Last updated in 2003, the fresh set of principles respond to increased pressure for miners to carry out socially-responsible investments and operations.

Many countries are starting to look inward to meet their own needs as well as broaden their economic portfolio.

As security costs have risen, mining companies that explore for mineral deposits have shut down projects in the most dangerous areas.

The South Korean battery manufacturer will receive up to 21,000 tonnes of cobalt, mostly coming from the Katanga mine in DRC.

The new monopoly could smooth out periodic air-pockets in the supply chain, but the temptation to use its market power to support prices during periods of low-growth demand may prove irresistible.