Lithium fell to 73,100 CNY/T on October 13, 2025, down 0.61% from the previous day. Over the past month, Lithium's price has risen 0.90%, but it is still 1.88% lower than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Lithium - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on October of 2025.

In 2022, the average price of battery-grade lithium carbonate stood at ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton. This figure is by far the highest price for battery-grade lithium carbonate recorded in the period of consideration. For 2024, lithium carbonate price was estimated at ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton. Lithium is a highly reactive soft and silvery-white alkali metal. As the third element in the periodic table, it cannot be found in its pure form in nature. Lithium is the least dense of solid elements and the lightest out of all metals. Lithium and batteries One of lithium’s most well-known end uses is in lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and mostly used in portable electronics and electronic vehicles. In lithium-ion batteries, the lithium ions move from the negative electrode to positive electrode while in use, and the process is reversed while charging. These batteries are highly flammable but are also low-maintenance. They have a high energy density and a low self-discharge. Some drawbacks include the fact that they are expensive to manufacture, and that they require protection circuits to maintain the voltage safely. Lithium-ion batteries are also the single-largest end use of lithium, amounting to an ** percent share of global lithium consumption in 2024. Lithium demand forecasts Looking to the future, lithium demand is forecast to stand at *** million tons by 2025. This growth will be mainly driven by lithium-ion battery demand for electric vehicles. Demand is expected to remain the highest in China, which will consistently account for half of global lithium-ion battery demand.

Why did the Lithium Carbonate Price Change in July 2025? The Lithium Carbonate Price Index in the U.S. averaged USD 9,357/MT DDP USGC in Q2 2025, continuing a downward trajectory from earlier in the year as battery producers curtailed spot purchases.

Lithium's market value is forecast to increase to nearly **** billion U.S. dollars by 2030, due to its increasingly significant importance for various applications such as lithium-ion batteries. In 2023, the global market value of lithium amounted to *** billion U.S. dollars.

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Lithium Market Size 2023-2027

The lithium market size is valued to increase by 1066.47 thousand t, at a CAGR of 25% from 2022 to 2027. Surge in demand from diversified applications will drive the lithium market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 70% growth during the forecast period.
By Application - Batteries segment was valued at USD 148.29 thousand t in 2021
By Product - Carbonate segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2021

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 513.91 thousand t
Market Future Opportunities: USD 1066.47 thousand t
CAGR from 2022 to 2027: 25%

Market Summary

Lithium, a lightweight metal with exceptional electrochemical properties, occupies a pivotal position in the global energy transition. The market's expansion is underpinned by its increasing demand in various sectors, including batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage systems. According to the latest market intelligence, the market was valued at approximately USD 16.7 billion in 2020, signaling a significant growth trajectory. Key drivers fueling this trend include advancements in battery technology, stringent environmental regulations, and the increasing adoption of EVs. Moreover, the expanding renewable energy sector, particularly wind and solar, is expected to contribute substantially to the market's growth.
However, challenges remain, such as the rise in availability of substitute products, including nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) and lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries, and the need for sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. To meet the escalating demand, major players are investing in capacity expansions. For instance, Albemarle Corporation, a leading lithium producer, announced plans to double its production capacity by 2025. Similarly, Ganfeng Lithium, the world's largest lithium producer, aims to boost its output by 50% by 2023. These efforts will not only cater to the growing demand but also ensure a stable supply chain for the industry. In conclusion, the market's evolution is shaped by its diverse applications, growing demand, and investments in capacity expansions.
Despite challenges, the market is poised for continued growth, driven by the global shift towards sustainable energy sources and the increasing adoption of electric vehicles.

What will be the Size of the Lithium Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Lithium Market Segmented ?

The lithium industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD thousand t' for the period 2023-2027, as well as historical data from 2017-2021 for the following segments.

Application

  Batteries
  Ceramics and glass
  Grease
  Polymer
  Others


Product

  Carbonate
  Hydroxide
  Metal
  Chloride
  Others


Source

  Brine
  Hardrock


End-user Industry

  Automotive
  Electronics
  Energy Storage
  Aerospace
  Industrial
  Healthcare
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    KSA
    Oman
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Application Insights

The batteries segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is experiencing continuous evolution, with the batteries segment leading the way due to surging demand from electric vehicles (EVs), consumer electronics, and grid-scale energy storage applications. Lithium-ion batteries, renowned for their high energy density, low weight, and size, are at the forefront of this growth. Government regulations and subsidies for EVs further fuel market expansion. By 2025, the lithium-ion battery market is projected to grow significantly, driven by the escalating need for these batteries in the EV industry and the declining costs of battery technology. Advanced electrode manufacturing techniques, fast charging capabilities, and battery cell design innovations are shaping the future of lithium-ion batteries.

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The Batteries segment was valued at USD 148.29 thousand t in 2017 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Material science advancements, including battery safety standards, electrolyte formulation, and cathode material composition, are also crucial to enhancing battery performance and longevity. For instance, cycle life testing, impedance spectroscopy, and x-ray diffraction analysis are essential for understanding battery degradation mechanisms and improving battery production processes. With a focus on energy storage systems integration, battery pack assembly, and battery management systems, the

Why did the Lithium Metal Price Change in July 2025? The Lithium Metal Price Index in the U.S. declined by 6.8% quarter-over-quarter in Q2 2025, reflecting a volatile and bifurcated market. While April and May were dominated by bearish sentiment tied to global oversupply and soft EV demand

In 2025, the price of ** percent lithium carbonate is projected to be around **** U.S. dollars per kilogram. Growing global lithium demandThere has been a steady increase in battery demand globally, which in turn becomes a strong driver of lithium usage in the future. However, producers have been unable to keep up with the demand. In 2025, global lithium demand is expected to reach ***** metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent for non-rechargeable batteries. The 2018 annual average price of battery-grade lithium carbonate was ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton, increased from the ****** U.S. dollars in the previous year. Lithium demand by applicationLithium has many end use applications aside from batteries. For example, demand for lithium in ceramics is anticipated to reach ****** metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent in 2025. Another example is that the demand for lithium in polymers is expected to grow to ****** metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent by 2025, from the 2018 demand which was ***** metric tons.

In April 2023, the price of Lithium Carbonate was reported at $67,831 per ton (CIF, Japan), a 1.6% increase compared to the previous month.

In 2025, the global demand for lithium is expected to surpass *** million metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent, a growth of ** percent in comparison to 2023. Increases in battery demand for electric vehicles will be a strong driver of lithium consumption in the next decade.

Explore the current trends and dynamics in the global lithium market, driven by rising demand from the electric vehicle sector and influenced by supply chain constraints, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. Discover how these factors impact lithium prices and the ongoing efforts to find sustainable extraction and recycling solutions.

The lithium-ion battery pack price dropped to *** U.S. dollars per kilowatt-hour in 2024, down from over *** dollars per kilowatt-hour a year earlier. Lithium-ion batteries are one of the most efficient energy storage devices worldwide. Over recent years, high-scale production and capital investment into the battery production process have made lithium-ion battery packs cheaper and more efficient. This demonstrates a staggering demand for energy storage worldwide and the increasingly significant role of electric vehicles. Electric vehicle sales Individuals, organizations, and governments aim to reduce their environmental footprint as the awareness about the consequences of climate change becomes more widespread. To contribute to a greener society, they promote the growth of the electric vehicle market to make transportation more sustainable. When it comes to the sales volume of electric vehicles, the trend is staggeringly positive. For instance, global plug-in electric light vehicle (PEV) sales have progressively increased since 2015, surpassing **** million units sold in 2023. Environmental impact of batteries Incorrect disposal of Li-ion batteries can have a devastating impact on the environment, sparking the need for recycling. The global market for lithium-ion battery recycling is expected to reach **** billion U.S. dollars by 2030. This figure compares to around *** billion U.S. dollars in 2023.

After three years of growth, the Nigerien lithium carbonate market decreased by -5.2% to $58K in 2024. Over the period under review, consumption saw a deep setback. Over the period under review, the market hit record highs at $221K in 2014; however, from 2015 to 2024, consumption remained at a lower figure.

Lithium Market Outlook

The global lithium market size was valued at approximately USD 8.3 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 26.9 billion by 2032, exhibiting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.2% during the forecast period. This impressive growth trajectory is primarily driven by the burgeoning demand for lithium-ion batteries, pivotal in propelling the electric vehicle (EV) revolution and portable consumer electronics. The increasing commitment of governments worldwide to transition to renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions is another significant driver, further catalyzing the adoption of lithium-ion technologies across various sectors.

A critical growth factor for the lithium market is the rapid expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) sector. With automotive giants and startups alike accelerating their production of electric models, the demand for lithium, a key component in EV batteries, has surged. Policies aimed at reducing dependency on fossil fuels and incentivizing cleaner transportation options are amplifying this trend. For instance, several countries, including China, the United States, and members of the European Union, have set ambitious targets for EV adoption, fueling substantial investments in lithium extraction and battery production facilities. Additionally, advancements in battery technology that increase energy density and reduce costs are making EVs more accessible to the mass market, thereby increasing lithium demand.

The proliferation of renewable energy initiatives and the associated need for efficient energy storage solutions present another growth vector for the lithium market. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are inherently intermittent, necessitating reliable storage solutions to ensure a stable power supply. Lithium-ion batteries have emerged as the preferred choice due to their high energy density, efficiency, and declining costs. As countries globally push towards achieving sustainable energy goals, the deployment of large-scale lithium-ion battery storage systems is anticipated to expand, further bolstering the market. Additionally, advancements in grid infrastructure that integrate renewable energy sources are expected to contribute significantly to the growing demand for lithium-based solutions.

Technological innovation and increased investment in research and development are further enhancing the growth prospects of the lithium market. Research into alternative lithium extraction methods, such as direct lithium extraction (DLE) from brines, is gaining traction, promising more environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions than traditional mining methods. Moreover, ongoing improvements in battery recycling technologies aim to recover lithium from spent batteries efficiently, reducing dependency on new lithium extraction and supporting circular economy initiatives. These technological advancements are critical for meeting future lithium demand sustainably and mitigating environmental impacts associated with lithium production.

Regionally, Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the lithium market due to its robust manufacturing base and rapidly growing EV industry. The presence of major battery manufacturers and a conducive regulatory environment further bolster this region's growth. In contrast, North America and Europe are experiencing heightened demand driven by policy incentives and technological innovation. Latin America, home to the 'Lithium Triangle'—a region abundant in lithium reserves—is emerging as a key player in the supply chain, while the Middle East & Africa are gradually increasing their market presence with investments in mining and battery manufacturing.

Type Analysis

The lithium market is segmented into various types, including lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, lithium chloride, and others, each playing a distinct role in diverse applications. Lithium carbonate is currently the most widely used type, primarily due to its application in the production of lithium-ion batteries. As the demand for electric vehicles and portable electronic devices continues to grow, the consumption of lithium carbonate is expected to see a significant rise. This compound is also used in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics, where it enhances the physical properties of the materials. Thus, the multifaceted applications of lithium carbonate make it a cornerstone of the lithium market.

Lithium hydroxide is gaining prominence due to its superior performance in high-nickel content lithium-ion batteries, which offer higher energy densities. This type is incre

The global salt lake brine lithium market, currently valued at $3,869 million in 2025, is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -2.4% from 2025 to 2033. This negative CAGR suggests a period of market contraction, potentially driven by factors such as fluctuating lithium prices, increased competition from other lithium sources (e.g., hard rock mining), and geopolitical instability impacting supply chains. However, robust demand from the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) battery sector and the increasing adoption of lithium-ion batteries in various applications continue to exert upward pressure on market growth. The negative CAGR may indicate a temporary correction within a larger growth trajectory, particularly given the long-term projections for increased EV adoption and energy storage solutions globally. The market is segmented by application (batteries, glass and ceramics, medical, lubricants, metallurgy, and others) and type (industrial grade and battery grade), offering varied growth potential across these segments. Battery grade lithium, naturally, holds the largest share owing to its importance in the EV sector, which is the main growth driver. Regional market dynamics vary significantly, with North America and Asia Pacific expected to be major players due to established lithium extraction operations and substantial demand from the automotive and technology sectors. Despite the negative CAGR, specific market segments may still show positive growth. For instance, the medical and specialized industrial applications of lithium could experience modest expansion, even as the overall market adjusts. The ongoing research and development in lithium extraction technologies and the exploration of new salt lake brine resources could also contribute to stabilizing the market in the long term. The competitive landscape is characterized by both established players and emerging companies across regions such as North America, South America, Europe and Asia Pacific, indicating a dynamic and evolving market structure. The success of individual companies hinges on their ability to navigate fluctuating raw material prices, optimize extraction processes, and secure stable supply chains, particularly given the increasing regulatory scrutiny surrounding resource extraction. Strategic partnerships and investments in sustainable extraction practices will be crucial for long-term market success.

Why did the Lithium Hydroxide Price Change in July 2025? The Lithium Hydroxide Spot Price Index in the U.S. dropped by 3.2% in Q2 2025, with prices declining to USD 8,600/MT by the end of June.

The world's mine production of lithium reached a new high of 240,000 metric tons in 2024. This represented a significant increase from 2010, when global lithium production stood at about 28,100 metric tons. Lithium: a useful and elusive element The chemical element lithium has many uses but is most notably used in batteries, mental health treatment, and in pyrotechnics. This silvery-white alkali metal was first isolated in 1855 by Augustus Mattiessen and Robert Bunsen. Lithium is widely present worldwide, but due to its high reactivity it does not naturally occur in its elemental form. Chile and Australia have the largest lithium reserves in the world. Lithium producers There are several key players involved in the lucrative global lithium mining business. Based on market capitalization, Albemarle was the leading lithium producing company in 2024. Looking to the future, lithium producers have a strong outlook, as the total worldwide lithium demand is expected to increase significantly in the coming years.

Lithium Carbonate Spot Trading Platform Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global lithium carbonate spot trading platform market size reached USD 1.86 billion in 2024, reflecting the burgeoning demand for transparent and efficient trading mechanisms in the lithium supply chain. The market is poised to expand at a robust CAGR of 13.4% from 2025 to 2033, with a projected value of USD 5.57 billion by 2033. This surge is primarily fueled by the exponential growth in lithium-ion battery production, rising adoption of electric vehicles, and increasing interest in digital commodity trading platforms.

The primary growth driver for the lithium carbonate spot trading platform market is the accelerating demand for lithium-ion batteries, particularly within the electric vehicle (EV) and renewable energy sectors. As governments worldwide set ambitious targets for carbon neutrality and electrification of transportation, the need for efficient, transparent, and real-time lithium carbonate trading has become paramount. Spot trading platforms offer market participants instant price discovery, reduced transaction times, and improved liquidity, thereby enabling battery manufacturers and other end users to secure critical raw materials more effectively. Furthermore, the volatility in lithium prices and the need for hedging strategies have made real-time trading platforms an essential tool for risk management and supply chain optimization.

Another significant growth factor is the ongoing digital transformation of commodity trading. Traditional lithium trading methods, often characterized by opaque pricing and limited market access, are being supplanted by digital platforms that leverage advanced analytics, blockchain technology, and automated trading algorithms. These innovations are fostering a more competitive and accessible market environment, attracting not only established industry players but also new entrants and financial institutions. As a result, the lithium carbonate spot trading platform market is experiencing rapid technological advancements, with platforms offering sophisticated features such as smart contracts, real-time analytics, and customizable trading interfaces to cater to diverse user requirements.

The increasing complexity of global lithium supply chains is also propelling the adoption of spot trading platforms. With lithium carbonate sourced from various regions and processed through multiple intermediaries, stakeholders require agile and secure platforms to manage transactions, verify provenance, and ensure regulatory compliance. The integration of decentralized and hybrid trading models is addressing these needs by offering enhanced transparency, traceability, and security. This, in turn, is driving greater confidence among buyers and sellers, stimulating market participation, and supporting the overall growth of the lithium carbonate spot trading platform market.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific market dominates due to its leadership in battery manufacturing and electric vehicle production, particularly in China, Japan, and South Korea. North America and Europe are also witnessing substantial growth, propelled by investments in EV infrastructure and renewable energy projects. Latin America, as a major lithium-producing region, is increasingly leveraging spot trading platforms to connect with global buyers, while the Middle East & Africa is gradually emerging as a strategic market for future expansion. The regional outlook underscores the global interdependence of lithium supply chains and the pivotal role of digital trading platforms in facilitating cross-border transactions and fostering market integration.

Platform Type Analysis

The lithium carbonate spot trading platform market is segmented by platform type into centralized platforms, decentralized platforms, and hybrid platforms. Centralized platforms currently hold the largest market share, attributed to their established infrastructure, regulatory oversight, and robust security protocols. These platforms act as trusted intermediaries, providing

Lithium Mining Market size was valued at USD 3.94 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 5.71 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.23% from 2024 to 2031.

Lithium Mining Market Drivers

Lithium mining extracts lithium from the earth’s crust. Lithium is one of the chemical elements with several industrial applications, which is used in the production of sophisticated products for the automotive, electronics, and healthcare industries. Because it can be utilized in numerous lithium-ion batteries, medications, and grease lubricants, among other things. It can be applied to treat a variety of mental illnesses and eating disorders, including bulimia, anorexia, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. In addition, it is utilized in a wide range of microelectronic components and smart devices, including tablets, smartphones, computers, and many more.

The worldwide market for lithium is mostly driven by the rise in the usage of lithium in air treatment technologies. Applications for lithium include air regeneration, dehumidification, and chilling. A common source of air cooling in shopping centers, hospitals, and other institutional buildings is absorption chillers. One application for lithium chloride is dehumidification. Lithium chloride is used in large areas that need to run without humidity in order to absorb moisture. Lithium is becoming more and more in demand for applications involving air regeneration. Safety devices, spacecraft, submarines, miners, and so forth are equipped with systems that extract carbon dioxide from human exhaust. Carbon dioxide is effectively removed through the non-reversible reaction of anhydrous lithium hydroxide with carbon dioxide.

Almost majority of the traction batteries used in EVs and consumer gadgets today are made from lithium. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries find extensive usage in numerous additional applications, ranging from air transportation to energy storage. There are a lot of unknowns regarding how the battery business will impact future lithium demand because battery content changes depending on its active materials mix and because new battery technologies are entering the market. For instance, compared to the currently popular mixes including a graphite anode, a lithium metal anode, which increases energy density in batteries, has roughly double the lithium needs per kilowatt-hour.

The lithium resources market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the burgeoning demand for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems (ESS), and portable electronics. The market's expansion is further fueled by increasing government initiatives promoting renewable energy and stricter emission regulations globally. While rock mines have historically been the dominant source of lithium, brine extraction is gaining traction due to its lower operational costs and higher lithium concentration in some deposits. The market is segmented by application (lithium batteries holding the largest share), type of mine (rock and brine), and geographic region, with Asia-Pacific, particularly China, currently dominating due to its robust EV manufacturing sector and substantial lithium processing capacity. However, North America and South America are witnessing significant growth due to the discovery of new lithium reserves and increasing investments in lithium extraction and processing facilities. Challenges remain, including supply chain disruptions, fluctuating lithium prices, and environmental concerns related to lithium extraction. Despite these challenges, the long-term outlook for the lithium resources market remains highly positive, with projections indicating sustained growth for the foreseeable future. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established multinational companies and emerging players, leading to ongoing innovation and strategic partnerships in resource acquisition, processing, and downstream applications. The forecast period of 2025-2033 will likely see a continued shift towards more sustainable lithium extraction methods and a focus on improving the efficiency and environmental impact of lithium processing. This will necessitate significant investment in research and development, as well as technological advancements to reduce production costs and enhance battery performance. Moreover, the geographical distribution of lithium resources will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the market dynamics, potentially leading to regional variations in price and supply. Growing concerns about resource security and geopolitical risks associated with lithium supply chains are expected to drive efforts towards diversifying lithium sourcing and promoting regional self-sufficiency. The increasing demand from the EV sector, coupled with the development of grid-scale energy storage systems, is projected to propel substantial growth in lithium demand, exceeding the current production capacity and creating significant opportunities for new market entrants.

The Middle East and Africa (MEA) lithium market, while currently smaller than other regions, is poised for significant growth driven by the burgeoning renewable energy sector and increasing electric vehicle (EV) adoption. The region's abundant solar and wind resources are fueling a rapid expansion of energy storage solutions, creating substantial demand for lithium-ion batteries. Governments across MEA are actively investing in infrastructure development and promoting sustainable energy initiatives, further accelerating lithium demand. This positive regulatory environment, coupled with strategic investments in lithium mining and processing, is expected to propel the market's expansion in the coming years. While challenges remain, such as limited established lithium production capacity within the region and reliance on imports, strategic partnerships and technological advancements are mitigating these constraints. The projected 12.93% CAGR suggests a substantial increase in market value, potentially reaching several billion dollars by 2033. Significant growth is anticipated in applications such as battery storage for renewable energy projects, and the automotive sector, as more EVs enter the market. The diverse segments—including battery, grease, and glass/ceramic applications—will also contribute to this growth, with the battery segment likely to remain the dominant driver. The MEA lithium market's segmentation offers diversified growth opportunities. The battery segment is expected to lead, followed by other applications that could include specialized industrial lubricants or niche ceramic applications within the region. Key players are likely to focus on establishing local production facilities to reduce reliance on imports and capitalize on the increasing demand. Furthermore, partnerships with regional governments and investment in research and development could accelerate the pace of market growth. While the current market size for MEA is not explicitly stated, a logical estimation based on global market trends and the provided CAGR suggests a substantial but presently smaller market compared to North America or Asia-Pacific. However, its growth trajectory strongly suggests a significant future contribution to the global lithium market. Recent developments include: April 2022: SQM SA planned to invest USD 900 million in 2022 to increase lithium carbonate and hydroxide production capacity. The company planned to increase lithium carbonate production capacity to 180,000 metric tons annually. Furthermore, the capacity is likely to reach 210,000 tons by early 2023.. Key drivers for this market are: Accelerating Demand for Electric Vehicles, Growing Usage and Demand from the Portable Consumer Electronics; Other Drivers. Potential restraints include: Accelerating Demand for Electric Vehicles, Growing Usage and Demand from the Portable Consumer Electronics; Other Drivers. Notable trends are: Growing Demand from Battery Applications.