[SMM Analysis] May Cobalt Hydrometallurgy Intermediate Product Imports Slightly Increased, Import Prices Showed a Downward Trend

According to customs data, China's imports of cobalt hydrometallurgy intermediate products were approximately 18,400 mt in metal content (calculated at 35% grade) in May, up 0.4% MoM and 50% YoY. The import prices averaged $13,336/mt in metal content.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo remained the main import source in May. The imports from it were approximately 18,200 mt in metal content (calculated at 35% grade), accounting for about 99% of the total, with an average import price of $13,350/mt in metal content.

The top three provinces for cobalt hydrometallurgy intermediate product imports in May were Fujian, Jiangxi, and Zhejiang, with import shares of 21%, 18%, and 18%, respectively.