The DRC’s export quota system has tightened cobalt supply, driving price volatility and prompting shifts in sourcing strategies across the global market.

LME Week 2025 opens for the lithium market amid rising uncertainty over China’s new export controls on battery materials, and a shifting outlook for domestic supply from lepidolite and salt-lake projects

The International Trade Centre and Global Battery Alliance have partnered to advance digital infrastructure and develop frameworks for battery passport certification. The initiative supports global standards for sustainability, transparency and traceability across the battery value chain.

Major Indian secondary lead manufacturer Pondy Oxides & Chemicals Limited (POCL) has reaffirmed its commitment to the green transition by making a strategic investment in US-headquartered ACE Green Recycling.

Geology not ideology: Why collaboration is key in the critical minerals supply chain

Direct lithium extraction in Europe is being positioned as a sustainable alternative to traditional methods, but its success will depend on overcoming hurdles in cost, regulation and scalability. Industry experts highlight that community acceptance and investment will be equally critical to its future.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has introduced cobalt export quotas following the suspension period, setting limits on shipments while outlining future allocations. The policy is designed to balance global supply and demand while supporting the country’s ambition to develop domestic processing capacity.

The global battery supply chain race is transforming economic influence, with gigafactories, raw material sourcing and recycling strategies shaping the future of electrification and energy storage

Europe’s battery industry is being urged to prioritise energy storage systems over electric vehicle competition with China, as rising AI-driven power demand and grid pressures highlight the need for scalable storage solutions.

Learn how Fastmarkets price assessments enable derivatives trading, risk management and investment in battery raw materials markets during the energy transition.