Cobalt traded flat at 33,335 USD/T on July 17, 2025. Over the past month, Cobalt's price has remained flat, but it is still 25.20% 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 July of 2025.

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.

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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?

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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

The market volume of cobalt is forecast to amount to a total of nearly ******* metric tons worldwide in 2025, an increase of more than 100 percent from the 2017 market volume of ****** metric tons.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Cobalt in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

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.

The total global supply of refined cobalt is estimated to amount to 210,000 metric tons in 2023, an increase of 24 percent compared to 2022. Meanwhile, global refined cobalt demand is expected to amount to 205,000 metric tons in 2023, representing an increase of eight percent compared to 2022. Overall, experts are forecasting a cobalt market surplus of nearly 5,600 metric tons in 2023.

The global cobalt market surged to $X in 2021, rising by 22% against the previous year. Over the period under review, consumption, however, saw resilient growth. As a result, consumption reached the peak level of $X. From 2019 to 2021, the growth of the global market remained at a somewhat lower figure.

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 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.

After four years of growth, the New Zealand cobalt market decreased by -23.1% to $26K in 2024. Over the period under review, consumption, however, showed slight growth. As a result, consumption attained the peak level of $40K. From 2015 to 2024, the growth of the market failed to regain momentum.

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.

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.

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

Refined Cobalt Market Outlook

The global refined cobalt market size was valued at approximately USD 7.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 14.2 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by increasing demand for battery-grade cobalt due to the rising production of electric vehicles (EVs), which significantly influences the market dynamics. The push towards renewable energy sources and the surge in electronic device usage are further propelling the market expansion. As industries undergo rapid technological advancements, the utility of cobalt in various applications is expected to grow exponentially, augmenting its market prospects.

The transition towards electrification, particularly in the automotive sector, is a significant growth factor for the refined cobalt market. Electric vehicles are witnessing unprecedented adoption globally, necessitating a steady supply of battery-grade cobalt for lithium-ion batteries. As governments worldwide enact policies to reduce carbon emissions and promote the use of clean energy vehicles, the demand for cobalt, a critical component in EV batteries, is likely to surge. Additionally, technological innovations in battery technology, aiming to improve energy density and reduce costs, are expected to further escalate the demand for cobalt, contributing to the market's robust growth trajectory.

Furthermore, the energy sector's evolution towards renewable energy sources plays a pivotal role in the market's growth. Cobalt's application in energy storage solutions, such as grid-level batteries, is gaining prominence as more countries invest in renewable energy infrastructure. Energy storage systems are essential for stabilizing power grids and ensuring a steady supply of electricity, especially when integrating volatile renewable energy sources like solar and wind. This need for efficient energy storage solutions is pushing the demand for refined cobalt, thereby supporting market expansion. The strategic importance of cobalt in enabling energy transition and ensuring energy security is expected to maintain its demand in the foreseeable future.

In addition to the automotive and energy sectors, the aerospace and electronics industries are also contributing to the increasing demand for refined cobalt. Cobalt is used in superalloys that provide high-temperature stability and strength, making them ideal for aerospace applications. Furthermore, the electronics industry relies on cobalt for its magnetic properties, which are crucial in the production of components such as hard drives and mobile phones. As technological advancements continue to proliferate, these industries are anticipated to escalate their demand for cobalt, thereby fostering market growth. The symbiotic growth across these diverse applications underlines cobalt's integral role in modern industrial processes.

Regionally, Asia Pacific is emerging as a dominant player in the refined cobalt market, driven by rapid industrialization and urbanization. The region's burgeoning middle class and increasing disposable incomes are propelling the demand for consumer electronics and electric vehicles, thus augmenting the need for cobalt. China, in particular, with its extensive EV production and consumption, acts as a major hub for cobalt demand. North America and Europe are also significant markets due to their mature automotive sectors and ongoing investments in renewable energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, Latin America, backed by its rich cobalt reserves, is seeing growing interest from international mining companies aiming to secure supply chains. The varied regional dynamics highlight the global interconnectedness of the refined cobalt market.

Product Type Analysis

The refined cobalt market is segmented by product type into battery grade, chemical grade, and metallurgical grade, each playing a distinct role in different industrial applications. Battery-grade cobalt holds the largest market share, primarily driven by its extensive use in the production of lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and portable electronics. The demand for battery-grade cobalt is propelled by the growing electrification of vehicles and the proliferation of electronic devices. This segment's growth is further supported by ongoing research and development aimed at optimizing battery performance and efficiency, which continues to highlight the significance of high-purity cobalt in advanced energy storage solutions. The strategic importance of this segment is underscored by its crucial role in driving sustainability

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Cobalt Market Outlook 2032

The global cobalt market size was USD 16.96 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 28.89 Billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 6.2% during 2024–2032. The market growth is attributed to the rising demand for rechargeable batteries across the globe.



Growing demand for rechargeable batteries is a significant driver of the cobalt market. This is primarily, due to the high energy density and long-life span of cobalt-based batteries, which are extensively used in electric vehicles, laptops, smartphones, and other portable devices. The persistent growth of these industries is leading to a marked increase in the need for cobalt, an essential ingredient in these batteries.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Cobalt Market

Artificial Intelligence has a significant impact on cobalt market, transforming various aspects of the market. The integration of AI technology enhances the efficiency of mining operations, leading to increased productivity. AI-powered predictive analytics help in forecasting market trends, enabling businesses to make informed decisions. Additionally, AI-driven automation in the cobalt supply chain reduces operational costs and increases speed, thereby improving overall profitability. Furthermore, AI's role in developing electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies, which heavily rely on cobalt, indirectly influences the market's growth. The advent of AI has revolutionized the cobalt market, driving its expansion and profitability.

Cobalt Market Dynamics

Major Drivers

Increasing use in superalloys is expected to boost the market in the coming years. Superalloys, which are resistant to high temperatures and corrosion, are extensively used in the aerospace, power generation, and chemical industries. Cobalt enhances the high-temperature strength and corrosion resistance of these alloys, thus drivin

The size of the Cobalt Market market was valued at USD 16.68 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 25.41 billion by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 6.2 % during the forecast period. The Cobalt market can be said as operating on the basic principles of demand and supply of Cobalt, a metal widely used in various applications because of its desirable properties such as high melting point, resistance to corrosion and its unique magnetic properties. Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries dominate the cobalt usage where it plays a significant role in electric vehicles (EVs), smartphones, and portable electronics. It also has uses in uses aerospace engine superalloys, magnets and cutting tools. The dynamics of the market depend on the demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage; Recycling and more responsible attitude to the provenance of cobalt, including the conflict resources originating in the Democratic Republic of Congo also determine the market trends.