#Mercuria #Democratic Republic of the Congo #Sustainable Cobalt #EG Company #Kolwezi

Mercuria and EGC Collaboration for Responsible Cobalt Supply Chain

In a significant move towards ethical mining, Entreprise Générale du Cobalt SA (EGC) and Mercuria Energy Trading SA (Mercuria) have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 26, 2026. This agreement is pivotal for the development of a responsible cobalt supply chain centered around the Kasulo mine site located in Kolwezi, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The partnership aspires to establish what is being termed a 'Gold Standard' for responsible artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM). By setting benchmarks for transparency and sustainability, the Kasulo mine is poised to become a global reference point in cobalt production while ensuring ethical sourcing of minerals.

Aiming for High Standards

Under the terms of this collaboration, EGC and Mercuria plan to work closely with local cooperatives, Gécamines (a state-owned mining company), and relevant government bodies to create a comprehensive framework. This will focus on several critical aspects, including:

• - Health and safety improvements
• - Respect for human rights
• - Environmental protection
• - Complete traceability throughout the supply chain

The initiative will align with international standards such as the OECD Due Diligence Guidance and the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, laying the groundwork for a mining sector that not only meets regulatory demands but also exceeds societal expectations.

A Unified Vision

Both companies share a similar vision regarding the professionalization of artisanal mining operations. Kostas Bintas, Head of Metals and Minerals at Mercuria, emphasized that this partnership reflects the company's commitment to developing transparent and responsible supply chains for minerals that are essential to technology and clean energy sectors. The shared aim is to demonstrate that high standards in safety and ethical practices can coexist with reliable mineral production.

EGC’s Chief Executive Officer, Eric Kalala, reaffirmed the importance of this partnership in structuring a responsible artisanal mining sector in the DRC. The collaboration with Mercuria will facilitate increased access to financing, improving working conditions for artisanal miners and fostering the establishment of transparent supply chains that benefit local communities.

Commitment to Community and Sustainability

A strong focus on community engagement and capacity building is central to the initiative. The partnership will offer training and development opportunities to cooperatives, which aims at ensuring long-term sustainable operations. This grassroots approach to mining will be informed by best practices from around the globe, ensuring that the operations are not only profitable but also socially and environmentally conscious.

About EGC

Founded in 2019, the Enterprise Générale du Cobalt (EGC) is a key player in the cobalt supply chain, holding a mandate to manage artisanal cobalt production in the DRC. This company is dedicated to maintaining high standards of social responsibility and environmental sustainability, reflecting a commitment to a progressive mining model.

About Mercuria

Mercuria is recognized as one of the leading independent energy and commodity firms globally. With a strong focus on responsible sourcing and investment strategies, the company is making significant strides towards supporting the energy transition, while ensuring that its operations contribute positively to the communities they operate in.

This partnership exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to responsible mining and highlights the importance of ethical practices in resource extraction, positioning both Mercuria and EGC as leaders in the advancement of sustainable mineral sourcing.