Lithium decreased 750 CNY/T or 1.00% since the beginning of 2025, 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 March of 2025.

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

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

Growing global lithium demand

There has been a steady increase in battery demand globally, which in turn becomes a strong driver of lithium usage in the future. However, producers have been unable to keep up with the demand. In 2025, global lithium demand is expected to reach 4,450 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent for non-rechargeable batteries. The 2018 annual average price of battery-grade lithium carbonate was 17,000 U.S. dollars per metric ton, increased from the 15,000 U.S. dollars in the previous year.

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

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Lithium 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 market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for lithium carbonate in various applications, including battery manufacturing for electric vehicles, energy storage systems, fuel cells, and renewable energy. The in demand from the electronics industry, particularly for mobile phones and consumer electronics, as well as digital cameras, is also driving market growth. However, the rise in availability of substitute products, such as nickel-metal hydride and lead-acid batteries, poses a challenge to the market.

Additionally, the trend towards battery recycling to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and minimize the environmental impact of lithium production is gaining momentum. Overall, capacity expansions and technological advancements are expected to accelerate market growth in the coming years.

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

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The market is experiencing growth, driven by the increasing demand for renewable energy storage and the electrification of transportation. Single-use batteries, particularly those used in electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles, are the primary consumers of lithium. The market's size is projected to expand significantly due to the ongoing transition towards sustainable energy sources and the increasing popularity of electric vehicles. Backward integration is a notable trend in the market, as companies seek to secure supply chains and improve performance metrics. Lithium is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making it a crucial component in the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Safety standards and ion disposal are critical considerations in the market, as the industry strives to address concerns related to ion charging and safety. Lithium is also used in various applications, including metallurgy, lubricants, medical, and polymer industries. The market's sustainability is a significant focus, with efforts underway to ensure sustainable production and minimize the environmental impact of lithium mining. The market's future direction is towards grid-scale energy storage, as the world moves towards a more electrified energy infrastructure.

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

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.ApplicationBatteriesCeramics and glassGreasePolymerOthersProductCarbonateHydroxideOthersGeographyAPACChinaJapanSouth KoreaNorth AmericaUSEuropeGermanySouth AmericaMiddle East and Africa

By Application Insights

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

The market is primarily driven by the growing demand for lithium-ion batteries, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV), consumer electronics, and power grid storage sectors. Lithium-ion batteries provide high-energy density with low weight and size, making them an ideal choice for these applications. Government regulations and subsidies for EVs further boost market growth. The EV industry's increasing requirement for lithium-ion batteries, coupled with the declining prices of battery technology, is expected to result in significant market expansion during the forecast period. Lithium-ion batteries have become the preferred solution for energy storage in EVs due to their exceptional electrochemical performance and capacity. Applications of lithium-ion batteries extend beyond EVs, including portable devices, power tools, hybrid vehicles, fuel cells, and air treatment systems. Additionally, lithium compounds are used in various industries, such as pharmaceuticals, glass ceramics, and lithium alloys. The market's growth is subject to regulatory scrutiny and sustainable mining practices, ensuring the production of lithium carbonate and lithium hydroxide for battery cells. Lithium extraction and battery recycling are essential for reducing the environmental impact and maintaining the sustainability of the market.

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The Batteries segment accounted for USD 148.29 in 2017 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Insights

APAC is estimated to contribute 70% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The market in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region is experi

The Global Lithium Market Report is Segmented by Type (Metal, Compound, and Alloy), Application (Battery, Grease, Air Treatment, Pharmaceuticals, Glass/Ceramic (Including Frits), Polymer, and Other Applications), End-user Industry (Industrial, Consumer Electronics, Energy Storage, Medical, Automotive, and Other End-user Industries), and Geography (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle East and Africa). The report offers market size and forecasts for lithium in volume in lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) kilotons for all the above segments.

In 2022, the average price of battery-grade lithium carbonate stood at 71,000 U.S. dollars per metric ton. This figure is by far the highest price for battery-grade lithium carbonate recorded in the period of consideration. For 2024, lithium carbonate price was estimated at 14,000 U.S. dollars per metric ton. Lithium is a highly reactive soft and silvery-white alkali metal. As the third element in the periodic table, it has 3 protons in its nucleus and three electrons around it. Because it is highly reactive, it cannot be found in its pure form in nature. Lithium is the least dense of solid elements and the lightest out of all metals. Lithium and batteries One of lithium’s most well-known end uses is in lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and mostly used in portable electronics and electronic vehicles. In lithium-ion batteries, the lithium ions move from the negative electrode to positive electrode while in use, and the process is reversed while charging. These batteries are highly flammable but are also low-maintenance. They have a high energy density and a low self-discharge. Some drawbacks include the fact that they are expensive to manufacture, and that they require protection circuits to maintain the voltage safely. Lithium-ion batteries are also the single-largest end use of lithium, amounting to an 87 percent share of global lithium consumption in 2024. Lithium demand forecasts Looking to the future, lithium demand is forecast to stand at 1.4 million tons by 2025. This growth will be mainly driven by lithium-ion battery demand for electric vehicles. Demand is expected to remain the highest in China, which will consistently account for half of global lithium-ion battery demand.

Lithium prices are projected to stabilize in 2025 following substantial declines, attributed to mining adjustments and China's expanding EV market. Analysts foresee a balance between supply and demand.

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

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

Lithium's market value is forecast to increase to nearly 6.68 billion U.S. dollars by 2030, due to its increasingly significant importance for various applications such as lithium-ion batteries. In 2023, the global market value of lithium amounted to 4.2 billion U.S. dollars.

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Lithium Carbonate Market Size 2025-2029

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

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

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

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

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

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

Application

  Batteries
  Ceramics and glass
  Cement and aluminum
  Others


Distribution Channel

  Direct sale
  Indirect sale


Geography

  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

    Brazil

By Application Insights

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

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

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

Regional Analysis

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

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

For more insights on the market share of various regions, Request Free Sample

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

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.

Although China is the second-largest importer of lithium carbonate in the world, it dominates globally in exports for lithium oxide and lithium hydroxide.With moderate lithium deposits, the country will need to find ways to expand its resource reserves to support the rapid development of its electric car and electronics industries. It is widely viewed that China will construct lithium mining facilities in Afghanistan, but this is very unlikely in the near future due to the difficult military and political situation there.

In 2024, after three years of decline, there was growth in the Kenyan lithium carbonate market, when its value increased by 4.1% to $3.7K. Over the period under review, consumption enjoyed buoyant growth. Lithium carbonate consumption peaked at $5.2K in 2020; however, from 2021 to 2024, consumption failed to regain momentum.

The global lithium compounds market was approximately USD 3.00 billion in 2019 and is anticipated to reach around USD 11.00 billion by 2026, at a CAGR of 20% during the forecast period.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global lithium ores market size will be USD XX million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD XX million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The saline lake lithium is the fastest growing segment of the Lithium ores industry

Market Dynamics of Lithium Ores Market

Key Drivers for Lithium Ores Market

Rising Demand for Electric Vehicles to Drive Market Growth

The rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) is a major driver of growth in the lithium ores market. As governments worldwide implement stringent emission regulations and offer incentives for zero-emission vehicles, consumer adoption of EVs is accelerating. Lithium-ion batteries, which are integral to EVs, require substantial amounts of lithium, thus boosting demand for lithium ores. The shift towards electric mobility not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also promotes technological advancements in battery performance and energy density. This increased demand for lithium to power EV batteries is leading to expanded exploration, investment, and development in lithium ore extraction and processing. Consequently, the lithium ores market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the global push for cleaner, more sustainable transportation solutions.

Growth in Renewable Energy Storage Solutions to Boost Market Growth

The growth in renewable energy storage solutions is significantly boosting the lithium ores market. As the world transitions towards cleaner energy sources like solar and wind, effective storage solutions become crucial to manage intermittent energy supply. Lithium-ion batteries are preferred for these applications due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and efficiency. The increasing deployment of energy storage systems, such as grid-scale batteries and residential storage units, is driving demand for lithium, which is essential for these batteries. This surge in demand leads to greater exploration and investment in lithium ores, enhancing market growth. Additionally, advancements in battery technology and increased focus on sustainable energy solutions further accelerate the need for lithium, contributing to the expansion of the lithium ores market.

Restraint Factor for the Lithium Ores Market

Limited Availability of High-Quality Lithium Ores Limit Market Growth

The limited availability of high-quality lithium ores is constraining market growth. High-grade lithium deposits are becoming increasingly scarce, making it challenging to meet the rising demand for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. The extraction of high-quality lithium ores often involves complex and costly processes, which can limit production capacity and drive up prices. Additionally, the concentration of high-quality deposits in a few geographic locations adds to the market's vulnerability to geopolitical and supply chain risks. This scarcity not only affects the stability of lithium supply but also impacts the overall cost structure of lithium products. As a result, the constrained availability of premium lithium ores poses a significant barrier to the expansion and development of the lithium market.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Lithium Ores Market

The COVID-19 pandemic had a detrimental impact on the lithium ores market. The global disruption in supply chains led to delays in mining operations and processing, resulting in a temporary shortage of lithium ores. Lockdowns and restrictions also hampered the ...

In Q2 2024, lithium hydroxide prices in the United States peaked at 14720 USD/MT in June. Several factors influenced these changes, including higher ocean freight demand, European restocking trends, and greater import activity within North America. These factors put pressure on the container market, reducing spot market liquidity and driving up shipping costs.

The lithium market size is projected to grow from USD 22.48 billion in 2024 to USD 155.7 billion by 2035, representing a CAGR of 19.23%, during the forecast period till 2035

The global lithium-ion battery market size reached USD 54.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 140.5 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 11.14% during 2025-2033. The market is experiencing significant growth mainly driven by the rising demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and rapid expansion of renewable energy storage solutions. In line with this, technological advancements enhancing battery efficiency and capacity, along with the widespread product adoption in consumer electronics further propels the market growth. At present, Asia Pacific holds the largest market share owing to the presence of a robust battery manufacturing ecosystem.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with forecasts at the global and regional levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product type, power capacity, and application.

The size and share of the market is categorized based on Type (Aluminum Plastic Packaging, Wooden Box/Iron Drum) and Application (Lithium Battery Anode Material, Application 2) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

Lithium Hydroxide Industry Market Analysis The global lithium hydroxide market is projected to witness significant growth, with a CAGR of 23.51% over the forecast period of 2025-2033. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for lithium-ion batteries, which utilize lithium hydroxide as a cathode active material. The growing adoption of electric vehicles, coupled with government incentives for sustainable energy solutions, is fueling the demand for lithium hydroxide. Moreover, its applications in lubricating greases, purification, and other industries contribute to its overall market growth. Key industry players include SQM S A, Albemarle Corporation, Fitz Chem LLC (Nagase America LLC), Ganfeng Lithium Group Co Ltd, KANTO KAGAKU, LevertonHELM Limited, Livent, Nemaska Lithium, Shangai China Lithium Industrial Co Ltd, SICHUAN BRIVO LITHIUM MATERIALS CO LTD, and Tianqi Lithium. The market is concentrated in regions such as Asia Pacific, North America, and Europe, with China dominating the global supply. However, emerging markets in South America, the Middle East, and Africa are expected to grow at higher rates due to increased demand from developing economies. Recent developments include: June 2023: Nemaska Lithium announced the commencement of construction of its new production facility in Bécancour. This new facility would produce lithium hydroxide for batteries, which the Whabouchi mine would supply., May 2023: Nemaska Lithium collaborated with Ford to provide lithium hydroxide produced at the company's production facility in Bécancour. According to this collaboration, Nemaska Lithium would provide up to 13,000 tons of lithium hydroxide to Ford for manufacturing electric vehicle batteries., March 2023: Albemarle Corporation expanded its lithium-processing facility in Chester County, South Carolina. This production facility is expected to support the production of around 2.4 million electric vehicles annually. Albemarle Corporation has announced a new lithium processing facility that will produce approximately 50,000 tons of battery-grade lithium hydroxide.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Demand for Electric Vehicles, Increasing Demand for Power Tools. Potential restraints include: Increasing Demand for Electric Vehicles, Increasing Demand for Power Tools. Notable trends are: Batteries Segment to Dominate the Market.