Lithium fell to 73,600 CNY/T on September 26, 2025, down 0.20% from the previous day. Over the past month, Lithium's price has fallen 9.79%, and is down 2.52% 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.

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 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.

Explore the dynamic fluctuations in lithium metal prices driven by rising demand for electric vehicles, technological advancements, geopolitical influences, and global supply chain factors. Understand key trends affecting this vital market through a detailed analysis of lithium price charts.

Why did the Lithium Metal Price Change in May 2025? The Lithium Metal Price Index in North American market ended Q1 2025 settling at USD 163,210/MT FOB Boston, demonstrating a moderate increase from Q4 2024.

Explore the factors influencing the rising prices of lithium metal, a key component in electric vehicle batteries and energy storage solutions, driven by demand surges, supply constraints, and geopolitical issues.

154 Global import shipment records of Lithium Metal with prices, volume & current Buyer's suppliers relationships based on actual Global export trade database.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Lithium Metal market size was USD 5.1 billion in 2024 and will expand at the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9% from 2024 to 2031. Market Dynamics of Lithium Metal Market

Key Drivers for Lithium Metal Market

Increasing Demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Energy Storage - Lithium metal is crucial for advancing battery technologies, especially in the context of electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. As global demand for EVs rises, driven by environmental concerns and government incentives, the need for high-performance lithium-metal batteries intensifies. These batteries provide higher energy density compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, enabling longer driving ranges and faster charging times, thus driving adoption in the automotive sector. Similarly, in stationary energy storage, lithium metal's potential to increase energy density and reduce costs supports its role in storing renewable energy and balancing electricity grids.
The increasing industrial applications and aerospace are anticipated to drive the Lithium Metal market's expansion in the years ahead.

Key Restraints for Lithium Metal Market

The issues related to the dendrite formation and potential for thermal runaway hinder the Lithium Metal industry growth.
The market also faces significant difficulties related to high production costs.

Introduction of the Lithium Metal Market

Lithium Metal Market plays a pivotal role in the realm of advanced battery technologies, promising substantial improvements in energy density and performance compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. Lithium metal, known for its high theoretical capacity and low electrode potential, is poised to revolutionize energy storage for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid-scale energy storage solutions. This market encompasses the extraction, refining, and application of lithium metal in various forms, including anodes for next-generation batteries. Despite its potential, the market faces challenges such as safety concerns related to dendrite formation and cost barriers associated with production and scaling. Ongoing research and development efforts focus on mitigating these challenges, aiming to enhance the safety, stability, and cost-effectiveness of lithium metal batteries. As demand for longer-lasting, more efficient energy storage solutions grows, the Lithium Metal Market stands at the forefront of innovation, driving advancements that could reshape the future of global energy storage and electrification initiatives.

The industrial grade lithium metal market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the escalating demand for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems (ESS), and portable electronics. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is estimated to be around 15% between 2025 and 2033, indicating a significant expansion. This growth is fueled by several factors, including government incentives promoting EV adoption, increasing investments in renewable energy infrastructure, and ongoing technological advancements leading to higher energy density and improved battery performance. Major players like Ganfeng Lithium Group, Albemarle, and Livent are strategically expanding their production capacities and exploring innovative lithium extraction techniques to meet the surging demand. However, the market faces challenges like fluctuating lithium prices due to supply chain constraints and environmental concerns related to lithium mining and processing. Despite these restraints, the long-term outlook for the industrial grade lithium metal market remains positive, with continued growth expected across various geographic regions, particularly in Asia, North America, and Europe. The segmentation of the industrial grade lithium metal market primarily focuses on purity levels and applications. Higher purity grades command premium prices and are predominantly used in high-performance batteries for EVs and ESS. Regional disparities in market share are expected, with Asia-Pacific holding a significant share owing to the concentration of battery manufacturing facilities and substantial EV adoption rates. North America and Europe are also experiencing rapid growth due to rising investments in renewable energy and increasing EV sales. Furthermore, the ongoing research and development in lithium extraction technologies, such as direct lithium extraction (DLE), promise to enhance efficiency and sustainability, mitigating some of the current environmental concerns associated with traditional mining methods. The forecast period of 2025-2033 suggests a considerable increase in market value, largely driven by the projected expansion of the EV and ESS sectors.

Explore the growing importance of lithium hydroxide in the EV and electronics sectors, the role of the London Metal Exchange in pricing, and the influence of market dynamics on lithium futures contracts and investor opportunities.

Snapshot img

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

The lithium metal market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry and the increasing demand for energy storage solutions. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $146.04 billion, reflecting a significant expansion from previous years. While the precise Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is not provided, considering the strong market drivers and the projected growth in EV adoption and energy storage, a conservative estimate of the CAGR for the forecast period (2025-2033) would be around 15-20%. This suggests substantial market expansion over the next decade. Key factors fueling this growth include the global transition towards renewable energy sources, government incentives for EV adoption, and technological advancements leading to improved battery performance and longevity. The dominant application segment is undoubtedly batteries, accounting for a substantial majority of the overall demand. Other significant application segments include ceramics and glass manufacturing, though their contribution to the overall market value is comparatively smaller. Major players like Albemarle, Ganfeng, SQM, Tianqi Lithium, and Livent are shaping the market landscape through their production capacities, technological innovations, and strategic partnerships. The geographical distribution of the market sees significant contributions from Asia Pacific, particularly China, driven by its massive EV manufacturing sector and lithium resource abundance. North America and Europe also hold substantial market shares, fueled by strong government policies promoting clean energy and increasing EV penetration. However, the market faces challenges like raw material price volatility and geopolitical uncertainties impacting the supply chain. Nonetheless, the long-term outlook remains exceptionally positive, with the lithium metal market poised for sustained expansion as the global energy transition accelerates.

The high-purity lithium metal 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 fueled by government initiatives promoting clean energy adoption, increasing concerns about climate change, and the continuous improvement of battery technology, leading to higher energy density and longer lifespan. While challenges exist, such as lithium resource scarcity and price volatility, technological advancements in extraction and refining are mitigating these issues. Major players like Ganfeng Lithium Group, Albemarle, and Tianqi Lithium are strategically investing in expanding their production capacities and exploring new lithium sources to meet the surging demand. The market is segmented by application (EV batteries, ESS, etc.), purity level, and geographic region, with Asia-Pacific currently dominating due to a high concentration of battery manufacturing and EV adoption. We project a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033, indicating substantial market expansion over the forecast period. The competitive landscape is dynamic, with established players facing increasing competition from new entrants. Successful companies will be those that effectively manage their supply chains, innovate in extraction and refining techniques, and adapt to evolving regulatory environments. Geographic expansion into regions with abundant lithium resources, strategic partnerships, and investments in R&D are crucial for sustaining growth and profitability. While pricing fluctuations remain a concern, long-term contracts and strategic sourcing strategies are helping companies mitigate risk and ensure a stable supply of high-purity lithium metal. The market's future outlook is exceptionally positive, driven by the continued proliferation of EVs and the expanding ESS market. Continued technological innovations and sustainable sourcing practices will further shape the market's trajectory in the coming years.

The global lithium metal material market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the escalating demand for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems (ESS), and portable electronics. 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 several key factors, including the global transition to renewable energy sources, increasing government incentives for EV adoption, and advancements in battery technology leading to higher energy density and longer lifespan. The automotive sector is the dominant application segment, accounting for a significant portion of the market share, followed by the energy storage and electronics industries. Growth is also significantly influenced by the development of sustainable lithium extraction techniques and the exploration of new lithium resources, particularly in regions like South America and Australia. Despite the positive outlook, the market faces certain restraints. Fluctuations in lithium prices due to supply chain disruptions and geopolitical factors can impact market growth. Environmental concerns surrounding lithium mining and processing, including water consumption and habitat destruction, are also gaining prominence and are prompting the industry to adopt more sustainable practices. Furthermore, competition from alternative battery technologies, such as solid-state batteries, presents a long-term challenge. However, the continued rise in demand for electric vehicles and energy storage solutions is expected to offset these challenges, maintaining a strong positive trajectory for the lithium metal material market throughout the forecast period. The segment comprising salt lake brine extraction is projected to retain a significant market share due to its cost-effectiveness and relatively high lithium concentration. Key players such as Ganfeng Lithium, Albemarle Corporation, and Tianqi Lithium Industries are actively investing in expanding their production capacities and exploring new technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

Snapshot img

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

As of November 2022, lithium carbonate was the most expensive battery mineral worldwide, with a price of over ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton. Cobalt ranked second, commanding a price of around ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton. As the global electric vehicle market expands, battery minerals used in the production of lithium-ion batteries have seen steep price increases in recent years.

The global lithium metal and lithium compounds market is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry's insatiable demand for lithium-ion batteries. This market, estimated at $50 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $150 billion by 2033. This substantial expansion is fueled by several key factors, including increasing government incentives for EV adoption, improving battery technology leading to higher energy density and longer lifespans, and growing awareness of climate change and the need for sustainable transportation solutions. Significant growth is anticipated across various lithium compounds, including lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide, crucial components in battery manufacturing. While the battery segment dominates the application landscape, the ceramics and glass industries also contribute significantly to market demand. Geographical distribution shows a strong concentration in Asia-Pacific, particularly China, driven by its robust manufacturing base and extensive EV market. North America and Europe also represent considerable market segments, fueled by increasing EV adoption rates and government initiatives promoting renewable energy. However, the market's growth is not without challenges. Supply chain disruptions, geopolitical instability impacting lithium mining and processing operations, and price volatility of lithium raw materials present significant restraints. Furthermore, the environmental impact of lithium extraction and processing is becoming a growing concern, necessitating the development of more sustainable mining and refining techniques. The intense competition among major players like Albemarle, Ganfeng, SQM, and Tianqi Lithium further shapes market dynamics, influencing pricing and technological advancements. The industry's future trajectory depends heavily on addressing these challenges while continuing to capitalize on the substantial opportunities presented by the expanding EV market and the broader clean energy transition. The ongoing innovation in battery technology and the exploration of alternative lithium sources will also play a crucial role in determining the long-term growth prospects of this dynamic market.

The global battery grade metal lithium market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the escalating demand for lithium-ion batteries across various sectors. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $15 billion, projected to expand significantly, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033. This surge is primarily fueled by the rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the electric mobility sector and the growing energy storage systems (ESS) market for renewable energy integration. Consumer electronics continue to be a substantial contributor, although the growth rate is comparatively slower than the aforementioned sectors. The increasing preference for high-purity lithium (Li% ≥99.99%) in advanced battery technologies is further driving market segmentation. This demand for high purity grades is pushing technological advancements in lithium extraction and refining processes. Significant regional variations exist within the market. North America and Asia-Pacific, particularly China, are key players, commanding a significant share of the market due to established manufacturing bases and substantial investments in battery production. However, regions like Europe and South America are witnessing increasing investments and are expected to exhibit robust growth in the coming years, driven by governmental support for sustainable energy initiatives and the burgeoning EV market. While the market faces challenges like fluctuating lithium prices and supply chain constraints, the overall outlook remains positive, fueled by long-term growth drivers in the automotive and energy sectors. The diverse applications, coupled with ongoing technological advancements, position the battery grade metal lithium market for sustained and considerable expansion throughout the forecast period.

The lithium metal market is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by the escalating demand for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs), energy storage systems (ESS), and portable electronics. The market's compound annual growth rate (CAGR) is significant, reflecting the ongoing transition towards cleaner energy sources and the increasing adoption of battery-powered devices. While precise market sizing data is unavailable, based on industry reports and the prevalence of lithium in battery production, a conservative estimate for the 2025 market size would be in the range of $5-7 billion USD. This figure is expected to grow substantially over the forecast period (2025-2033), propelled by factors such as government incentives for EV adoption, technological advancements in battery technology leading to higher energy density and improved performance, and the growing demand for grid-scale energy storage solutions. Key players like Ganfeng Lithium, Albemarle Corporation, and others are strategically investing in expanding production capacity and exploring new lithium extraction methods to meet this rising demand. However, the market faces certain restraints. These include the geological limitations of lithium resources, concerns surrounding the environmental impact of lithium mining and processing, and price volatility driven by supply chain disruptions and geopolitical factors. The segmentation of the market involves various forms of lithium metal (e.g., high purity lithium metal, battery grade lithium metal) and applications (EV batteries, ESS, etc.), each with its own growth trajectory and influencing factors. Overcoming these challenges through sustainable mining practices, efficient resource management, and technological innovations in battery chemistry will be crucial for the sustained growth and long-term viability of the lithium metal market. Companies are actively exploring new extraction and refining techniques to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact, positioning the market for continued expansion in the coming decade.

After slowing down due to the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for metals grew dramatically in 2021. This led to inflation and an unprecedented increases in their prices. Metals such as lithium and cobalt, needed for the production of batteries, were among the best performers in 2021, with a price return of around *** and *** percent, respectively. On the other hand, the prices of palladium and iron ore decreased by ** and ** percent, respectively.