Key Market Indicators
South African cobalt exports are expected to reach nearly two million kilograms by 2026, growing 0.9% each year on average. Since 2005, the country has seen an increase of 4.3% annually. In 2021, South Africa was the 13th largest exporter of cobalt, with Morocco surpassing the nation's total of 1.8 million kilograms. The United States, Russia and China followed in second, third, and fourth place respectively. Meanwhile, South African cobalt imports declined 7.4% in 2018 to 6,550 kilograms, down from 7,080 kilograms in 2017. Since 2005, the demand for imported cobalt in the country has decreased by 27.4% annually. In 2018, South Africa was the 49th largest importer of cobalt, with Saudi Arabia ahead at 6,550 kilograms. Belgium, the United States and Japan were the next three leading importers.