Lithium rose to 78,000 CNY/T on August 12, 2025, up 4.70% from the previous day. Over the past month, Lithium's price has risen 20.65%, and is up 1.96% 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 August 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 2023, approx. 17K tons of lithium carbonates were imported into the United States; picking up by 7.2% on the year before.

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 made lithium-ion battery packs cheaper and more efficient. This demonstrates a staggering demand for energy storage worldwide and could be attributed to the fact that the world is moving towards a renewable energy-based economy where electric vehicles play an increasingly large role. 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 and less polluting. 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 Incorrect disposal of Li-ion batteries can have a devastating environmental 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.

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Lithium Market Size 2023-2027

The lithium market size is forecast to increase by 1066.47 thousand t, at a CAGR of 25% between 2022 and 2027.

The India Solar Power Market is segmented by 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), and 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). This segmentation reflects the market's diversity, driven by rising demand for Batteries and Energy Storage in India and China, increasing use of Carbonate and Hydroxide in Electronics and Automotive, and a mix of Brine and Hardrock sources to meet industrial and regional needs across the APAC region.



The market is experiencing significant growth due to the surge in demand from various applications, including batteries for electric vehicles, ceramics, and glass industries. This demand is driving capacity expansions among key players to meet the increasing market needs. However, the market faces challenges from the rising availability of substitute products, such as nickel-metal hydride and lead-acid batteries, which may impact the adoption rate of lithium-ion batteries. Additionally, the production process of lithium involves complex and energy-intensive procedures, which can increase the overall cost and potentially hinder market penetration.
Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities should focus on improving the efficiency and sustainability of lithium production processes. Meanwhile, those looking to navigate challenges effectively may explore collaborations and partnerships to share resources and expertise, as well as invest in research and development to differentiate their offerings and stay competitive.

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

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2017-2021 and forecasts 2023-2027 - in the full report.
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The market continues to evolve, driven by the expanding applications of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) across various sectors. From electric vehicles (EVs) and electric buses to consumer electronics, electric bicycles, and portable power, the demand for LIBs is on the rise. This continuous growth is influenced by several factors, including advancements in battery technology such as solid-state batteries and battery recycling. The lithium supply chain is undergoing significant changes, with a focus on resource scarcity and environmental impact. Innovations in cathode materials, anode materials, and cell manufacturing are aimed at improving energy density, power output, and battery life.

Thermal management and battery safety standards are also critical considerations, as the industry strives to ensure the reliability and safety of these energy storage solutions. Battery swapping and battery management systems are gaining traction in the market, providing convenient and efficient solutions for charging infrastructure. Renewable energy integration and hydrogen storage are emerging applications for LIBs, further expanding their reach. Moreover, the development of alternative battery technologies, such as lithium-sodium batteries, lithium-air batteries, and flow batteries, is adding to the market's dynamism. Incentives and subsidies are also playing a crucial role in driving the adoption of these energy storage solutions.

The ongoing evolution of the market is marked by a constant pursuit of energy efficiency, power output, and safety standards. The integration of these advancements into battery design and manufacturing processes is shaping the future of the industry.

How is this Lithium Industry 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 pr

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.

Explore the dynamic fluctuations in the lithium market influenced by rising demand for electric vehicles, supply chain constraints, and technological advancements, as stakeholders navigate a landscape marked by volatility and evolving energy solutions.

Lithium ETF stock price, live market quote, shares value, historical data, intraday chart, earnings per share and news.

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

The pandemic hit the main consuming industry (battery manufacturing) hard, lithium supplies on the global market exceeded demand, resulting in a fall in lithium prices.

In the second half of 2020, lithium demand started to recover, buoyed by strong battery sales. Strategic partnerships shaped during the Covid crisis enabled lithium manufacturers to secure stable product supply chains.

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North America Lithium-ion battery Market Size 2024-2028

The North America lithium-ion battery market size is forecast to increase by USD 20.03 billion at a CAGR of 18% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to several key trends. The high adoption of wearable technology and electric vehicles is driving the demand for lithium-ion batteries. Additionally, the decline in lithium-ion battery prices has made them more affordable for consumers. However, the availability of substitute products, such as nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries, poses a challenge to the market.
To stay competitive, market players are focusing on improving the performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness of lithium-ion batteries. As the market continues to evolve, it is essential for businesses to stay informed about the latest trends and challenges to make informed decisions and capitalize on opportunities.

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

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The Lithium-Ion Battery (Li-ion) market in North America is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for energy storage solutions in various sectors. This trend is driven by the shift towards renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and sustainable energy. Energy Management and Grid Storage are key areas where Li-ion batteries are gaining popularity. The integration of renewable energy sources into the power grid requires efficient energy storage solutions to ensure a stable power supply. Li-ion batteries offer high energy density, long cycle life, and excellent power characteristics, making them an ideal choice for grid storage applications.
Additionally, Microgrids and Off-Grid Power Systems are another growing area for Li-ion batteries. These systems are essential for energy security and are particularly useful in remote locations where access to the main power grid is limited. Li-ion batteries provide a reliable and efficient power source for these systems, enabling energy conservation and reducing the carbon footprint. Safety and Performance are critical factors in the Li-ion battery market. Industrial safety regulations and CAFE standards are driving the development of safer battery technologies. Battery Management Systems (BMS) are being used to optimize battery performance, ensure safety, and prolong battery life. Research and development in battery technology are focused on improving battery safety, increasing energy density, and reducing battery degradation.
Moreover, electric Mobility and Material Handling Equipment are significant applications for Li-ion batteries. The increasing adoption of electric vehicles and the shift towards automated material handling systems are driving the demand for portable Li-ion batteries. These batteries offer high energy density, long cycle life, and fast charging capabilities, making them an ideal choice for these applications. Power Distribution and Power Electronics are other areas where Li-ion batteries are being used extensively. The high power density and excellent power characteristics of Li-ion batteries make them suitable for power distribution applications. In power electronics, Li-ion batteries are used for energy storage and power backup, providing a reliable power source for various applications.
In conclusion, Wind Energy and Solar Energy are two major renewable energy sources where Li-ion batteries are being used for energy storage. The intermittent nature of these energy sources requires efficient energy storage solutions to ensure a stable power supply. Li-ion batteries offer high energy density, long cycle life, and excellent power characteristics, making them an ideal choice for renewable energy storage applications. Battery Recycling is another area of focus in the Li-ion battery market. The increasing adoption of Li-ion batteries and the need to reduce the environmental impact of battery disposal are driving the development of battery recycling technologies. These technologies aim to recover valuable materials from used batteries and reduce the carbon footprint of battery production. In conclusion, the market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing demand for energy storage solutions in various sectors. The shift towards renewable energy sources, energy efficiency, and sustainable energy are key drivers of this growth. The focus on safety, performance, and recycling is expected to continue driving the development of Li-ion battery technology in the future.

How is this market segmented and which is the largest segment?

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Type

  Lithium nickel manganese cobalt
  Lithium iron phosphate
  Lithium cobalt oxide
  Ot

In March 2025, the average lithium carbonate import price amounted to $9,742 per ton, reducing by -3.4% against the previous month.

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.

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

In July 2022, the lithium carbonate price per ton amounted to $10,401, declining by -6.2% against the previous month.