Lithium rose to 94,400 CNY/T on December 2, 2025, up 0.05% from the previous day. Over the past month, Lithium's price has risen 16.54%, and is up 20.64% 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 December of 2025.

In Q3 2025, North America, the Lithium Carbonate Price Index fell by 3.8% quarter-over-quarter, pressured by abundant imports. Check detailed insights for Europe, South America and APAC.

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).

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.

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

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 2023, the amount of lithium carbonates imported into India contracted rapidly to 1.7K tons, shrinking by -36.5% compared with the year before.

China Market Price: Monthly Avg: Inorganic Chemical Material: Lithium Carbonate (Battery Grade): 99.5% data was reported at 75,100.000 RMB/Ton in Oct 2025. This records an increase from the previous number of 73,900.000 RMB/Ton for Sep 2025. China Market Price: Monthly Avg: Inorganic Chemical Material: Lithium Carbonate (Battery Grade): 99.5% data is updated monthly, averaging 454,800.000 RMB/Ton from Jun 2020 (Median) to Oct 2025, with 65 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.

Discover the booming EV Battery Grade Lithium Carbonate market! Explore its projected multi-billion dollar size, impressive CAGR, key players (SQM, Albemarle, Livent), and regional trends driving this essential component of the electric vehicle revolution. Learn about market drivers, restraints, and future forecasts in our comprehensive analysis.

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 average lithium carbonate import price stood at $9,742 per ton in March 2025, reducing by -3.4% 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 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.

Current spot price plus 1-month and 1-year forecasts for Lithium Carbonate (US) as published on ChAI Predict.

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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, driven primarily by the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing and recycling initiatives. The global shift towards sustainable transportation solutions is fueling the demand for lithium carbonate, a key component in the production of lithium-ion batteries. However, the market faces a notable challenge: the shortage of EV charging stations. Despite the growing demand, the limited availability of charging infrastructure poses a significant obstacle to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. This challenge is further compounded by the fact that the production and recycling of lithium-ion batteries require a substantial amount of energy, which in turn necessitates a reliable and efficient charging infrastructure. Companies seeking to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the market must address this challenge by investing in the development and expansion of EV charging networks. Additionally, exploring alternative methods of battery production and recycling, such as those with lower energy requirements, could help mitigate this challenge and ensure a steady supply of lithium carbonate.

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

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleThe market continues to evolve as the demand for advanced energy storage solutions surges across various sectors. Lithium carbonate, a key component in the production of lithium-ion batteries, plays a crucial role in powering electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy systems, and consumer electronics. Battery analytics and diagnostics are increasingly important as industry standards for fast charging and battery efficiency continue to rise. Lithium hydroxide, another lithium compound, is gaining attention for its potential use in next-generation batteries, such as lithium-sulfur and solid-state batteries. Environmental concerns and the need for sustainable mining practices are shaping the lithium industry. Lithium reserves are being explored and developed to meet the growing demand, while lithium-ion battery recycling is gaining traction as a solution for reducing the carbon footprint and minimizing the risk of battery fires. Battery technology advancements, including improvements in battery performance, battery safety, and battery capacity, are driving innovation in the energy storage sector. Lithium-ion battery testing and monitoring are essential to ensure battery life and reliability. Government regulations and ethical sourcing are becoming increasingly important in the lithium industry. Renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, are driving demand for energy storage systems, further fueling the need for lithium carbonate. The battery supply chain is undergoing significant changes as new players enter the market and existing players expand their operations. Battery management systems and battery charging technologies, including wireless charging, are also advancing to meet the evolving needs of the industry. Power tools and consumer electronics are just a few of the many applications for lithium-ion batteries. The ongoing unfolding of market activities and evolving patterns in the market reflect the continuous dynamism and innovation in the battery industry.

How is this Lithium Carbonate Industry segmented?

The lithium carbonate industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. ApplicationBatteriesCeramics and glassCement and aluminumOthersDistribution ChannelDirect saleIndirect saleGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyUKAPACChinaIndiaJapanSouth KoreaSouth AmericaBrazilRest of World (ROW).

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 those used in electric vehicles (EVs), energy grid storage, and consumer electronics. The purity level of lithium carbonate determines its grade; EV-grade lithium carbonate contains 99.9% lithium, while standard battery-grade lithium carbonate has a purity of 99.5%. Lithium carbonate's excellent electrochemical inertness makes it ideal for manufacturing the protective layer of cathodes, ensuring battery efficiency and longevity. The lithium industry focuses on sustainable mining practices to meet the increasing demand for lithium carbonate. Lithium hydroxide, another d

Current spot price plus 1-month and 1-year forecasts for Lithium Carbonate (Europe) as published on ChAI Predict.

¿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.

Discover the explosive growth of the EV battery grade lithium carbonate market. This in-depth analysis reveals key trends, market size projections (2025-2033), major players (SQM, Albemarle, Livent), and regional breakdowns. Learn about the driving forces, challenges, and future opportunities in this crucial sector of the EV revolution.

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