precipitate (MHP).
- IGO (ASX: IGO): Operates the Nova nickel-copper-cobalt operation in Western Australia.
- Jervois Global Ltd (ASX: JRV): Advancing its Young cobalt and nickel project (Nico Young) in New South Wales.
- Alliance Nickel (ASX: AXN): Developing the NiWest Nickel Cobalt Project in Western Australia, adjacent to Murrin Murrin, which is another large, undeveloped nickel-cobalt resource.
Challenges and Outlook
While the long-term outlook for Australian cobalt is positive, the industry faces challenges, including:
- Volatility in Cobalt Prices: The recent oversupply in the market has driven cobalt prices down from their 2022 highs, impacting the economic viability of new projects, particularly those solely focused on cobalt.
- High Operating Costs: Australia's higher labor and operational costs compared to some other cobalt-producing regions can make it challenging to compete without a price premium for ethically sourced material.
- Capital-Intensive Processing: The processing of laterite ores to produce battery-grade cobalt, often via HPAL, requires substantial upfront capital investment.
Despite these hurdles, the long-term demand for cobalt, driven by the continued growth of the EV and renewable energy sectors, ensures Australia's strategic importance. The country's strong environmental regulations, stable political climate, and focus on value-added processing position it to become a more significant and reliable supplier in the coming decade, contributing substantially to a diversified and responsible global cobalt supply chain.
Table: Estimated Cobalt Production in Australia (Metric Tonnes)
| Year | Estimated Mine Production (Metric Tonnes) | Source/Notes |
| 2021 | 5,290 | GlobalData |
| 2022 | 5,786 | USGS, TheGlobalEconomy.com |
| 2023 | 4,600 - 5,000 | Natural Resources Canada, Mining Technology (Glencore Murrin Murrin: 2,100t) |
| 2024 | 5,330 | GlobalData |
| 2029 (Projected) | ~6,000 - 7,000 (Goongarrie Hub additional ~2,000 tpa from 2029) | GlobalData, Crux Investor |
The global cobalt market is in a dynamic state of transformation, driven by the insatiable demand from the electric vehicle (EV) battery sector and evolving geopolitical landscapes. While currently experiencing a surplus due to increased production, particularly from Indonesia, and a temporary slowdown in certain demand segments, projections indicate a potential swing to a deficit by the early 2030s. This future imbalance underscores the urgent need for continued investment in new mining projects and diversified supply chains. As countries like Indonesia and Australia strategically leverage their reserves and focus on value-added processing, and Russia navigates sanctions, the coming years will undoubtedly see a re-shaping of the global cobalt supply map, with a growing emphasis on ethical sourcing and supply security.
Madagascar Cobalt Supply
Madagascar, the large island nation off the coast of East Africa, plays a significant role in the global cobalt market, primarily driven by its substantial nickel-cobalt resources. While not matching the colossal output of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or the burgeoning production from Indonesia, Madagascar consistently ranks among the top cobalt-producing nations, contributing valuable supply to the battery and specialty metals industries.
The vast majority of Madagascar's cobalt production comes as a byproduct of its nickel mining operations, particularly from the world-class Ambatovy project. This integrated mining and refining operation is one of the largest foreign investments in the country and a major contributor to the Malagasy economy.
The Ambatovy Project: Madagascar's Cobalt Powerhouse
The Ambatovy mine, located in the eastern part of the island, is a large open-pit lateritic nickel-cobalt mine. It utilizes a hydrometallurgical process, specifically High-Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL), to extract nickel and cobalt from its laterite ore. This sophisticated process allows for the production of high-purity nickel and cobalt briquettes, essential for various industrial applications, including the rapidly expanding electric vehicle battery market.
Owned by a joint venture primarily involving Japan's Sumitomo Corporation and Korea Mine Rehabilitation and Mineral Resources Corporation (KOMIR), Ambatovy has a designed annual production capacity of 5,300 tonnes of cobalt and 60,000 tonnes of nickel. While the project has faced operational challenges and market fluctuations since its inception in 2012, it remains the cornerstone of Madagascar's cobalt output. Operations were temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 but resumed in March 2021.
Production and Global Standing
Madagascar has consistently been among the top 10 cobalt producers globally. In 2023, it was ranked as the sixth-largest producer, reflecting its steady contribution to the world's cobalt supply. The country's reserves are estimated at approximately 100,000 metric tonnes, primarily concentrated within the Ambatovy deposit.
The focus on producing refined nickel and cobalt within Madagascar adds significant value to its mineral resources, contributing to local employment, technological transfer, and foreign exchange earnings.
ESG Considerations in Madagascar's Mining Sector
Like many resource-rich nations in Africa, Madagascar's mining sector faces scrutiny regarding Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. The Ambatovy project, due to its large scale and location in a biodiversity hotspot, has been particularly under the spotlight. Concerns have been raised regarding its environmental impact, including potential land displacement and the management of tailings.
However, the project owners emphasize their commitment to integrating international standards for environmental management and social engagement. Ambatovy's sustainability reports outline its efforts to minimize its footprint and contribute positively to local communities, highlighting the importance of responsible sourcing for global consumers. While challenges remain, the formal nature of the Ambatovy operation generally provides a more transparent and regulated environment compared to regions heavily reliant on artisanal mining.
Future Outlook
Madagascar's cobalt production is intrinsically linked to the performance and stability of the Ambatovy project. As the global demand for battery minerals continues its upward trajectory, the long-term outlook for Madagascar's cobalt industry remains positive. Continued operational efficiency, coupled with a focus on sustainable practices, will be crucial for Madagascar to maintain and potentially expand its role as a reliable supplier in the evolving global cobalt market.
Table: Estimated Cobalt Production in Madagascar (Metric Tonnes)
| Year | Estimated Mine Production (Metric Tonnes) | Source/Notes |
| 2021 | 2,800 | African Green Minerals Observatory |
| 2022 | ~4,000 | (Based on Ambatovy capacity) |
| 2023 | 4,000 | USGS, Mining Visuals |
| 2024 (Projected) | ~4,000 - 5,000 (Ambatovy operating near capacity) | |
| Designed Capacity | 5,300 | Ambatovy Project Information |
Note: Production figures can vary slightly depending on the reporting agency and methodology. The figures above primarily reflect output from the Ambatovy mine, which is Madagascar's dominant cobalt producer.
The Shifting Landscape of Global Cobalt Production
The global cobalt market is at a pivotal juncture, marked by rapid growth in supply, evolving demand patterns, and increasing scrutiny over ethical sourcing. Cobalt, a critical component in the vast majority of lithium-ion batteries powering electric vehicles (EVs) and portable electronics, is experiencing unprecedented expansion in its production footprint beyond its traditional stronghold. While the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains the dominant force, new players like Indonesia are rapidly gaining ground, fundamentally reshaping the supply chain.
The DRC continues to hold the lion's share of global cobalt mine production, largely due to its vast copper-cobalt deposits and the expansion of major industrial mines, particularly by Chinese-backed companies. However, this dominance comes with persistent challenges related to artisanal mining, child labor, and human rights, which exert continuous pressure on global supply chains to ensure responsible sourcing.
Indonesia has emerged as a formidable challenger, swiftly ascending to become the world's second-largest cobalt producer. This meteoric rise is primarily driven by significant investments, predominantly from China, in High-Pressure Acid Leaching (HPAL) facilities that process the country's abundant nickel laterite ores, yielding cobalt as a valuable byproduct. Indonesia's proactive policies aimed at downstream processing further solidify its position in the battery value chain.
Other key contributors include Russia, a steady supplier of high-purity cobalt, primarily from Norilsk Nickel's operations, though its market access has been impacted by geopolitical sanctions. Australia, despite holding the world's second-largest cobalt reserves, currently maintains a more modest production profile. However, with its strong regulatory environment and growing focus on "clean" cobalt, new projects are poised to significantly increase its output in the coming years. Similarly, Madagascar, largely through the Ambatovy nickel-cobalt project, plays a consistent role in African cobalt supply.
The demand side is overwhelmingly dominated by the electric vehicle (EV) sector, which accounts for an ever-increasing proportion of total cobalt consumption. While there has been a recent market surplus and a temporary dip in prices due to increased supply and some shifts in battery chemistries (like the growth of LFP batteries), the long-term outlook points to sustained robust demand. Industry forecasts, such as those from the Cobalt Institute, predict that demand will outstrip supply by the early 2030s, potentially leading to a market deficit.
This dynamic environment necessitates a multi-faceted approach. Diversification of supply sources, as evidenced by the rise of Indonesia and the potential of Australia, is crucial for global supply security. Simultaneously, rigorous attention to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices across all producing regions is paramount to building a truly sustainable and ethical cobalt supply chain that meets the expectations of consumers and regulators worldwide. The future of global cobalt production hinges on a delicate balance between maximizing output to meet burgeoning demand and ensuring responsible practices that protect both people and the planet.