In 2022, the average price of battery-grade lithium carbonate stood at 71,000 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 14,000 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 has 3 protons in its nucleus and three electrons around it. Because it is highly reactive, 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 87 percent share of global lithium consumption in 2024. Lithium demand forecasts Looking to the future, lithium demand is forecast to stand at 1.4 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.

During the last quarter of 2024, the lithium carbonate prices in the USA reached 10,842 USD/MT in December. As per the lithium carbonate price chart, due to excess and little demand, the market saw fluctuations. At first, prices stayed constant, but when supply exceeded demand, they began to decline. The market was soon dominated by lower-priced cargoes after a brief price spike brought on by expensive imports.

Explore IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Lithium Carbonate Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of lithium carbonate pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

In 2025, the price of 99% lithium carbonate is projected to be around 7.60 U.S. dollars per kilogram.

Growing global lithium demand

There 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 4,450 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent for non-rechargeable batteries. The 2018 annual average price of battery-grade lithium carbonate was 17,000 U.S. dollars per metric ton, increased from the 15,000 U.S. dollars in the previous year.

Lithium demand by application Lithium has many end use applications aside from batteries. For example, demand for lithium in ceramics is anticipated to reach 51,788 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent in 2025. Another example is that the demand for lithium in polymers is expected to grow to 12,624 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent by 2025, from the 2018 demand which was 9,873 metric tons.

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Lithium Carbonate Market Size 2025-2029

The lithium carbonate market size is forecast to increase by USD 4.98 billion at a CAGR of 14.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries in various applications, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. This trend is driven by the global shift towards sustainable transportation and the depletion of fossil fuel resources. Additionally, recycling initiatives for EV batteries are gaining traction, further boosting the demand for lithium carbonate. However, challenges such as the shortage of EV charging stations and the high production cost of lithium carbonate may hinder market growth. The market analysis report provides an in-depth examination of these trends and challenges, offering valuable insights for stakeholders and investors in the lithium carbonate industry.

What will be the Size of the Lithium Carbonate Market During the Forecast Period?

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Lithium carbonate, a vital component in the pharmaceutical industry, plays a significant role in the treatment of various mood disorders. This inorganic compound is particularly effective in managing mood stabilizing medications for individuals suffering from mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder, mania, hypomania, depression, schizophrenia, and mood swings. Lithium carbonate works by regulating the levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin in the brain. The use of lithium carbonate in the medical field has been extensive due to its efficacy in managing symptoms related to these disorders. However, its application is not without challenges. Patients undergoing treatment may experience side effects such as stomach discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, vertigo, dizziness, muscle weakness, shaking hands, tiredness, thirst, urination, weight changes, metallic taste, saliva, acne, rash, headache, and lithium toxicity.
Moreover, despite these challenges, the demand for lithium carbonate remains high due to its proven therapeutic benefits. Blood tests are essential in monitoring lithium levels in patients to prevent toxicity and ensure effective treatment. The addiction potential of lithium carbonate is minimal compared to other psychiatric medications. Overall, the market for lithium carbonate continues to grow as research and development efforts focus on improving its efficacy and minimizing side effects.

How is this Lithium Carbonate Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The Lithium Carbonate industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Application

  Batteries
  Ceramics and glass
  Cement and aluminum
  Others


Distribution Channel

  Direct sale
  Indirect sale


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

    Brazil

By Application Insights

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

Lithium carbonate is a crucial component in the production of cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries, specifically for electric vehicles (EVs), energy grid storage, and consumer electronics. The higher the lithium content, the better the quality, with 99.9% lithium content being considered EV-grade and 99.5% as standard battery-grade. Lithium carbonate's excellent electrochemical inertness makes it ideal for manufacturing protective cathode layers in lithium-ion batteries. Lithium carbonate-based batteries, such as lithium cobalt oxide, offer stable capacities and high specific energy, making them suitable for use in smartphones, laptops, and digital cameras. These batteries' desirable characteristics contribute to their widespread use in various industries.

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The batteries segment was valued at USD 2.09 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 73% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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Lithium carbonate is a critical raw material for producing lithium-ion batteries, which have gained significant popularity due to their application in electric vehicles (EVs) and renewable energy storage systems. The increasing adoption of EVs, particularly in countries like China and India, is driving the

In 2023, the amount of lithium carbonates imported into India reduced dramatically to 728 tons, shrinking by -59.8% against the year before.

In 2023, the amount of lithium carbonates imported into Australia amounted to 820 tons, growing by 14% on the year before.

In 2025, the global demand for lithium is expected to surpass 1.4 million metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent, a growth of 53 percent in comparison to 2023. Increases in battery demand for electric vehicles will be a strong driver of lithium consumption in the next decade.

In 2023, purchases abroad of lithium carbonates decreased by -48.7% to 2.8K tons for the first time since 2019, thus ending a three-year rising trend.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global technical grade lithium hydroxide market size is USD XX million in 2023 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.10% from 2023 to 2030. Growing Demand for Electric Vehicles to Drive the Market Expansion.

The importance of renewable energy and energy storage grew, particularly in light of worldwide initiatives to minimise greenhouse gas emissions and promote green energy is anticipated to drive the market growth. Spending on technical grade lithium hydroxide for stationary energy storage and electric vehicles has surged. The primary drivers of the market are the increasing demand for technical grade lithium hydroxide used in electric vehicles and the growing popularity of lithium hydroxide NCA cathode-powered power tools.

For instance, in August 2022, Ganfeng Lithium stated that it has partnered with GAC AlON in a long-term strategic cooperation to enhance the development of battery raw materials and the recycling of outdated new electric vehicle ("NEV") batteries.

Source-www.marklines.com/en/top500/catl

Novel and Enhanced Tchnology in Lithium Ion Battery to Propel Market Growth

New and improved lithium-ion battery technology is being developed as battery applications require more power and lower costs. Battery technology developments are critical to meeting consumer demand for portable devices and electric vehicles with greater battery life and faster charging periods. As a result, new materials, manufacturing methods, and battery management systems have been developed to improve the efficiency and performance of technical grade lithium hydroxide.

For instance, in May 2022, According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electric vehicle sales are expected to reach a record high of 4.7 million units in 2021, a 43% increase over the previous year.

Market Restraints of the Technical Grade Lithium Hydroxide Market

The High Expense of Procedure Stemming from the Need for Multiple Stages and the Use of Lime, Which Generates Waste, are Hamper the Market Growth. 

Numerous common reasons of maintenance outages in processing plants that lead to reduced output, increased costs, and downtime, regardless of whether LiOH is derived from carbonate or straight from a spodumene slurry. Erosion frequently serves as a source of contaminants as well. The hardness of crystallised hydroxide is well known to those who have attempted to chip it out of equipment (more on this later). The erosion that occurs when this material is moving quickly through a pipe in the form of a turbulent hot slurry is also noteworthy.

Impact of the COVID-19 on Technical Grade Lithium Hydroxide market

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the technical grade lithium hydroxide market significantly. Lockdowns and mask mandates reduced the demand for lithium hydroxide COVID-19 influenced short-term lithium hydroxide sales. Covid-19 is causing a backlog in the lithium hydroxide supply chain. Overseas markets, primarily Japan and South Korea, bought more over 80% of China's hydroxide output. Overseas consumers are having difficulty obtaining lithium hydroxide due to customs clearance complications caused by the epidemic. Domestic users are also suffering issues as a result of transportation disruptions. They may find it increasingly difficult to obtain the material as converters work to keep their foreign customers well supplied. These effects are exacerbated by the chemical's limited shelf life. Because lithium hydroxide is highly hygroscopic and oxidative, users rarely keep considerable quantities of it on hand. What is Technical Grade Lithium Hydroxide?

Lithium hydroxide is a chemical used in the production of technical grade lithium hydroxide , ceramics, and lubricants. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly employed in electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid energy storage systems. The market is primarily driven by rising demand for technical grade lithium hydroxide in the automotive sector. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly employed in electric vehicles due to their high energy density, extended life, and low self-discharge rates. The automotive industry is experiencing an increase in demand for technical grade lithium hydroxide . Lithium-ion batteries are commonly employed in electric vehicles due to their high energy density, extended life, and low self-discharge rates...

During the second quarter of 2024, the ethylene carbonate (EC) prices in China reached 878 USD/MT in June, due to the increasing product utilization by manufacturers of lithium-ion battery and disruptions in supply. Prices rose 13% from the previous year and 2% from the last quarter, reflecting steady consumption and ongoing supply constraints.

After three years of growth, the Ethiopian market for lithium oxide, hydroxide and carbonates decreased by -5% to $4.6K in 2024. Overall, consumption continues to indicate a relatively flat trend pattern. Lithium oxide, hydroxide and carbonate consumption peaked at $28K in 2016; however, from 2017 to 2024, consumption remained at a lower figure.

In 2024, after seven years of decline, there was significant growth in the Cameroonian lithium carbonate market, when its value increased by 11% to $232. Over the period under review, consumption recorded a relatively flat trend pattern. Lithium carbonate consumption peaked at $1.6K in 2014; however, from 2015 to 2024, consumption failed to regain momentum.

In 2024, the Uruguayan lithium carbonate market decreased by -49.9% to $95K for the first time since 2021, thus ending a two-year rising trend. Overall, consumption recorded resilient growth. Lithium carbonate consumption peaked at $189K in 2023, and then dropped markedly in the following year.

In 2024, the Luxembourg lithium carbonate market decreased by -43% to $1.6K for the first time since 2020, thus ending a three-year rising trend. In general, consumption showed significant growth. Lithium carbonate consumption peaked at $2.8K in 2023, and then declined dramatically in the following year.

Statistics illustrates consumption, production, prices, and trade of Lithium Carbonate in the European Union from 2007 to 2024.

In 2023, the amount of lithium carbonates imported into Canada skyrocketed to 3K tons, increasing by 30% compared with 2022.

In 2024, the Algerian lithium carbonate market decreased by -24.2% to $3.6K for the first time since 2021, thus ending a two-year rising trend. Overall, consumption recorded a strong increase. Lithium carbonate consumption peaked at $4.8K in 2023, and then dropped sharply in the following year.

Statistics illustrates consumption, production, prices, and trade of Lithium Carbonate in Bosnia and Herzegovina from 2007 to 2024.

Learn about the projected growth of the lithium oxide, hydroxide, and carbonates market in Africa over the next decade, driven by increasing demand. Market performance is expected to expand with a CAGR of +0.8% in volume terms and +0.7% in value terms, reaching 4.4K tons and $67M by 2035.

Learn about the increasing demand for lithium oxide, hydroxide, and carbonates in Australia and how it is expected to drive market growth over the next decade. Discover forecasts for market performance, including volume and value projections up to 2035.