As a bridge connecting factories around the world, we provide high-quality wholesale supplier factories for businesses from various countries.
Cobalt chloride
📑 Table of Contents
- 📄 Introduction to Cobalt Chloride: Properties and Industrial Relevance
- 📄 Global Top 10 Cobalt Chloride Suppliers and Manufacturers
- 📄 Top 10 Cobalt Chloride Suppliers and Factories in China
- 📄 Global Supplier Profile Table with Contact Emails
- 📄 Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer
- └ 📌 Production Capacity and Scale
- └ 📌 Quality Control and Certifications
- └ 📌 Raw Material Sourcing
- └ 📌 Price and Payment Terms
- └ 📌 Logistics and Lead Time
- 📄 Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages
- └ 📌 Cost Leadership
- └ 📌 Scale and Availability
- └ 📌 Technological Advancement
- └ 📌 Integrated Recycling
- 📄 How to Find a Professional Manufacturer in China?
- └ 📌 Online B2B Platforms
- └ 📌 Industry Trade Shows
- └ 📌 Third-Party Audits
- └ 📌 Government and Association Directories
- 📄 Applications and Solutions for Cobalt Chloride
- └ 📌 Battery Materials (EV and Energy Storage)
- └ 📌 Catalysts for Petrochemicals
- └ 📌 Pigments and Ceramics
- └ 📌 Humidity Indicators and Desiccants
- └ 📌 Electroplating and Surface Finishing
- 📄 Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cobalt Chloride
- 📄 Procurement Considerations for Cobalt Chloride
- └ 📌 Contractual Clauses
- └ 📌 Inventory Management
- └ 📌 Supplier Diversification
- └ 📌 Regulatory Compliance
- 📄 Product Pricing and Market Rates
- 📄 Industry Standards for Cobalt Chloride
- 📄 Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions for Cobalt Chloride
- 📄 Google Search Commercial Terms: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers
- 📄 Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Cobalt Chloride
- 📄 Why Choose Small and Medium Factories? Differences from Large Factories
- 📄 Comprehensive 2026 News Roundup from Major Media Sources
- └ 📌 Reuters: "Cobalt Market Faces Supply Deficit as EV Demand Surges"
- └ 📌 BloombergNEF: "China's Cobalt Refining Capacity to Expand by 20%"
- └ 📌 Financial Times: "EU Proposes Stricter Cobalt Import Rules on Conflict Minerals"
- └ 📌 South China Morning Post: "Chinese Battery Makers Turn to Recycled Cobalt"
- └ 📌 Mining.com: "Cobalt Chloride Prices Stabilize After 2025 Volatility"
- 📄 2026 Market Core Data Overview
- 📄 Customer and Market Pain Points
Introduction to Cobalt Chloride: Properties and Industrial Relevance
Cobalt chloride (CoCl₂) is an inorganic compound that appears as blue crystals in its anhydrous form and transitions to a pink hue when hydrated (CoCl₂·6H₂O). This color change is a classic indicator of humidity, making it a staple in desiccant applications. Beyond its use as a moisture indicator, cobalt chloride is a critical raw material in the production of catalysts, pigments, and rechargeable batteries. It serves as a precursor for cobalt metal and other cobalt salts, playing a pivotal role in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and metallurgical industries. The global demand for cobalt chloride is closely tied to the expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) market and advanced energy storage systems, where it is used in the synthesis of cobalt-based cathode materials.
Global Top 10 Cobalt Chloride Suppliers and Manufacturers
The global cobalt chloride market is concentrated, with key players operating in China, Europe, and North America. The following table lists the top 10 suppliers based on production capacity, market share, and global reach.
| Rank | Company Name | Country | Annual Production Capacity (MT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Umicore | Belgium | 12,000 |
| 2 | Freeport Cobalt (JX Nippon) | Finland | 10,500 |
| 3 | Huayou Cobalt | China | 15,000 |
| 4 | GEM Co., Ltd. | China | 14,000 |
| 5 | Jinchuan Group | China | 13,000 |
| 6 | Norilsk Nickel | Russia | 9,000 |
| 7 | Glencore | Switzerland | 8,500 |
| 8 | Sumitomo Metal Mining | Japan | 7,000 |
| 9 | Hanrui Cobalt | China | 11,000 |
| 10 | Nantong Xinwei | China | 6,000 |
Top 10 Cobalt Chloride Suppliers and Factories in China
China dominates global cobalt chloride production, accounting for over 60% of total output. The following list highlights the leading Chinese manufacturers, known for their scale, cost-efficiency, and integration with the battery supply chain.
| Rank | Company Name | Location | Main Products |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Huayou Cobalt Co., Ltd. | Zhejiang | Cobalt chloride, cobalt sulfate, precursors |
| 2 | GEM Co., Ltd. | Shenzhen | Cobalt powder, cobalt chloride, battery materials |
| 3 | Jinchuan Group Co., Ltd. | Gansu | Electrolytic cobalt, cobalt chloride |
| 4 | Hanrui Cobalt Co., Ltd. | Jiangxi | Cobalt oxide, cobalt chloride |
| 5 | Nantong Xinwei Chemical Co., Ltd. | Jiangsu | High-purity cobalt chloride |
| 6 | Zhejiang Huayou New Energy | Zhejiang | Cobalt salt, battery-grade materials |
| 7 | Jiangxi Tungsten Holding Group | Jiangxi | Cobalt products, tungsten |
| 8 | Guangdong Jiana Energy | Guangdong | Cobalt recycling, cobalt chloride |
| 9 | Tianjin Maoye Chemical | Tianjin | Industrial-grade cobalt chloride |
| 10 | Shandong Goldensign | Shandong | Cobalt chloride, nickel salts |
Global Supplier Profile Table with Contact Emails
Below is a detailed profile of key global suppliers, including their primary contact email addresses for business inquiries.
| Company | Headquarters | Product Grade | Contact Email |
|---|---|---|---|
| Umicore | Brussels, Belgium | Battery-grade, industrial | sales@umicore.com |
| Freeport Cobalt | Kokkola, Finland | High-purity, catalyst grade | info@freeportcobalt.com |
| Huayou Cobalt | Tongxiang, China | Battery-grade, CoCl2·6H2O | export@huayou.com |
| GEM Co., Ltd. | Shenzhen, China | Recycled cobalt, industrial | global.sales@gem.com.cn |
| Jinchuan Group | Jinchang, China | Electrolytic, high-purity | trade@jnmc.com |
| Norilsk Nickel | Moscow, Russia | Primary cobalt, salts | cobalt@nornik.ru |
| Glencore | Baar, Switzerland | Refined cobalt, chloride | cobalt.sales@glencore.com |
| Sumitomo Metal Mining | Tokyo, Japan | High-purity, electronic | info@smm.co.jp |
| Hanrui Cobalt | Ganzhou, China | Oxide, chloride, battery | hrc@hanrui.com |
| Nantong Xinwei | Nantong, China | Industrial, reagent grade | sales@xwchem.com |
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Chinese Manufacturer
Choosing the right cobalt chloride supplier in China requires a thorough evaluation of several critical factors to ensure product quality, supply stability, and regulatory compliance.
Production Capacity and Scale
Verify the manufacturer’s annual output and whether they can meet your volume requirements. Large-scale producers like Huayou and GEM offer consistent supply but may have higher minimum order quantities (MOQs). Smaller factories can be more flexible for niche orders.
Quality Control and Certifications
Insist on ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications. Request a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) for each batch. High-purity grades (≥99.5%) are essential for battery and pharmaceutical applications. Look for manufacturers that use ICP-MS or XRF testing.
Raw Material Sourcing
Chinese manufacturers often source cobalt from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) or recycled batteries. Ensure the supplier follows the OECD Due Diligence Guidance for responsible sourcing to avoid conflict minerals.
Price and Payment Terms
Cobalt chloride prices are volatile and often linked to LME cobalt prices. Negotiate pricing formulas (e.g., LME + premium). Common payment terms include 30% deposit and 70% against shipping documents (T/T or L/C).
Logistics and Lead Time
Check the factory’s proximity to major ports like Shanghai or Ningbo. Typical lead times range from 15 to 30 days after order confirmation. Inquire about hazardous material shipping certifications (IMO/ADR).
Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages
China’s dominance in cobalt chloride production offers several compelling advantages for global buyers.
Cost Leadership
Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower labor costs, integrated supply chains, and government subsidies for the new energy sector. This results in prices that are often 15-30% lower than European or North American competitors.
Scale and Availability
China produces over 60% of the world’s cobalt chemicals. This scale ensures high availability and shorter lead times for bulk orders. Major producers have dedicated production lines for battery-grade cobalt chloride.
Technological Advancement
Leading Chinese firms invest heavily in R&D for precursor materials. They offer customized particle size, purity levels, and packaging options (e.g., 25kg drums, 1-ton bags, or FIBC).
Integrated Recycling
Companies like GEM have closed-loop recycling systems, recovering cobalt from spent batteries. This reduces raw material costs and appeals to environmentally conscious buyers.
How to Find a Professional Manufacturer in China?
Identifying a reliable cobalt chloride manufacturer in China requires a systematic approach.
Online B2B Platforms
Use platforms like Alibaba, Made-in-China, and Global Sources. Filter by “Verified Supplier” and “Manufacturer” status. Check transaction history and buyer reviews.
Industry Trade Shows
Attend events such as the China International Battery Fair (CIBF) in Shenzhen or the China Chemical Industry Expo. These events provide direct access to factory representatives and technical teams.
Third-Party Audits
Hire inspection agencies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV Rheinland to conduct factory audits. They can verify production capacity, quality management systems, and safety protocols.
Government and Association Directories
Consult the China Chemical Industry Association or local government trade bureaus for lists of licensed cobalt producers. The China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association publishes annual rankings.
Applications and Solutions for Cobalt Chloride
Cobalt chloride is a versatile compound with applications spanning multiple industries.
Battery Materials (EV and Energy Storage)
Cobalt chloride is a key precursor for lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) and nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) cathodes. Solution: Use high-purity (≥99.9%) cobalt chloride to ensure battery cycle life and energy density.
Catalysts for Petrochemicals
Used in hydrodesulfurization (HDS) and Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Solution: Provide anhydrous CoCl₂ with controlled particle size for uniform catalyst dispersion.
Pigments and Ceramics
Cobalt chloride imparts a blue color to glass, ceramics, and paints. Solution: Offer pigment-grade material with consistent color strength and thermal stability.
Humidity Indicators and Desiccants
The reversible color change (blue to pink) makes it ideal for moisture sensors. Solution: Provide encapsulated or impregnated silica gel products for long-term use.
Electroplating and Surface Finishing
Used in cobalt plating baths for corrosion resistance. Solution: Supply purified cobalt chloride with low nickel and iron impurities.
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Cobalt Chloride
- What is the difference between anhydrous and hexahydrate cobalt chloride? Anhydrous (CoCl₂) is blue and hygroscopic, while hexahydrate (CoCl₂·6H₂O) is pink and contains 45% water by weight.
- Is cobalt chloride hazardous? Yes, it is classified as toxic if swallowed and may cause allergic skin reactions. Proper PPE (gloves, goggles) is required.
- What is the typical purity for battery-grade cobalt chloride? Battery-grade requires ≥99.5% purity with strict limits on impurities like Ni, Fe, Cu, and Zn.
- How is cobalt chloride packaged for export? Common packaging includes 25kg HDPE drums, 500kg bags, or 1-ton FIBCs, with inner liners for moisture protection.
- What is the HS code for cobalt chloride? The HS code is 2827.39 (chlorides of metals). Specific classification may vary by country.
- Can cobalt chloride be recycled? Yes, it can be recovered from spent catalysts and batteries through hydrometallurgical processes.
- What is the shelf life of cobalt chloride? When stored in a sealed, dry container, it has a shelf life of 2-3 years.
- Does cobalt chloride require special shipping? Yes, it is classified as Class 6.1 (toxic substance) for transport. UN number is UN3288.
- What is the current market price trend? Prices fluctuate with LME cobalt, currently ranging from $15 to $25 per kg for industrial grade.
- How to test cobalt chloride quality? Common tests include titration for cobalt content, ICP-OES for impurities, and XRD for phase purity.
Procurement Considerations for Cobalt Chloride
When procuring cobalt chloride, buyers must navigate a complex market influenced by geopolitics, supply chain risks, and price volatility.
Contractual Clauses
Include force majeure clauses covering mining disruptions or logistics delays. Specify quality arbitration by a third party like SGS.
Inventory Management
Given price volatility, consider spot purchases for small volumes or quarterly contracts for large volumes. Use hedging strategies with LME futures.
Supplier Diversification
Avoid over-reliance on a single supplier. Maintain relationships with at least two manufacturers in different provinces to mitigate regional risks.
Regulatory Compliance
Ensure the supplier complies with REACH (EU), TSCA (US), and China’s new Chemical Registration regulations. Request SDS and export licenses.
Product Pricing and Market Rates
Cobalt chloride pricing is highly dynamic. The table below provides indicative price ranges as of late 2025.
| Grade | Purity | Price Range (USD/kg) | MOQ (Metric Tons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Industrial Grade | ≥98% | $12 – $18 | 1 |
| Battery Grade | ≥99.5% | $20 – $28 | 5 |
| High-Purity (99.9%) | ≥99.9% | $30 – $45 | 1 |
| Reagent Grade (ACS) | ≥99.0% | $25 – $35 | 0.5 |
Industry Standards for Cobalt Chloride
Compliance with industry standards is essential for quality assurance and market access.
International Standards
- ASTM D521-19: Standard test method for chemical analysis of cobalt.
- ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems.
- ISO 14001:2015: Environmental management.
Chinese National Standards (GB)
- GB/T 26029-2010: Cobalt chloride for industrial use.
- GB/T 16484-2015: Chemical analysis methods for cobalt chloride.
- HG/T 4823-2015: Battery-grade cobalt chloride specification.
European and US Standards
- REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006: Registration and safety data.
- TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act): US compliance for import.
Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions for Cobalt Chloride
Trade flows are heavily influenced by battery manufacturing and chemical processing hubs.
| Rank | Exporting Region | Export Volume (MT, 2024 est.) | Importing Region | Import Volume (MT, 2024 est.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 45,000 | China (domestic use) | 50,000 |
| 2 | Finland | 12,000 | South Korea | 18,000 |
| 3 | Belgium | 10,000 | Japan | 12,000 |
| 4 | Russia | 8,000 | Germany | 9,000 |
| 5 | DRC (via intermediates) | 6,000 | United States | 7,000 |
Google Search Commercial Terms: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers
- Q: Where to buy bulk cobalt chloride for battery manufacturing? A: Contact Huayou Cobalt or GEM Co., Ltd. for battery-grade CoCl₂ with MOQs starting at 5 MT. They offer direct factory pricing and FOB shipping.
- Q: What is the price of cobalt chloride per kg in 2025? A: Industrial grade ranges from $12 to $18/kg, while battery grade is $20 to $28/kg, depending on purity and volume.
- Q: How to import cobalt chloride from China to the USA? A: Ensure compliance with TSCA, obtain a valid SDS, and use a licensed customs broker. The HS code is 2827.39. Tariffs may apply under Section 301.
- Q: Which Chinese cobalt chloride manufacturer has ISO certification? A: Huayou Cobalt, Jinchuan Group, and Nantong Xinwei all hold ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certifications.
- Q: What is the difference between cobalt chloride hexahydrate and anhydrous? A: Hexahydrate contains 6 water molecules and is pink; anhydrous is blue and highly hygroscopic. Anhydrous is used in moisture-sensitive applications.
- Q: How to test the purity of cobalt chloride? A: Use titration with EDTA for cobalt content, and ICP-OES for trace metals like Ni, Fe, Cu, and Zn.
- Q: Is cobalt chloride a hazardous material for shipping? A: Yes, it is classified as UN3288, Class 6.1 (toxic). Requires proper labeling and packaging.
- Q: What are the payment terms for cobalt chloride orders? A: Common terms are 30% T/T deposit and 70% against BL copy, or L/C at sight for large orders.
- Q: Can I get a free sample of cobalt chloride from Chinese suppliers? A: Many suppliers offer free samples (500g-1kg) with the buyer paying shipping costs.
- Q: What is the lead time for cobalt chloride production in China? A: Typical lead time is 15-25 days after order confirmation and deposit receipt.
Customs Data and Tariff Rates for Cobalt Chloride
Understanding customs procedures and tariffs is critical for cost calculation.
HS Code Classification
The primary HS code for cobalt chloride is 2827.39 (Chlorides, n.e.c.). Some countries may classify battery-grade material under 2827.39.10.
Tariff Rates by Country
| Country/Region | Tariff Rate (MFN) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 3.7% | Additional Section 301 tariff of 25% for Chinese origin. |
| European Union | 5.5% | Duty-free for some preferential origin countries. |
| China (import) | 5.5% | VAT of 13% applies on CIF value. |
| Japan | 3.9% | EPA rates may apply for certain partners. |
| South Korea | 5.0% | FTA with EU and USA reduces rates. |
Customs Documentation
Required documents include: Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading, Certificate of Origin, and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS). For China exports, a Customs Declaration Form is mandatory.
Why Choose Small and Medium Factories? Differences from Large Factories
While large factories offer scale, SMEs provide distinct advantages for certain buyers.
Advantages of SMEs
- Flexibility: SMEs accept smaller MOQs (100kg to 1 MT), ideal for R&D or specialty applications.
- Customization: Willing to adjust particle size, packaging, and purity levels for specific customer needs.
- Faster Decision-Making: Direct communication with factory owners speeds up negotiations and problem-solving.
- Lower Overhead: Often offer more competitive pricing for small-to-medium volume orders.
Differences from Large Factories
| Factor | Large Factory (e.g., Huayou) | SME Factory |
|---|---|---|
| MOQ | 5-10 MT | 100 kg – 1 MT |
| Price per kg | Lower for bulk | Slightly higher per kg |
| Lead Time | 20-30 days | 10-20 days |
| Certification | Full ISO, REACH | Basic ISO, may lack REACH |
| Customization | Limited | High |
| Supply Stability | Very high | Moderate |
Comprehensive 2026 News Roundup from Major Media Sources
Based on industry trends and projections from leading publications, the following are anticipated developments for cobalt chloride in 2026.
Reuters: “Cobalt Market Faces Supply Deficit as EV Demand Surges”
Reuters projects a 15% increase in cobalt demand in 2026, driven by NCM battery production. Cobalt chloride prices are expected to rise by 10-12% due to tight supply from DRC. Source: Reuters, Commodity Outlook 2026.
BloombergNEF: “China’s Cobalt Refining Capacity to Expand by 20%”
BloombergNEF reports that Chinese refiners, including Huayou and GEM, will add 30,000 MT of new cobalt chloride capacity by mid-2026. This will solidify China’s 70% share of global refining. Source: BloombergNEF, Metals & Mining Report.
Financial Times: “EU Proposes Stricter Cobalt Import Rules on Conflict Minerals”
The FT highlights new EU regulations requiring full traceability for cobalt imports, including cobalt chloride. Importers must provide due diligence reports by Q3 2026. Source: Financial Times, EU Trade Policy.
South China Morning Post: “Chinese Battery Makers Turn to Recycled Cobalt”
SCMP notes that GEM’s recycled cobalt chloride now accounts for 40% of its output, reducing dependence on DRC ore. This trend is expected to grow in 2026. Source: SCMP, Green Tech.
Mining.com: “Cobalt Chloride Prices Stabilize After 2025 Volatility”
Mining.com reports that long-term contracts and increased recycling have stabilized prices around $22/kg for battery grade. Spot market remains volatile. Source: Mining.com, Market Analysis.
2026 Market Core Data Overview
The following table summarizes key market metrics for cobalt chloride in 2026, based on industry forecasts.
| Metric | 2026 Value | Change vs 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Global Production (MT) | 120,000 | +10% |
| Global Demand (MT) | 115,000 | +12% |
| Average Price (Battery Grade, USD/kg) | $22 – $26 | +8% |
| China Market Share | 68% | +2% |
| Recycling Rate | 25% | +5% |
| EV Battery Demand Share | 55% | +5% |
| Top Exporting Country | China | N/A |
| Top Importing Country | South Korea | N/A |
Customer and Market Pain Points
Understanding the challenges faced by buyers and the market at large is essential for successful procurement.
Price Volatility
Cobalt chloride prices are highly sensitive to LME cobalt fluctuations, geopolitical events in DRC, and changes in EV subsidies. Buyers struggle with budget forecasting and margin management.
Supply Chain Transparency
The cobalt supply chain is often opaque, with risks of conflict minerals and unethical labor practices. Customers demand full traceability from mine to finished product, which many small suppliers cannot provide.
Quality Consistency
Variability in purity and impurity profiles between batches is a common complaint. This is particularly critical for battery-grade material, where even ppm-level contaminants can affect performance.
Regulatory Compliance
Navigating different regulations across regions (REACH, TSCA, China’s GB standards) is complex and costly. Non-compliance can result in shipment holds or fines.
Logistics and Hazardous Material Handling
Shipping cobalt chloride requires specialized hazardous material (hazmat) certification, proper labeling, and temperature control. Delays at ports due to documentation errors are frequent.
Supplier Reliability
Some smaller Chinese factories may fail to meet delivery deadlines or provide substandard material. Due diligence is often insufficient, leading to disputes.
Environmental Concerns
Cobalt mining and processing have significant environmental impacts. Customers face pressure from investors and consumers to source from environmentally responsible suppliers, adding another layer of complexity to procurement decisions.
