Lithium fell to 72,450 CNY/T on September 12, 2025, down 0.55% from the previous day. Over the past month, Lithium's price has fallen 10.56%, and is down 0.07% compared to the same time last year, 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 September 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.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Lithium Carbonate in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

The price of battery-grade lithium carbonate in China surged in 2021 as demand for electric vehicles (EV) rose significantly in the Asian country. The price of *** metric ton of battery-grade lithium carbonate stood at more than ****** U.S. dollars as of December 31, 2021, representing an increase of nearly *** percent compared to prices recorded in January of that year.

The total cost of producing battery grade lithium carbonate by 2025 is expected to amount to approximately ***** and ***** U.S. dollars per ton of lithium carbonate equivalent from brine and spodumene, respectively. For the production of battery grade lithium carbonate from spodumene, the highest costs are forecast to be allocated in the processing of this mineral.

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.

China Market Price: Monthly Avg: Inorganic Chemical Material: Lithium Carbonate (Battery Grade): 99.5% data was reported at 76,500.000 RMB/Ton in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 78,900.000 RMB/Ton for Feb 2025. China Market Price: Monthly Avg: Inorganic Chemical Material: Lithium Carbonate (Battery Grade): 99.5% data is updated monthly, averaging 114,950.000 RMB/Ton from Jun 2020 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 58 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 597,000.000 RMB/Ton in Nov 2022 and a record low of 44,070.000 RMB/Ton in Jun 2020. China Market Price: Monthly Avg: Inorganic Chemical Material: Lithium Carbonate (Battery Grade): 99.5% data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by China National Chemical Economic and Technical Development Centre. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Price – Table CN.PC: China Petroleum & Chemical Industry Association: Petrochemical Price: Inorganic Chemical Material.

The average lithium carbonate import price stood at $9,048 per ton in May 2025, declining by -3.1% against the previous month.

In the first quarter of 2025, the U.S. lithium carbonate market experienced fluctuating dynamics shaped by ongoing global oversupply, restrained demand, and geopolitical uncertainty. Prices exhibited a gradual decline through January and February before stabilizing in March. Production and supply dynamics were shaped by a projected 16% increase in global capacity, driven by expansions in Chile, Australia, and Africa. Chile alone is expected to reach 305,000 tons of lithium output in 2025.

In February 2025, the average lithium carbonate import price amounted to $9,735 per ton, waning by -6.8% against the previous month.

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.

The Lithium Battery Grade Lithium Carbonate Market size was valued at USD 5.98 USD Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 13.90 USD Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 12.8 % during the forecast period. Lithium Battery Grade Lithium Carbonate is a highly pure lithium material that is required for lithium-ion batteries. This is subdivided into industrial and high-purity grades; the latter is more desirable for battery use due to higher purity and therefore lower inter solutes. It is characterized by good electrochemical activity, chemical stability, and maximum energy density, making it suitable for the creation of rechargeable batteries. Some of the areas where it is mainly used are in electric vehicles, portable electronics, and energy storage systems. The quality of lithium carbonate and the lithium material on which it is based directly affects the performance, including effectiveness and longevity, of batteries and thus the lithium-ion batteries in such applications. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing on-road vehicle fleet to Fuel Demand for tinting films. Potential restraints include: Fluctuations in Prices of Crude Oil May Hamper Growth.

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 Carbonate Market size was valued at USD 5 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 18.15 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 15% during the forecasted period 2024 to 2031. Global Lithium Carbonate Market Drivers The market drivers for the Lithium Carbonate Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

• Growing Demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs): The rise in electric vehicle production is a significant driver, as lithium carbonate is a crucial component in lithium-ion batteries. • Energy Storage Systems: The increasing adoption of renewable energy sources (like solar and wind) and the need for efficient energy storage solutions boost demand for lithium batteries.

Global Lithium Carbonate Market Restraints Several factors can act as restraints or challenges for the Lithium Carbonate Market. These may include:

• Environmental Concerns: The extraction and processing of lithium can lead to significant environmental degradation, including water depletion and soil contamination, which may prompt stricter regulations. • Price Volatility: Fluctuations in lithium prices can create uncertainty for manufacturers and investors, making long-term planning difficult.

The global EV battery grade lithium carbonate market is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry and the increasing demand for energy storage solutions. The market's expansion is fueled by government initiatives promoting EV adoption, advancements in battery technology leading to higher energy density and longer lifespan, and a growing awareness of environmental concerns surrounding fossil fuel-powered vehicles. While supply chain constraints and price volatility remain significant challenges, the long-term outlook remains positive, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) significantly exceeding the global average economic growth rate. This growth is expected to continue through 2033, driven by the expanding EV market in both developed and emerging economies. Major players such as SQM, Albemarle, and Livent are actively investing in capacity expansion and technological advancements to meet the increasing demand. However, the market is not without its challenges. Geopolitical factors, resource scarcity, and environmental concerns related to lithium mining and processing present potential obstacles to sustainable growth. Furthermore, the development and adoption of alternative battery technologies could impact the long-term demand for lithium carbonate. Nevertheless, the current market trajectory strongly suggests substantial growth in the coming decade, presenting significant opportunities for industry participants. The market segmentation, though not explicitly provided, likely includes various grades of lithium carbonate based on purity and application, as well as geographic regions reflecting variations in demand and production capacity. Competition is intense among established players and newer entrants, particularly from China, which has become a dominant force in lithium production and processing. The increasing integration of the lithium supply chain, from mining to processing and battery manufacturing, is another important trend shaping the market dynamics. Future growth will be contingent upon addressing the challenges of resource sustainability, responsible mining practices, and securing stable and reliable supply chains. Successful players will be those that can effectively manage these complex factors, while capitalizing on the significant market opportunities presented by the rapid expansion of the EV sector.

The global industrial grade lithium carbonate market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the burgeoning demand from energy storage and battery systems, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $5 billion, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033. This significant expansion is fueled by the increasing adoption of EVs globally, coupled with the growing investments in renewable energy infrastructure and grid-scale energy storage solutions. Furthermore, the demand from the ceramics and specialty glasses industries contributes to overall market growth, albeit at a smaller scale compared to the energy sector. While supply chain constraints and fluctuating lithium prices pose challenges, technological advancements in lithium extraction and processing are mitigating these risks, enhancing the overall market outlook. The market segmentation reveals a strong preference for high-purity lithium carbonate (99.8%), reflecting the stringent quality requirements of the battery industry. The geographical distribution shows a significant concentration in Asia-Pacific, driven by the massive EV production capacity in China and the expanding energy storage markets in other Asian countries. North America and Europe also represent substantial market shares, reflecting their established automotive and renewable energy sectors. Leading players like SQM, Albemarle, and Tianqi Lithium are strategically expanding their production capacities and exploring new lithium sources to meet the escalating global demand. The forecast period (2025-2033) presents significant opportunities for market expansion, driven by the continued growth in the EV market, increasing government support for renewable energy initiatives, and ongoing technological innovations within the lithium industry. However, sustainable sourcing practices and responsible environmental management will be crucial to ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of the lithium carbonate market. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the global industrial grade lithium carbonate market, a crucial component in various high-growth sectors. Valued at approximately $15 billion in 2023, the market is projected to witness significant expansion, driven by the explosive demand from the electric vehicle (EV) battery sector. This report offers a granular view of market dynamics, including production trends, key players, and future growth prospects. Search terms like "lithium carbonate price," "lithium battery market," "lithium carbonate suppliers," and "lithium carbonate applications" are extensively covered.

¿Por qué cambió el precio del carbonato de litio en julio de 2025? El índice de precios del carbonato de litio en los EE.UU. alcanzó un promedio de USD 9.357/MT DDP USGC en el 2º trimestre de 2025, continuando una trayectoria descendente desde principios del año, ya que los productores de baterías redujeron las compras de puntos.

The industrial grade lithium carbonate market, valued at approximately $1009 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven primarily by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) sector and the expanding energy storage systems market. The increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries, crucial for EVs and grid-scale energy storage, is a major catalyst. Growth is further fueled by the increasing adoption of lithium carbonate in ceramics and specialty glass manufacturing, although the EV and energy storage sectors represent the most significant drivers of future expansion. The market is segmented by purity levels (99.0%, 99.3%, 99.8%), with higher purity grades commanding premium prices due to their superior performance in high-tech applications. Geographic growth is expected to be robust across regions, with North America and Asia-Pacific leading the way due to significant EV adoption and established manufacturing bases. However, supply chain constraints and geopolitical factors could potentially act as restraints, influencing price volatility and overall market growth. Competition is intense amongst major players like SQM, Albemarle, and Tianqi Lithium, leading to ongoing innovation and capacity expansion to meet rising demand. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates consistent expansion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6%, indicating a significant market opportunity for industry participants. The market's future trajectory hinges on several factors. Continued technological advancements in battery technology and the sustained growth of the renewable energy sector will significantly impact demand. Government policies promoting electric vehicle adoption and investments in renewable energy infrastructure will also play a crucial role. Conversely, fluctuations in lithium prices, driven by supply chain disruptions or geopolitical events, could impact market growth. Further research into alternative battery chemistries and the development of more sustainable lithium extraction methods could also influence the market's long-term outlook. Strategic partnerships and mergers and acquisitions within the industry are likely to further shape the competitive landscape, driving consolidation and innovation.

In 2023, approx. 69 tons of lithium carbonates were imported into Hungary; growing by 1.7% on 2022.