California Zero-Carbon Mandates Boost China’s Control of Cobalt

Cars recharge their batteries in San Francisco on March 9, 2022. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Commentary

Before California’s government imposed its zero-carbon by 2035 vehicle mandate, it first should have assured itself a secure market in cobalt. Otherwise, the main beneficiary will be the People’s Republic of China, which dominates the market in cobalt, a key mineral needed for batteries.