Most of China's cobalt production, which accounted for 23 % of global output in 2005, and
much of Europe's production, derives from feed materials from the DRC. It is also
estimated that in 2005 75 % to 90 % of China's import of cobalt ores and concentrates came from the DRC. The price of refined cobalt is very volatile and has fluctuated between 8
USD/lb and 26 USD/lb from the beginning of 2000 to April 2004. In mid-January 2006 the
price was around 14 USD/lb (approximately 31.000 USD/metric ton).