Cobalt traded flat at 33,335 USD/T on June 19, 2025. Over the past month, Cobalt's price has fallen 1.08%, but it is still 22.78% higher than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Cobalt - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on June of 2025.

The futures price of cobalt ranged between ****** and ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton between August 2019 and May 2024. The impact of the COVID-19 crisis can be appreciated between March and July 2020, when cobalt futures prices dropped to around ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton. The first significant increase in this figure following the beginning of the pandemic was in August 2020, followed by a generalized increase throughout 2021 to the reach a peak of ****** U.S. dollars in March 2022. Futures vs. Spot prices Futures prices are delineated in futures contracts, which allow buying or selling a commodity at a predetermined price and date, helping investors forecast the market through futures prices. Almost ** billion futures contracts were traded worldwide in 2022. In comparison, spot prices indicate the current cost of buying a commodity. For example, the average cobalt spot price in the United States was ** U.S. dollars per pound in 2022. Cobalt in battery production Cobalt is a primary component of producing batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries, used in various electronic devices, especially electric vehicles (EVs). EV batteries require a specific amount of cobalt, while conventional vehicles do not. With an increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries in EVs as the EV industry advances, the global cobalt market volume is expected to increase continuously by 2025.

In 2024, the average spot price of cobalt cathode in the U.S. stood at an estimated 17 U.S. dollars per pound. That was a slight decrease compared to the previous year's spot price, which was 17.2 U.S. dollars per pound. While cobalt spot prices have been on the rise in many recent years, they are still lower than in 2018, when the cobalt spot price reached a high of 37.43 U.S. dollars per pound. Cobalt prices Due to market surpluses of cobalt, prices of the mineral commodity have decreased compared to 2022. In 2022, the annual average global price for one metric ton of cobalt amounted to 63,739 U.S. dollars, while it is expected to decrease to 50,320 U.S. dollars per metric ton in 2024. The cobalt futures price as of February 2024 stood at 28,137 U.S. dollars per metric ton. Cobalt in the United States The largest share of cobalt consumption in the United States is attributable to superalloys, followed by chemical and ceramic uses, then steel alloys, and finally cemented carbides. Since the U.S. has only one domestic cobalt mine that opened in 2022, domestic demand is partially met through imports. Between 2019 and 2022, Norway was the largest supplier of cobalt imports to the United States. As of 2021, cobalt in its metal form had the highest value out of all cobalt imports to the United States.

The market value of cobalt is anticipated to grow by more than double between 2023 and 2030, from an estimated **** billion U.S. dollars in 2023 to a forecast **** billion U.S. dollars in 2030. Cobalt is produced as a by-product of copper and nickel mining, and has become an important material for the production of lithium-ion batteries.

The global cobalt market is valued at 16.12 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 34.73 billion by 2035, representing a CAGR of 7.23% during the forecast period.

Snapshot img

Cobalt Market Size 2025-2029

The cobalt market size is forecast to increase by USD 9.17 billion at a CAGR of 12.9% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven primarily by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and their batteries, which rely heavily on cobalt for their production. The market is further fueled by the rising number of mining projects aimed at meeting the surging demand for this critical mineral. However, the market's growth trajectory is not without challenges. Regulatory hurdles, particularly those related to ethical sourcing and environmental concerns, impact adoption and pose a significant challenge. Cobalt mining, primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo, has been linked to human rights abuses and child labor, leading to increased scrutiny and potential regulatory restrictions. The market is experiencing significant growth due to the expanding electric vehicle industry, which utilizes this mineral as a crucial component in lithium-ion batteries.
Moreover, supply chain inconsistencies, including the lack of transparency and reliability, temper growth potential and add complexity to the market landscape. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities must navigate these challenges effectively by ensuring ethical sourcing, improving supply chain transparency, and investing in alternative, more sustainable sources of cobalt.

What will be the Size of the Cobalt Market during the forecast period?

Request Free Sample

The market is experiencing significant dynamics and trends, driven by the increasing demand for batteries in various industries. Cobalt, a crucial component in battery production, is under scrutiny due to sustainability concerns and the exploration of alternatives. Hydrometallurgical extraction and solvent extraction processes are gaining traction as potential cobalt supply chain solutions, while cobalt price forecasting remains a critical factor in the industry. Battery efficiency and performance are key considerations in the market, with the development of solid-state batteries and nickel-rich and manganese-rich cathodes. Recycling technologies and ethical cobalt sourcing are also essential as the industry addresses battery safety concerns and the issue of conflict minerals. Cobalt, a crucial element in various industries, has gained significant attention due to its essential role in battery production for renewable energy sources and electric vehicle.
Cobalt reduction and substitution are ongoing efforts to mitigate sustainability issues and reduce reliance on primary mining. Cobalt purification and trading are integral to maintaining the quality and consistency of the supply chain. The future of the market hinges on the successful implementation of these trends and the continued innovation in battery technology. Cobalt-free batteries are a promising alternative, but their adoption remains limited due to battery life and consumption concerns. Leaching processes and regulatory frameworks for cobalt mining are also evolving to address sustainability and ethical sourcing issues. Overall, the market is undergoing transformative changes, driven by the need for sustainable and ethical battery production. Cobalt is a key component in lithium-ion batteries, which are widely used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems
The integration of alternative materials and advanced extraction techniques, along with regulatory compliance and ethical sourcing, will shape the future of the industry.

How is this Cobalt Industry segmented?

The cobalt industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Cobalt sulfate
  Cobalt oxide
  Cobalt metal


Application

  Batteries and electronics
  Super alloys
  Pigments
  Hard materials
  Others


Form Factor

  Chemical compound
  Metal
  Purchased scrap


End-user

  Electronics
  Automotive
  Aerospace
  Medical
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    Russia
    UK


  APAC

    Australia
    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The cobalt sulfate segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Cobalt, a critical component in the production of battery materials, particularly cobalt sulfate, plays a pivotal role in powering various industries. The electric vehicle sector's expansion, driven by consumer preferences for sustainable transportation and government incentives, significantly increases the demand for cobalt. Cobalt mining and mineral processing are essential for extracting this mineral, with geochemical exploration guiding mine developmen

According to Cognitive Market research, the global cobalt market is expected to have a market size of XX million in 2024 with a growing CAGR of XX% during the forecast period.

The Global Cobalt Market is expected to have a market size of XX million in 2024 with a growing CAGR of XX% during the forecast period. 
The rising production of electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to increase the consumption of cobalt during the forecast period.
The aerospace, chemical processing, and power-generating industries all use cobalt-based superalloys, therefore it is anticipated that expanded aircraft manufacturing will promote the production of superalloys.
The Asia-Pacific region has the largest market share in with an expected market size of XX million in 2024 with a growing CAGR of XX% during the forecast period. 
Europe region is the fastest growing region with an expected market size of XX million in 2024 with a growing CAGR of XX% during the forecast period.

Market Dynamic

Key Drivers

The rising adoption of Electric Vehicles (EVs) across the globe is favoring market growth 

Cobalt is used in the production of batteries for EVs. This is because cobalt serves multiple vital functions. Cobalt helps lithium-ion batteries have a better energy density, especially when paired with nickel. For electric cars, this means greater performance and longer driving ranges. Long cycle life and stability are well-known characteristics of cobalt-based cathodes. This implies that before encountering appreciable capacity deterioration, EV batteries can go through several cycles of charging and discharging. It also provides voltage stability. Cobalt-containing batteries provide a stable voltage output for the duration of their life, which is essential for the dependable and constant operation of electric cars. Because of their high charging rate capability, these batteries enable quick charging, cutting down on the amount of time needed to recharge an EV's battery. The demand for alternative fuel vehicles has also been facilitated by rising fuel prices and the detrimental environmental effects of conventional gasoline-powered cars. The EV market is expected to grow as a result of consumers' growing preference for hybrid or battery-powered cars. The market for electric vehicles is growing as a result of the governments of both developed and developing nations implementing rigorous legislation and providing market participants with incentives. For instance, the FAME II initiative in India offers funding of up to USD 135 million to incentivize investment in EVSE for electric buses. This should cover one low-power and one rapid charger for every ten buses. Furthermore, a non-profit organization named "Veloz" was established by legislators, automakers, and charging network providers to advance electric vehicles in North America. The organization's goals were to spur market expansion, innovation, investment, and marketing for electric vehicles. Thereby with the rising electric vehicles market the market for cobalt will also be increasing rapidly.

The rising electronics sector globally is favoring market growth 

The electronics sector is growing rapidly globally. Nearly all modern laptops, tablets, and smartphones cannot recharge their batteries without Kolwezi. Rechargeable batteries can keep more charge and run safely for longer because of cobalt's maximum stability and energy density. Found in almost all rechargeable batteries used in cell phones and other battery-powered devices, cobalt plays a significant role in extending battery life. The demand for cell phones is rising significantly on a global scale. According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), there were more than 8.58 billion mobile subscriptions in use worldwide in 2022, compared to a global population of 7.95 billion halfway through the year. Additionally, by 2027, there will probably be 7,690 million subscriptions, which will increase cobalt's use in the smartphone market. It is anticipated that the US electronics industry will grow at a moderate pace. The United States is leading the world in technological innovation and electronics sector R&D, which is driving the need for faster and newer electronic equipment. Retail sales of technology and consumer electronics in the US are expected to bring in USD 505 billion in revenue in 2022, up from USD 461 b...

Explore the factors influencing cobalt prices, a strategic metal vital for EV batteries and aerospace, including supply dynamics, geopolitical issues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, tech advances, and sustainability efforts.

Cobalt is available in various forms, including chemical compounds, metal, and purchased scrap. Chemical compounds, comprising cobalt salts and oxides, find applications in catalysts, pigments, and magnetic materials. Metallic cobalt is utilized in super alloys, hardfacing materials, and coatings. Purchased scrap plays a significant role in recycling and waste reduction efforts. Recent developments include: December 2021 - , In December 2021, Kabanga Nickel announced their plan to invest heavily in their upcoming project of nickel-cobalt-copper property to increase their production., April 2022 - , In April 2022, Glencore and General Motors signed a sourcing agreement, where Glencore will be bound to supply cobalt from its Murrin operations to General Motors. , March 2022 - , In March 2022, MMG announced its business expansion in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by investing about USD 500 million., . Key drivers for this market are: The Cobalt Market is propelled by several driving forces. The rising popularity of electric vehicles and their growing battery capacity requirements drive cobalt demand. The increasing adoption of cobalt-based catalysts in various industries and the expanding use of cobalt in energy storage systems further contribute to market growth.. Potential restraints include: The Cobalt Market faces certain challenges and restraints. Concerns over the sustainable and ethical sourcing of cobalt, particularly from conflict-prone regions, pose a challenge. The dependence on a few key production regions, such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, raises supply chain vulnerability concerns. Additionally, market dynamics may be impacted by fluctuations in the price of cobalt.. Notable trends are: Growing demand for polymerization and blowing agents.

Cobalt price in the United States: Find statistics from the world's leading and most famous BI tool. 2 million reports updated monthly.

Explore the volatility of cobalt prices per kilogram, driven by supply chain dynamics, geopolitical factors, and rising demand from the electric vehicle (EV) industry. This article examines how market trends, technological advancements, and ethical sourcing impact the future of cobalt in global markets.

Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt stock price, live market quote, shares value, historical data, intraday chart, earnings per share and news.

Electrolytic Cobalt Market Outlook

The global electrolytic cobalt market size was valued at approximately USD 1.45 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2.31 billion by 2032, growing at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by increasing demand from various end-user industries, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics, as well as the expanding application of cobalt in batteries, particularly lithium-ion batteries.

One of the primary growth factors for the electrolytic cobalt market is the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry. As the world shifts towards greener energy solutions, the demand for lithium-ion batteries, which utilize cobalt as a crucial component, is skyrocketing. Cobalt enhances battery life and stability, making it indispensable for EV manufacturers aiming to offer longer driving ranges and more reliable performance. This surge in EV production directly correlates with an increased demand for high-purity electrolytic cobalt.

Another significant growth driver is the aerospace industry, which relies heavily on superalloys containing cobalt for critical engine and structural components. Cobalt-based superalloys are renowned for their high-temperature strength, corrosion resistance, and durability, which are crucial for aerospace applications. As air travel continues to expand globally, the demand for advanced materials like electrolytic cobalt is expected to rise, further propelling market growth.

Additionally, the electronics industry is fostering demand for electrolytic cobalt, particularly in the production of magnets and catalysts. Cobalt’s magnetic properties make it a key ingredient in permanent magnets used in various electronic devices and renewable energy technologies. Moreover, its application as a catalyst in the petrochemical and chemical industries is expanding, driven by the need for efficient and sustainable production processes. These applications underscore cobalt’s versatility and indispensability across multiple sectors.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific region dominates the global electrolytic cobalt market, driven by significant industrial growth in countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea. The robust manufacturing sectors in these nations, coupled with strong investments in battery production and electronics, are key contributors to regional market expansion. North America and Europe also represent significant markets, bolstered by advancements in automotive technologies and aerospace industries.

Product Type Analysis

High-purity electrolytic cobalt is garnering increased attention and demand due to its essential role in high-performance applications such as electric vehicle batteries and aerospace superalloys. This segment is characterized by cobalt’s superior purity levels, which ensure optimal performance in critical applications that demand stringent quality standards. Companies are investing heavily in refining processes to achieve high-purity levels, which, in turn, enhance product reliability and market competitiveness. The continuous innovation in refining technologies is expected to drive the growth of this segment.

In contrast, standard-purity electrolytic cobalt caters to applications where ultra-high purity is not a primary requirement but where the material's intrinsic properties still provide significant benefits. This segment finds its main applications in industrial catalysts and magnets used in electronics and renewable energy sectors. The relatively lower cost of standard-purity cobalt makes it an attractive option for many industries, especially in regions where cost-containment is a major concern. This segment's growth is largely driven by steady demand from traditional industries and incremental advancements in cobalt applications.

Both product types are integral to the overall market dynamics. High-purity electrolytic cobalt, while catering to niche and high-value applications, sets the technological benchmark and drives innovation. Meanwhile, standard-purity cobalt ensures widespread adoption across various industries, maintaining a balance between cost and performance. The interplay between these segments highlights the diverse applications and the market’s adaptability to meet different industry needs.

Looking forward, advancements in extraction and refining technologies are expected to further enhance the quality and availability of both high-purity and standard-purity electrolytic cobalt. Companies that can efficiently scal

The global cobalt market, valued at $9.76 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven primarily by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry's insatiable demand for lithium-ion batteries. A compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.73% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant expansion, reaching an estimated market value exceeding $30 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by increasing investments in renewable energy infrastructure and the expanding adoption of consumer electronics incorporating cobalt-based components. Key applications like batteries and electronics represent the largest market segments, while superalloys, pigments, and hard materials contribute significantly. Geographic distribution shows strong concentration in the Asia-Pacific region (APAC), particularly China, driven by its dominance in battery manufacturing and electronics production. North America and Europe also represent substantial markets, fueled by growing EV adoption and technological advancements. However, market growth faces challenges including price volatility, ethical sourcing concerns related to mining practices, and the exploration of alternative battery chemistries that reduce cobalt dependency. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established mining companies and emerging battery material producers, each employing diverse competitive strategies including mergers and acquisitions, vertical integration, and sustainable sourcing initiatives. The industry’s inherent risks include geopolitical instability in cobalt-rich regions, environmental regulations, and fluctuations in raw material prices. The competitive landscape is intensely dynamic, with major players like Glencore, Umicore, and Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt dominating the market. These companies are strategically investing in capacity expansion, technological improvements in extraction and refining processes, and securing long-term supply agreements to maintain their market share. Smaller players are focusing on niche applications or specific geographic regions, leveraging expertise in sustainable and ethical cobalt sourcing to gain a competitive edge. The ongoing development of alternative battery technologies presents both a threat and an opportunity. While potentially reducing demand for cobalt in the long term, it also spurs innovation in cobalt processing and the development of higher-performance cobalt-based materials, thereby maintaining market relevance and growth. Future market growth will depend heavily on the continued expansion of the EV sector, the successful mitigation of geopolitical and environmental risks, and the effective management of price volatility.

The South Korea cobalt market size reached approximately 13.70 KMT in 2024. The market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 11.40% in the forecast period of 2025-2034, reaching a volume of around 40.32 KMT by 2034.

The global high-purity cobalt metal market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand from key sectors such as the battery industry, particularly for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $2.5 billion (assuming a plausible market size given the growth drivers and the fact that similar metals markets are in the billions). The market is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of $4.5 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several factors: the escalating demand for lithium-ion batteries, advancements in permanent magnet technology for wind turbines and electric motors, and the expanding use of cobalt-based catalysts in various chemical processes. Furthermore, the increasing focus on renewable energy and sustainable technologies is further bolstering market growth. However, the market faces certain challenges. Fluctuations in cobalt prices due to supply chain complexities and geopolitical factors can impact market stability. Environmental concerns related to cobalt mining and processing also necessitate sustainable mining practices and responsible sourcing initiatives. Competition among various cobalt metal forms (electrolytic cobalt, cobalt powder) and diverse applications (alloys, magnets, catalysts) requires manufacturers to focus on product differentiation and technological advancements to maintain a competitive edge. Despite these constraints, the long-term outlook for the high-purity cobalt metal market remains positive, driven by the continuous expansion of the EV market and other technological advancements. Key players like Green Eco-Manufacturer, Jinchuan Group, and Umicore are strategically positioned to capitalize on these market opportunities.

One metric ton of cobalt cost ****** U.S. dollars in 2022. Industry analysts forecast that the global cobalt price will decrease to less than ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton in 2023 due to a market surplus.

The global electrolytic cobalt market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing demand from key sectors like aerospace, power generation, and the chemical industry. This surge is primarily fueled by the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) and the expanding renewable energy sector, both of which heavily rely on cobalt for battery production. While precise market size data for 2025 is not provided, considering a plausible CAGR of 8% (a conservative estimate given the industry's growth trajectory) and a reasonable starting point, the global market value could be estimated at $2.5 billion in 2025. This estimate is based on general market trends and reports from reliable sources showcasing significant growth in cobalt demand. This substantial market size is projected to continue expanding at a steady rate, with potential expansion into other sectors adding further growth drivers over the coming years. By 2033, given sustained growth, the market could reach a value exceeding $5 Billion. Several factors contribute to this positive outlook. The increasing production of EVs and energy storage systems presents a significant opportunity for electrolytic cobalt producers. However, challenges remain, including price volatility due to supply chain disruptions and environmental concerns surrounding cobalt mining. Furthermore, the market is experiencing a shift towards sustainable and ethical sourcing practices, placing pressure on companies to adopt responsible mining and processing methods. The competitive landscape features established players like Sumitomo Metal Mining and Nornickel, alongside newer entrants, creating both opportunities and challenges for companies seeking market share. Regional variations in growth will likely persist, with Asia-Pacific and North America anticipated to retain leading positions due to their strong industrial bases and technological advancements.

The cobalt concentrate market is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) sector's insatiable demand for lithium-ion batteries. This demand, coupled with increasing applications in aerospace and industrial sectors, fuels a significant market expansion. While precise market sizing data is not provided, considering the involvement of major players like Glencore, Vale, and CMOC, and a typical CAGR for such markets (let's assume a conservative 8% for illustration), we can project substantial growth in the coming years. The market is segmented geographically, with likely strong performances from regions such as North America and Europe due to robust EV adoption rates and established mining operations. However, supply chain vulnerabilities and geopolitical instability in key producing regions pose significant restraints. This necessitates diversification of sourcing and exploration of sustainable mining practices to ensure a stable cobalt supply for the future. The concentration of market share among established players indicates significant barriers to entry, but opportunities exist for companies developing innovative extraction and processing technologies. The forecast period (2025-2033) presents considerable opportunities for growth, particularly for companies leveraging technological advancements to enhance efficiency and sustainability in cobalt extraction. Strategic partnerships and mergers & acquisitions are likely to shape the competitive landscape, while environmental regulations and ethical sourcing concerns will continue to play a vital role in shaping market dynamics. Ongoing research and development into alternative battery technologies, while potentially posing a long-term threat, is not expected to significantly impact market growth within the forecast period. Thus, players focusing on responsible sourcing, optimized production, and efficient supply chain management are best positioned to capitalize on the burgeoning market.

The high-purity cobalt metal market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand from various sectors. Let's assume, for illustrative purposes, a 2025 market size of $2.5 billion and a CAGR of 6% for the forecast period (2025-2033). This implies substantial market expansion, reaching approximately $4.2 billion by 2033. Key drivers include the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry, which relies heavily on cobalt for batteries, and the expanding aerospace and defense sectors, requiring high-performance alloys. Furthermore, applications in catalysts, particularly in the chemical industry, contribute significantly to market growth. The market is segmented by application (Cobalt-based Alloys, Permanent Magnetic Materials, Catalyst, Others) and type (Electrolytic Cobalt, Cobalt Powder). Growth is geographically diverse, with North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific leading the demand, although emerging economies in other regions are expected to show significant growth potential in the coming years. While supply chain constraints and price volatility remain challenges, technological advancements in extraction and refining techniques are expected to mitigate these issues, ensuring a steady supply to meet the growing global demand. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of large established players and smaller specialized manufacturers, leading to innovative product development and strategic partnerships. The high-purity cobalt metal market's growth trajectory is expected to remain positive throughout the forecast period, driven by consistent demand from established and emerging applications. Technological advancements focusing on sustainable and ethical sourcing of cobalt are gaining momentum, addressing concerns related to environmental and social responsibility. This focus on sustainability further strengthens the market's long-term outlook, promoting investment and innovation within the industry. While price fluctuations remain a factor, the increasing adoption of high-purity cobalt in key sectors ensures that the market's positive growth trend will continue, with significant opportunities for established companies and new entrants alike. The ongoing research and development in battery technology, coupled with the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, will likely further fuel the demand for high-purity cobalt in the years to come.