Cobalt hydroxide

Introduction to Cobalt Hydroxide: Properties and Applications

Cobalt hydroxide (Co(OH)₂) is an inorganic compound that typically appears as a rose-red or blue-green powder, depending on its hydration state and crystal structure. It is primarily used as a precursor in the production of cobalt salts, catalysts, pigments, and, most critically, in the manufacturing of lithium-ion battery cathode materials such as lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO₂). The compound is valued for its high electrochemical potential and stability, making it indispensable in the energy storage industry. Cobalt hydroxide is also utilized in the ceramics industry for glazes, in the petroleum industry as a hydrotreating catalyst, and in the production of drying agents for paints and varnishes. The global market for cobalt hydroxide is closely tied to the electric vehicle (EV) and consumer electronics sectors, which have driven significant demand growth over the past decade.

Global Top 10 Cobalt Hydroxide Suppliers and Factories

The following ranking is based on production capacity, market share, and global distribution networks as of 2026. These companies dominate the supply chain from mining to refined cobalt hydroxide production.

Rank	Company Name	Country	Estimated Annual Capacity (MT)	Key Products
1	Glencore PLC	Switzerland	45,000	Cobalt hydroxide, cobalt metal
2	China Molybdenum Co., Ltd. (CMOC)	China	38,000	Cobalt hydroxide, copper-cobalt concentrate
3	Umicore	Belgium	30,000	Cobalt hydroxide, battery materials
4	Freeport Cobalt (a joint venture)	Finland	25,000	Cobalt hydroxide, cobalt sulfate
5	Jinchuan Group International Resources Co. Ltd	China	22,000	Cobalt hydroxide, nickel-cobalt products
6	Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd.	Japan	18,000	Cobalt hydroxide, battery cathode materials
7	Eurasian Resources Group (ERG)	Kazakhstan	16,000	Cobalt hydroxide, copper-cobalt alloy
8	Sherritt International Corporation	Canada	12,000	Cobalt hydroxide, nickel-cobalt mixed sulfide
9	GEM Co., Ltd.	China	10,000	Cobalt hydroxide, recycled cobalt materials
10	Norilsk Nickel (Nornickel)	Russia	8,000	Cobalt hydroxide, nickel-cobalt concentrate

Top 10 Cobalt Hydroxide Suppliers and Factories in China

China is the world’s largest producer and consumer of cobalt hydroxide, driven by its dominant position in lithium-ion battery manufacturing. The following list highlights the leading Chinese manufacturers.

Rank	Company Name	Location (Province)	Annual Capacity (MT)	Specialization
1	Huayou Cobalt Co., Ltd.	Zhejiang	40,000	Cobalt hydroxide, cathode precursors
2	Zhejiang Galico Cobalt & Nickel Materials Co., Ltd.	Zhejiang	35,000	Cobalt hydroxide, cobalt oxide
3	GEM Co., Ltd.	Guangdong	28,000	Recycled cobalt hydroxide, battery materials
4	Jinchuan Group Co., Ltd.	Gansu	25,000	Cobalt hydroxide, nickel-cobalt products
5	China Molybdenum Co., Ltd. (CMOC)	Henan	22,000	Cobalt hydroxide, copper-cobalt concentrate
6	Hunan Jinwang Cobalt Industry Co., Ltd.	Hunan	18,000	Cobalt hydroxide, cobalt salts
7	Ningbo Shanshan Co., Ltd.	Zhejiang	15,000	Cobalt hydroxide, lithium battery materials
8	Xiamen Tungsten Co., Ltd.	Fujian	12,000	Cobalt hydroxide, tungsten-cobalt products
9	Jiangxi Copper Corporation	Jiangxi	10,000	Cobalt hydroxide, copper-cobalt byproducts
10	Guangdong Guanghua Sci-Tech Co., Ltd.	Guangdong	8,000	Cobalt hydroxide, chemical reagents

Global Supplier and Factory Profile with Contact Emails

Below is a detailed profile of key global suppliers, including verified contact information for procurement inquiries.

Company	Headquarters	Product Grade	Contact Email	Website
Glencore PLC	Baar, Switzerland	Industrial grade, 99% purity	cobalt.sales@glencore.com	www.glencore.com
China Molybdenum Co., Ltd.	Luoyang, China	Battery grade, 99.5% purity	export@chinamoly.com	www.chinamoly.com
Umicore	Brussels, Belgium	High purity, 99.9%	battery.materials@umicore.com	www.umicore.com
Freeport Cobalt	Kokkola, Finland	Standard grade, 98% purity	sales@freeportcobalt.com	www.freeportcobalt.com
Jinchuan Group International	Hong Kong, China	Industrial grade, 99%	info@jinchuan-intl.com	www.jinchuan-intl.com
Sumitomo Metal Mining	Tokyo, Japan	Battery grade, 99.8%	cobalt@smm.co.jp	www.smm.co.jp
Eurasian Resources Group	Luxembourg	Concentrate grade, 30% Co	sales@erg.com	www.erg.com
Sherritt International	Toronto, Canada	Mixed sulfide, 55% Co	cobalt@sherritt.com	www.sherritt.com
GEM Co., Ltd.	Shenzhen, China	Recycled grade, 99%	sales@gem.com.cn	www.gem.com.cn
Norilsk Nickel	Moscow, Russia	Concentrate, 20% Co	cobalt@nornickel.ru	www.nornickel.com

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Chinese Manufacturers

Choosing a reliable cobalt hydroxide manufacturer in China requires careful evaluation of several criteria to ensure product quality, supply stability, and compliance with international standards.

Product Purity and Consistency

Verify that the manufacturer can consistently deliver cobalt hydroxide with the specified purity, typically 99% or higher for battery applications. Request certificates of analysis (COA) for each batch and consider third-party testing through SGS or Bureau Veritas.

Production Capacity and Scalability

Assess the manufacturer’s annual production capacity and their ability to scale up based on your demand. Large factories like Huayou Cobalt can supply thousands of metric tons per month, while smaller plants may offer more flexibility for niche orders.

Environmental and Safety Compliance

Ensure the factory adheres to Chinese environmental regulations and international safety standards such as ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001. Cobalt processing involves hazardous chemicals, so proper waste management and worker safety protocols are critical.

Supply Chain Transparency

Inquire about the source of raw cobalt materials. Ethical sourcing is increasingly important, especially for companies exporting to the EU or US, where due diligence on conflict minerals is required under regulations like the EU Conflict Minerals Regulation.

Pricing and Payment Terms

Chinese manufacturers often offer competitive pricing, but payment terms vary. Standard terms include T/T (telegraphic transfer) with 30% deposit and 70% before shipment, or L/C (letter of credit) for larger orders. Negotiate for better terms based on order volume.

Logistics and Lead Times

Check the factory’s location and proximity to major ports like Shanghai, Ningbo, or Shenzhen. Lead times typically range from 2 to 6 weeks depending on order size and production schedule. Confirm shipping terms (FOB, CIF, or EXW) and insurance coverage.

Why Buy from Chinese Manufacturers? Key Advantages

China offers several distinct advantages for cobalt hydroxide procurement, making it the preferred sourcing destination for many global buyers.

Cost Efficiency

Chinese manufacturers benefit from lower labor costs, economies of scale, and government subsidies for strategic materials like cobalt. This results in prices that are often 15-30% lower than Western or Japanese counterparts.

Integrated Supply Chain

China controls a significant portion of the global cobalt refining capacity. Many manufacturers are vertically integrated, owning mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and processing facilities in China, ensuring stable raw material supply.

Technological Advancements

Chinese companies have invested heavily in R&D for battery materials, leading to innovations in cobalt hydroxide production that improve purity and reduce impurities like nickel and manganese.

Flexible Production

Chinese factories are often more willing to customize product specifications, such as particle size distribution or moisture content, to meet specific customer requirements. Minimum order quantities (MOQs) can also be negotiated lower than in other regions.

Export Infrastructure

China’s well-developed port infrastructure and extensive shipping networks ensure efficient global logistics. Major ports like Shanghai and Ningbo handle large volumes of chemical exports with specialized handling facilities for hazardous materials.

How to Find Professional Manufacturers in China?

Locating a trustworthy cobalt hydroxide manufacturer in China requires a systematic approach. Follow these steps to identify and vet potential suppliers.

Online B2B Platforms

Use platforms like Alibaba.com, Made-in-China.com, and GlobalSources.com to search for verified suppliers. Filter by “Verified Supplier” status and check for trade assurance badges. Review company profiles, certifications, and customer feedback.

Industry Trade Shows

Attend major exhibitions such as the China International Battery Fair (CIBF) in Shenzhen or the China Cobalt Industry Summit in Changsha. These events provide direct access to manufacturers and allow for face-to-face negotiations.

Government and Association Directories

Consult the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association (CNMIA) or local government trade departments for lists of licensed cobalt producers. These sources often provide verified company information and production capacities.

Third-Party Audits

Hire inspection companies like SGS, Bureau Veritas, or TÜV Rheinland to conduct factory audits. These audits assess production capabilities, quality control systems, and compliance with environmental and labor standards.

Sample Testing

Request samples from shortlisted manufacturers and have them tested by an independent laboratory. Compare results for purity, particle size, and impurity levels. A reliable manufacturer will provide samples without significant delay or cost.

Application Scenarios and Solutions

Cobalt hydroxide is used across multiple industries, each with specific requirements and challenges. Below are key applications and tailored solutions.

Lithium-Ion Battery Cathodes

Application: Production of LiCoO₂ for smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. Solution: Use battery-grade cobalt hydroxide with 99.5% minimum purity and controlled particle size (D50 5-10 µm) to ensure uniform cathode coating and high energy density. Partner with manufacturers like Huayou Cobalt for consistent supply.

Catalysts for Petroleum Refining

Application: Hydrodesulfurization (HDS) and hydrotreating catalysts. Solution: Select cobalt hydroxide with high surface area and low sodium content. Suppliers like Jinchuan Group offer customized grades with specific porosity for catalyst support.

Ceramic Pigments and Glazes

Application: Blue and violet pigments for tiles, sanitaryware, and art ceramics. Solution: Use industrial-grade cobalt hydroxide with 98% purity and consistent color strength. Ensure low levels of iron and copper impurities to prevent color distortion.

Drying Agents for Paints and Varnishes

Application: Accelerating the drying process of alkyd resins and oil-based paints. Solution: Cobalt hydroxide is used as a precursor for cobalt naphthenate or cobalt octoate. Manufacturers can supply cobalt hydroxide in solution form for easy incorporation.

Animal Feed Additives

Application: Cobalt is an essential trace element for ruminants. Solution: Use feed-grade cobalt hydroxide with low heavy metal content. Ensure compliance with EU or FDA regulations for maximum allowable cobalt levels in feed.

Frequently Asked Questions (10 Questions)

1. What is the typical purity of commercial cobalt hydroxide? Commercial grades range from 98% to 99.9% purity, with battery grade typically at 99.5% or higher.
2. Is cobalt hydroxide hazardous? Yes, it is classified as a hazardous substance. It can cause skin and eye irritation, and prolonged exposure may lead to respiratory sensitization. Proper PPE is required during handling.
3. What is the packaging for cobalt hydroxide? Standard packaging includes 25 kg or 500 kg jumbo bags, with inner plastic liners to prevent moisture absorption. Custom packaging is available.
4. How is cobalt hydroxide stored? Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from acids and oxidizing agents. Keep containers tightly sealed to avoid contamination.
5. What is the shelf life of cobalt hydroxide? Typically 12 months when stored properly. After this period, retesting for purity and moisture content is recommended.
6. Can cobalt hydroxide be recycled? Yes, it can be recovered from spent lithium-ion batteries through hydrometallurgical processes. Companies like GEM Co., Ltd. specialize in this.
7. What are the main impurities in cobalt hydroxide? Common impurities include nickel, copper, manganese, iron, and sodium. Battery-grade products have strict limits for each.
8. What is the price range for cobalt hydroxide in 2026? Prices fluctuate based on LME cobalt metal prices. As of mid-2026, battery-grade cobalt hydroxide is priced between $15-$22 per kg, depending on purity and volume.
9. Do Chinese manufacturers provide free samples? Many reputable manufacturers offer free samples for evaluation, but the buyer typically pays for shipping. Larger orders may include sample costs in the final price.
10. What certifications should a reliable manufacturer have? Look for ISO 9001 (quality management), ISO 14001 (environmental management), and OHSAS 18001 (occupational health and safety). For battery materials, IATF 16949 is a plus.

Procurement Considerations

Successful procurement of cobalt hydroxide requires attention to legal, logistical, and quality aspects. Key considerations include:

• Contract Terms: Clearly define product specifications, delivery schedule, payment terms, and penalties for non-compliance. Include force majeure clauses.
• Inspection and Testing: Arrange for pre-shipment inspection by a third party. Test for purity, moisture, and particle size distribution upon arrival.
• Shipping and Insurance: Use experienced freight forwarders for hazardous materials. Ensure cargo insurance covers potential damage or loss during transit.
• Regulatory Compliance: Verify that the product meets local regulations in the destination country, including REACH (EU), TSCA (US), or China’s GB standards.
• Payment Security: Use secure payment methods like L/C or escrow services for large transactions. Avoid full upfront payments to unverified suppliers.

Product Quotation

Below is a sample quotation for battery-grade cobalt hydroxide (99.5% purity) from a leading Chinese manufacturer as of Q2 2026. Prices are indicative and subject to change based on market conditions.

Item	Specification	Quantity (MT)	Unit Price (USD/kg)	Total Price (USD)	Lead Time
Battery Grade Cobalt Hydroxide	Co ≥ 63.5%, Ni ≤ 0.1%, Cu ≤ 0.01%, Fe ≤ 0.02%	20	$18.50	$370,000	4 weeks
Industrial Grade Cobalt Hydroxide	Co ≥ 61%, Ni ≤ 0.5%, Cu ≤ 0.05%	50	$15.20	$760,000	3 weeks
High Purity Cobalt Hydroxide	Co ≥ 64%, Ni ≤ 0.05%, Cu ≤ 0.005%	10	$22.00	$220,000	5 weeks

Note: Prices are FOB Shanghai. Shipping costs, insurance, and customs duties are not included. Payment terms: 30% T/T deposit, 70% against copy of shipping documents.

Industry Standards

Cobalt hydroxide must comply with various national and international standards to ensure quality and safety. Key standards include:

• GB/T 26027-2010 (China): Specifies requirements for cobalt hydroxide used in batteries and chemicals, including purity, impurity limits, and test methods.
• ISO 9001:2015: Quality management systems for manufacturing processes.
• REACH Regulation (EU): Registration, evaluation, authorization, and restriction of chemicals. Cobalt hydroxide is subject to strict reporting requirements.
• ASTM D3663-20: Standard test method for surface area of catalysts and catalyst carriers, relevant for cobalt hydroxide used in catalytic applications.
• IATF 16949: Automotive quality management standard, required for suppliers to the EV battery industry.

Top 5 Global Import and Export Regions

The cobalt hydroxide trade is concentrated in a few key regions. Below are the top 5 importers and exporters based on 2025 trade data.

Rank	Exporting Region	Export Volume (MT)	Key Destinations
1	China	120,000	South Korea, Japan, USA, Germany
2	Democratic Republic of Congo	85,000	China, Zambia, South Africa
3	Finland	25,000	Germany, Sweden, Netherlands
4	Canada	18,000	USA, Belgium, Norway
5	Russia	12,000	China, Kazakhstan, Turkey

Rank	Importing Region	Import Volume (MT)	Main Sources
1	China	90,000	DRC, Russia, Finland
2	South Korea	40,000	China, Finland, Canada
3	Japan	30,000	China, Finland, Canada
4	Germany	20,000	Finland, China, Canada
5	USA	15,000	Canada, Finland, China

Google Search Commercial Keywords: 10 FAQ Questions and Answers

1. What is the current price of cobalt hydroxide per kg? As of 2026, battery-grade cobalt hydroxide prices range from $15 to $22 per kg, depending on purity and order volume. Check LME cobalt prices for real-time updates.
2. Where can I buy high-purity cobalt hydroxide for battery manufacturing? Leading suppliers include Huayou Cobalt (China), Umicore (Belgium), and Sumitomo Metal Mining (Japan). These companies offer 99.5%+ purity grades suitable for LiCoO₂ production.
3. What are the shipping costs for cobalt hydroxide from China to Europe? Shipping costs vary by container size and route. A 20-foot container (approx. 20 MT) from Shanghai to Rotterdam costs around $2,500-$4,000, excluding insurance and customs.
4. How do I verify the quality of cobalt hydroxide from a Chinese supplier? Request a certificate of analysis (COA) and arrange for third-party testing through SGS or Bureau Veritas. Check for impurities like Ni, Cu, and Fe.
5. What is the minimum order quantity (MOQ) for cobalt hydroxide? MOQs vary by supplier. Large manufacturers typically require 5-10 MT, while smaller factories may accept 1-2 MT for standard grades.
6. Are there any tariffs on importing cobalt hydroxide into the US? Yes, cobalt hydroxide imports into the US are subject to a 3.7% ad valorem duty under HTS code 2822.00. Additional Section 301 tariffs may apply for Chinese-origin goods.
7. What is the difference between battery-grade and industrial-grade cobalt hydroxide? Battery-grade has higher purity (≥99.5%) and stricter impurity limits, while industrial-grade (98-99%) is used for pigments, catalysts, and ceramics.
8. Can I get a sample of cobalt hydroxide before placing a bulk order? Yes, most reputable suppliers offer free samples (500g-1kg) for evaluation. You pay for shipping, which is typically $50-$100 via courier.
9. What are the payment terms for cobalt hydroxide from Chinese suppliers? Common terms are 30% deposit with T/T and 70% balance before shipment, or L/C at sight. For established relationships, net 30 or net 60 days may be negotiable.
10. How long does it take to produce and ship cobalt hydroxide from China? Production lead time is 2-4 weeks for standard orders. Shipping by sea takes 4-6 weeks to Europe and 3-4 weeks to the US. Total delivery time is typically 6-10 weeks.

Customs Data and Tariff Rates

Cobalt hydroxide is classified under HS code 2822.00 (Cobalt oxides and hydroxides). Below are the tariff rates for key importing countries as of 2026.

Country	HS Code	Duty Rate	Additional Notes
United States	2822.00.0000	3.7% ad valorem	Section 301 tariffs: 7.5% for Chinese origin (if applicable)
European Union	2822.00.00	5.5% ad valorem	Anti-dumping duties may apply for certain Chinese suppliers
South Korea	2822.00.0000	0% (FTA with China)	Requires certificate of origin under China-Korea FTA
Japan	2822.00.000	3.9% ad valorem	Reduced rate under WTO tariff quota
India	2822.00.00	7.5% ad valorem	Additional GST of 18% applicable

Note: Tariff rates are subject to change based on trade agreements and geopolitical developments. Always verify with a customs broker before shipping.

Why Choose Small and Medium-Sized Factories? Differences from Large Factories

Small and medium-sized factories (SMEs) offer distinct advantages for certain buyers, while large factories excel in other areas. Understanding the differences helps in supplier selection.

Advantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

• Flexibility: SMEs are more willing to customize products, accept smaller MOQs (1-5 MT), and adjust production schedules to meet urgent orders.
• Personalized Service: Direct communication with factory owners or managers leads to faster decision-making and problem resolution.
• Competitive Pricing for Small Volumes: For orders under 10 MT, SMEs often offer better prices than large factories that have higher overhead costs.
• Niche Expertise: Some SMEs specialize in specific grades, such as high-purity cobalt hydroxide for research or specialty catalysts.

Disadvantages of Small and Medium-Sized Factories

• Limited Capacity: SMEs may struggle to fulfill large orders (50+ MT) within tight deadlines.
• Inconsistent Quality: Quality control systems may be less robust compared to large factories with dedicated QA teams.
• Financial Stability: SMEs may have less financial resilience, posing risks for long-term contracts.

Advantages of Large Factories

• High Capacity: Large factories like Huayou Cobalt can produce 40,000+ MT annually, ensuring supply for bulk orders.
• Consistent Quality: Advanced quality control and automation result in uniform product specifications.
• Global Reach: Established logistics networks and international certifications simplify export compliance.
• Financial Strength: Large companies offer better payment terms and are more reliable for long-term partnerships.

Disadvantages of Large Factories

• High MOQs: Minimum orders are typically 10-20 MT, unsuitable for small buyers.
• Less Flexibility: Standardized processes limit customization and quick turnaround times.
• Higher Prices for Small Orders: Large factories may charge premium prices for orders below their standard volume.

Comprehensive Media Summary: 2026 News on Cobalt Hydroxide

Based on reports from major industry media and financial outlets, the following are key developments in the cobalt hydroxide market for 2026.

• January 2026: Huayou Cobalt announced a $500 million expansion of its cobalt hydroxide refining capacity in Zhejiang Province, targeting an additional 20,000 MT per year by Q4 2026. (Source: Reuters, January 15, 2026)
• March 2026: The European Union imposed anti-dumping duties of 12-18% on cobalt hydroxide imports from three Chinese manufacturers, citing unfair pricing practices. (Source: Financial Times, March 8, 2026)
• May 2026: Glencore signed a five-year supply agreement with a major South Korean battery manufacturer for 30,000 MT of cobalt hydroxide annually, sourced from its Mutanda mine in the DRC. (Source: Bloomberg, May 22, 2026)
• July 2026: Researchers at Tsinghua University developed a new hydrometallurgical process that reduces cobalt hydroxide production costs by 15% while improving purity to 99.95%. (Source: Nature Materials, July 10, 2026)
• September 2026: The Democratic Republic of Congo announced a new export tax of 10% on cobalt hydroxide to encourage local processing. This is expected to impact global supply chains. (Source: Mining Journal, September 5, 2026)
• November 2026: China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released new standards for battery-grade cobalt hydroxide, tightening impurity limits for nickel and manganese. (Source: China Daily, November 18, 2026)

2026 Market Core Data Overview

Key statistics for the global cobalt hydroxide market in 2026, compiled from industry reports and trade data.

Metric	Value	Source
Global Production Volume	350,000 MT	CRU Group, 2026
China’s Share of Production	65% (227,500 MT)	CNMIA, 2026
Average Price (Battery Grade)	$18.50/kg	Fastmarkets, Q2 2026
Market Size (Value)	$6.5 billion	Grand View Research, 2026
Demand Growth Rate (YoY)	8.5%	Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, 2026
Top Application: Batteries	72% of total demand	Roskill, 2026
Recycling Rate	22% of global supply	Circular Energy Storage, 2026
Key Importing Region	Asia-Pacific (60% of imports)	UN Comtrade, 2025 data

Customer and Market Pain Points

Buyers and end-users of cobalt hydroxide face several challenges that impact procurement and usage decisions.

Price Volatility

Cobalt prices are highly volatile, influenced by geopolitical events in the DRC, changes in EV demand, and speculative trading. This makes budgeting difficult for manufacturers. Solution: Use long-term contracts with price adjustment clauses or hedge using futures contracts on the LME.

Supply Chain Disruptions

Political instability in the DRC, which supplies over 70% of the world’s cobalt, poses a constant risk. Strikes, export bans, or infrastructure issues can halt supply. Solution: Diversify suppliers across multiple countries (e.g., Finland, Canada) and maintain safety stock.

Ethical Sourcing Concerns

Artisanal mining in the DRC is often associated with child labor and unsafe working conditions. Western buyers face regulatory pressure to ensure conflict-free sourcing. Solution: Partner with suppliers who have traceability systems and certifications like the Responsible Cobalt Initiative (RCI).

Quality Inconsistency

Variations in purity and impurity levels between batches can affect downstream processes, especially in battery manufacturing where consistency is critical. Solution: Implement stringent incoming quality control (IQC) and require suppliers to provide batch-specific COAs.

Environmental Regulations

Stricter environmental laws in Europe and North America require manufacturers to reduce emissions and waste from cobalt processing. Compliance increases costs. Solution: Work with suppliers who invest in green technologies, such as solvent extraction and recycling.

High Logistics Costs

Shipping hazardous materials like cobalt hydroxide requires specialized containers, documentation, and insurance, adding 10-15% to total procurement costs. Solution: Negotiate consolidated shipping with freight forwarders and optimize order volumes to fill containers.

Limited Supplier Transparency

Some Chinese manufacturers are reluctant to disclose their raw material sources or production processes, making due diligence difficult. Solution: Conduct on-site audits and request detailed supply chain mapping as part of the contract.