THE Cobalt Conference 2006

17/18 May 2006
Le Méridien N'Fis

Boulevard Mohamed VI

Marrakech, Morocco

The recent Cobalt conference in Paris proved highly popular.  Although the final number of delegates was slightly down on the 2004 conference in Toronto, they came from a total of 29 countries, higher than in previous years. This no doubt reflected the increase diversification of the cobalt industry.

The last two years have witnessed a major change in the cobalt market. The most significant event has been the emergence of China as a major player in the cobalt market. Cobalt demand in China and Japan means that there has been a transfer of markets from the USA and Western Europe to Asia.

Without doubt, the massive increase in demand has been in the rechargeable battery sector which is now estimated to consumer over 20% of the total worldwide cobalt demand. However, increased interest has also been noted in hybrid electric vehicles and gas-to-liquid (GTL) technology.

In spite of the increase in demand in the last two years, the cobalt price has steadily declined since March 2004 as production, particularly in China, has risen. Cobalt demand is projected to grow in 2005 and although numerous new production facilities are currently at various stages of development, none is expected to commence production until 2007. Hence, any increase in demand will have to be met from existing producers.

Another major factor about to impact the cobalt market is the introduction of the European Union’s New Chemicals Management Policy. The European Parliament has started formal discussions on the REACH procedure and a vote on it is expected in September 2005. Even if amendments proposed by the metals industry are agreed, the introduction of this legislation in 2007 will have very significant impact on the cobalt industry.

Many of the variables will be resolved during 2005 but out next conference in Marrakech will be an ideal venue to hear expert views and network with participants in the industry.

May is a very busy month in Marrakech and hotel accommodation difficult to secure so we would advise you to book early to avoid disappointment.