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 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.

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.

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.

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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 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.

The Lithium Market size was valued at USD 22.19 USD Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 89.78 USD Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 22.1 % during the forecast period. Recent developments include: January 2023 – Ganfeng Lithium Co., Ltd. announced an investment of USD 2.14 billion in two new battery factories to increase its production capacities by 34 GWh. This facility will add to manufacturing and is expected to grow to around 100 GWh annually., December 2022 – Sigma Lithium announced that the company has secured a fund of USD 100 million from Synergy Capital to build the first phase of a USD 155 million expansion at its Grota do Cirilo lithium project in Minas Gerais, Brazil. This mine can generate up to 270,000 tonnes per year of high-purity battery-grade lithium concentrate, equal to about 36,700 tonnes of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent (LCE)., September 2022 – SQM S.A. announced a sustainable innovation program named the 'Salar Futuro Project,' which develops a new form of lithium production with zero freshwater usage. This project's initial investment of USD 1,500 million aims to achieve a zero water footprint by achieving carbon neutrality., June 2022 – Albemarle Corporation inaugurated a third chemical conversion plant La Negra III/IV, in Antofagasta. This facility is one of the modern conversion plants in Latin America. This facility will double the lithium production, reduce water consumption by 30% per metric ton, and commit to a sustainable production line., June 2021 - Ganfeng Lithium announced an increase in its Li2CO3 production by 600,000 tons an equivalent year as demand for the commodity used in electric-vehicle batteries increases. The company will sell around USD 630 million in new shares to boost capacity and fund potential investments.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Adoption of Electric Vehicles Will Aid Market Growth . Potential restraints include: Environmental Concerns and Recycling May Hinder Market Growth. Notable trends are: Companies Creating Environmentally Sustainable Solutions for LIBs and EVs will Fuel the Product Demand.

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 lithium market is experiencing explosive growth, driven by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry and the increasing demand for energy storage solutions. With a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 19.57% from 2019 to 2033, the market's value is projected to significantly expand. This robust growth is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, the global transition towards cleaner energy sources is heavily reliant on lithium-ion batteries, making lithium a critical raw material. Secondly, advancements in battery technology are increasing energy density and reducing costs, further stimulating demand. Government incentives and policies supporting EV adoption and renewable energy infrastructure are also playing a crucial role. However, the market faces challenges such as supply chain constraints, geopolitical risks associated with lithium production concentration, and environmental concerns related to lithium mining. The market is segmented by various factors including battery chemistry (e.g., LCO, NMC, LFP), application (e.g., EVs, energy storage systems, portable electronics), and geographic region. Major players like Albemarle Corporation, SQM SA, and Ganfeng Lithium Co Ltd are fiercely competing to secure market share, engaging in strategic partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, and capacity expansions to meet the escalating demand. The market's future trajectory hinges on overcoming supply bottlenecks, achieving sustainable mining practices, and the continued technological advancements in battery technology. Despite challenges, the forecast for the lithium market remains remarkably positive. The increasing affordability and accessibility of electric vehicles, combined with the growing adoption of renewable energy technologies, point towards a continued surge in lithium demand throughout the forecast period (2025-2033). Regional variations in market growth will likely be influenced by factors such as government policies, infrastructure development, and the presence of established lithium mining and processing industries. It is crucial for market participants to proactively address the environmental and social responsibilities associated with lithium extraction to ensure the long-term sustainability of this vital industry. The strategic positioning of key players, coupled with continuous technological innovations in battery technology and recycling processes, will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the lithium market. Future research will likely focus on improving extraction methods, developing alternative lithium sources, and optimizing battery performance for maximum efficiency and sustainability. Recent developments include: May 2022: Mineral Resources marked a significant milestone in its lithium growth strategy with the first new spodumene concentrate delivered at the Wodgina Lithium Project in the Pilbara region of Western Australia., April 2022: SQM SA planned to invest USD 900 million in 2022 as part of its plan to increase lithium carbonate and hydroxide production capacity. The company has plans to enhance lithium carbonate production capacity to 180,000 metric ton per annum in the future. Furthermore, the capacity is likely to reach 210,000 tons by early 2023., April 2022: Avalon Advanced Materials Inc. signed an agreement with RenJoules International Ltd, an Essar Company, to become a strategic partner and co-developer in support of Avalon's plans to establish a regional lithium battery materials supply chain. This agreement may fulfill the needs of upcoming electric vehicle and battery manufacturers in Ontario and other regions.. Key drivers for this market are: Accelerating Demand for Electric Vehicles, Increasing Usage and Demand by Portable Consumer Electronics; Other Drivers. Potential restraints include: Accelerating Demand for Electric Vehicles, Increasing Usage and Demand by Portable Consumer Electronics; Other Drivers. Notable trends are: The Battery Application Segment to Dominate the Market.

The Lithium Market size was valued at USD 22 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 26 Million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 19.57 % during the forecasts periods. Recent developments include: May 2022: Mineral Resources marked a significant milestone in its lithium growth strategy with the first new spodumene concentrate delivered at the Wodgina Lithium Project in the Pilbara region of Western Australia., April 2022: SQM SA planned to invest USD 900 million in 2022 as part of its plan to increase lithium carbonate and hydroxide production capacity. The company has plans to enhance lithium carbonate production capacity to 180,000 metric ton per annum in the future. Furthermore, the capacity is likely to reach 210,000 tons by early 2023., April 2022: Avalon Advanced Materials Inc. signed an agreement with RenJoules International Ltd, an Essar Company, to become a strategic partner and co-developer in support of Avalon's plans to establish a regional lithium battery materials supply chain. This agreement may fulfill the needs of upcoming electric vehicle and battery manufacturers in Ontario and other regions.. Key drivers for this market are: Accelerating Demand for Electric Vehicles, Increasing Usage and Demand by Portable Consumer Electronics; Other Drivers. Potential restraints include: Demand-supply Gap in the Lithium Market, Other Restraints. Notable trends are: The Battery Application Segment to Dominate the Market.

In Q3 2025, North America, the Lithium Hydroxide Price Index fell by 3.7% quarter-over-quarter, driven by oversupply and procurement. Check detailed insights for Europe and APAC.

By 2025, producing battery grade lithium hydroxide globally from brine harvesting will involve, in general, more costs than from spodumene. This is because in the first process it is necessary to produce lithium carbonate as an intermediate product, to later generate lithium hydroxide. It is expected that the difference in production costs between these two processes will amount to almost 1,000 U.S. dollars per ton of lithium carbonate equivalent.

The size of the LiFSI for Lithium Battery Electrolyte Market was valued at USD 503.64 USD Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1340.51 USD Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 15.01% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: July 2023: Guangzhou Tinci Materials Technology, a China-based supplier of electrolytes and electrolyte chemicals for lithium batteries, shared plans to invest USD 280 million to build a plant in Morocco for the production and sale of lithium-ion battery materials. Yicai Global, its Singapore unit, would construct the plant. A plant in North Africa will help Tinci explore the European market, given that Morocco has significant phosphorite ore resources., July 2023: With more than a dozen lithium-ion battery plants under construction, the fast-growing U.S. battery industry is attracting producers of the electrolyte. This liquid carries lithium ions from one end of the battery to the other when they are used. Capchem announced plans to build a USD 120 million electrolyte plant in southern Ohio. Meanwhile, Dongwha Electrolyte broke ground on a USD 70 million facility in Tennessee that can produce more than 70,000 tons of electrolytes annually. Soulbrain is constructing a USD 75 million electrolyte plant in Indiana to serve a nearby battery plant., October 2022: Guangzhou Tinci Materials Technology Co. Ltd. (Tinci) shared plans to invest in an expansion project that would add 100,000 metric tons per year of recycling processing capacity for LFP batteries and 300,000 metric tons per year of production capacity for lithium battery electrolyte solutions. The project would entail an investment of around USD 188.27 million. It would be implemented through Fuding Kaixin Battery Materials Co. Ltd. (Kaixin), the company’s sub-subsidiary., August 2021: Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL), a global chemical company for sustainability, and Capchem Technology USA Inc. (Capchem USA) entered a non-binding agreement to explore the possibility of building and operating a world-class lithium-ion battery solvent plant at one of IVL's petrochemical plants on the U.S. Gulf Coast. The planned plant would supply the North American lithium-ion battery industry, fueled by significant growth in Electric Vehicle (EV) development., August 2021: Yongtai Technology planned to acquire 150 million of Yongtai High-tech to improve the layout of lithium materials. On August 13, Yongtai Technology and Yongjing Technology signed the "Equity Transfer Agreement". The company had planned to use its capital of about USD 21.2 million to acquire the 15% stake in Yongjing Technology. After the acquisition, the company would hold a 75% stake in Yongtai High-tech, and Yongjing Technology would no longer hold Yongtai High-tech's stake.. Key drivers for this market are: Rapid Expansion of EV Market is a Major Factor Driving LiFSI for Lithium Battery Electrolyte Demand . Potential restraints include: Rapid Expansion of EV Market is a Major Factor Driving LiFSI for Lithium Battery Electrolyte Demand . Notable trends are: Rapid Expansion of EV Market is a Major Factor Driving LiFSI for Lithium Battery Electrolyte Demand .

Cobalt traded flat at 48,570 USD/T on November 27, 2025. Over the past month, Cobalt's price has remained flat, but it is still 99.88% higher than a year ago, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Cobalt - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on December of 2025.

The size of the MEA Lithium Industry was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 12.93% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: April 2022: SQM SA planned to invest USD 900 million in 2022 to increase lithium carbonate and hydroxide production capacity. The company planned to increase lithium carbonate production capacity to 180,000 metric tons annually. Furthermore, the capacity is likely to reach 210,000 tons by early 2023.. Key drivers for this market are: Accelerating Demand for Electric Vehicles, Growing Usage and Demand from the Portable Consumer Electronics; Other Drivers. Potential restraints include: High Dependency on Imports for Consumption, Other Restraints. Notable trends are: Growing Demand from Battery Applications.

The global Lithium Metal Material market is poised for significant expansion, projected to reach an estimated market size of USD 55,000 million by 2025, with a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 18.5%. This dynamic growth is primarily fueled by the escalating demand for high-performance batteries in electric vehicles (EVs), portable electronics, and energy storage systems. The accelerating transition towards sustainable energy solutions and stringent government regulations promoting EV adoption are key drivers. Furthermore, advancements in lithium extraction and refining technologies are enhancing production efficiency and making lithium metal materials more accessible, contributing to market expansion. The market is also witnessing a growing application in metal processing for specialized alloys and in the pharmaceutical sector, albeit to a lesser extent. The competitive landscape is characterized by the presence of major players like Ganfeng Lithium, Tianqui Lithium Industries, and Albemarle Corporation, who are actively investing in expanding production capacities and developing innovative lithium technologies. Emerging players and startups are also contributing to market dynamism, focusing on niche applications and advanced material development. Restraints such as supply chain volatility, geopolitical factors influencing resource availability, and the environmental impact of lithium extraction processes pose challenges. However, ongoing research into recycling and sustainable sourcing, coupled with technological breakthroughs, is expected to mitigate these concerns. The Asia Pacific region, particularly China, is anticipated to dominate the market due to its established manufacturing base and significant demand for EVs and electronics. This comprehensive report offers an in-depth analysis of the global Lithium Metal Material market, providing actionable insights for stakeholders. With an estimated world production exceeding 500,000 metric tons annually, the market is dynamic and poised for significant growth. The report delves into the intricacies of lithium metal material production, its diverse applications, and the evolving landscape of technological advancements and regulatory frameworks.

Platinum fell to 1,646.20 USD/t.oz on December 2, 2025, down 0.99% from the previous day. Over the past month, Platinum's price has risen 5.18%, and is up 73.12% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Platinum - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on December of 2025.

Discover the booming MEA lithium market! This in-depth analysis reveals a 12.93% CAGR driven by renewable energy and EV adoption. Explore market size, key segments (batteries, grease, ceramics), top players, and regional trends. Invest wisely in this rapidly growing sector. Recent developments include: April 2022: SQM SA planned to invest USD 900 million in 2022 to increase lithium carbonate and hydroxide production capacity. The company planned to increase lithium carbonate production capacity to 180,000 metric tons annually. Furthermore, the capacity is likely to reach 210,000 tons by early 2023.. Key drivers for this market are: Accelerating Demand for Electric Vehicles, Growing Usage and Demand from the Portable Consumer Electronics; Other Drivers. Potential restraints include: Accelerating Demand for Electric Vehicles, Growing Usage and Demand from the Portable Consumer Electronics; Other Drivers. Notable trends are: Growing Demand from Battery Applications.

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.