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 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.

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 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.

Snapshot img

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?

Request Free Sample

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.

Get a glance at the lithium industry share of various segments Request Free Sample

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.

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

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

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

The Lithium Battery Grade Lithium Carbonate Market size was valued at USD 5.98 USD Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 13.90 USD Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 12.8 % during the forecast period. Lithium Battery Grade Lithium Carbonate is a highly pure lithium material that is required for lithium-ion batteries. This is subdivided into industrial and high-purity grades; the latter is more desirable for battery use due to higher purity and therefore lower inter solutes. It is characterized by good electrochemical activity, chemical stability, and maximum energy density, making it suitable for the creation of rechargeable batteries. Some of the areas where it is mainly used are in electric vehicles, portable electronics, and energy storage systems. The quality of lithium carbonate and the lithium material on which it is based directly affects the performance, including effectiveness and longevity, of batteries and thus the lithium-ion batteries in such applications. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing on-road vehicle fleet to Fuel Demand for tinting films. Potential restraints include: Fluctuations in Prices of Crude Oil May Hamper Growth.

Snapshot img

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?

Request Free Sample

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.

Get a glance at the Lithium Carbonate Industry report of share of various segments Request Free Sample

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

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.

The US Lithium Carbonate market in Q4 2024 exhibited a volatile price trajectory, primarily driven by persistent oversupply and subdued demand. The quarter commenced with relatively stable prices amidst an oversupplied market, with excess supply outpacing current demand, leading to downward pressure on prices. While there were initial signs of production cuts by Chinese producers, their impact was limited.

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 size and share of the market is categorized based on Type (Lithium Carbonate, Lithium Hydroxide, Lithium Metal) and Application (Batteries, Ceramics & Glass, Lubricants, Pharmaceuticals) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global technical grade lithium hydroxide market size is USD XX million in 2023 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.10% from 2023 to 2030. Growing Demand for Electric Vehicles to Drive the Market Expansion.

The importance of renewable energy and energy storage grew, particularly in light of worldwide initiatives to minimise greenhouse gas emissions and promote green energy is anticipated to drive the market growth. Spending on technical grade lithium hydroxide for stationary energy storage and electric vehicles has surged. The primary drivers of the market are the increasing demand for technical grade lithium hydroxide used in electric vehicles and the growing popularity of lithium hydroxide NCA cathode-powered power tools.

For instance, in August 2022, Ganfeng Lithium stated that it has partnered with GAC AlON in a long-term strategic cooperation to enhance the development of battery raw materials and the recycling of outdated new electric vehicle ("NEV") batteries.

Source-www.marklines.com/en/top500/catl

Novel and Enhanced Tchnology in Lithium Ion Battery to Propel Market Growth

New and improved lithium-ion battery technology is being developed as battery applications require more power and lower costs. Battery technology developments are critical to meeting consumer demand for portable devices and electric vehicles with greater battery life and faster charging periods. As a result, new materials, manufacturing methods, and battery management systems have been developed to improve the efficiency and performance of technical grade lithium hydroxide.

For instance, in May 2022, According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), electric vehicle sales are expected to reach a record high of 4.7 million units in 2021, a 43% increase over the previous year.

Market Restraints of the Technical Grade Lithium Hydroxide Market

The High Expense of Procedure Stemming from the Need for Multiple Stages and the Use of Lime, Which Generates Waste, are Hamper the Market Growth. 

Numerous common reasons of maintenance outages in processing plants that lead to reduced output, increased costs, and downtime, regardless of whether LiOH is derived from carbonate or straight from a spodumene slurry. Erosion frequently serves as a source of contaminants as well. The hardness of crystallised hydroxide is well known to those who have attempted to chip it out of equipment (more on this later). The erosion that occurs when this material is moving quickly through a pipe in the form of a turbulent hot slurry is also noteworthy.

Impact of the COVID-19 on Technical Grade Lithium Hydroxide market

The COVID-19 pandemic affected the technical grade lithium hydroxide market significantly. Lockdowns and mask mandates reduced the demand for lithium hydroxide COVID-19 influenced short-term lithium hydroxide sales. Covid-19 is causing a backlog in the lithium hydroxide supply chain. Overseas markets, primarily Japan and South Korea, bought more over 80% of China's hydroxide output. Overseas consumers are having difficulty obtaining lithium hydroxide due to customs clearance complications caused by the epidemic. Domestic users are also suffering issues as a result of transportation disruptions. They may find it increasingly difficult to obtain the material as converters work to keep their foreign customers well supplied. These effects are exacerbated by the chemical's limited shelf life. Because lithium hydroxide is highly hygroscopic and oxidative, users rarely keep considerable quantities of it on hand. What is Technical Grade Lithium Hydroxide?

Lithium hydroxide is a chemical used in the production of technical grade lithium hydroxide , ceramics, and lubricants. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly employed in electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid energy storage systems. The market is primarily driven by rising demand for technical grade lithium hydroxide in the automotive sector. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly employed in electric vehicles due to their high energy density, extended life, and low self-discharge rates. The automotive industry is experiencing an increase in demand for technical grade lithium hydroxide . Lithium-ion batteries are commonly employed in electric vehicles due to their high energy density, extended life, and low self-discharge rates...

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 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 industrial grade lithium carbonate market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the burgeoning demand from energy storage and battery systems, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. 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 the increasing adoption of EVs globally, coupled with the growing investments in renewable energy infrastructure and grid-scale energy storage solutions. Furthermore, the demand from the ceramics and specialty glasses industries contributes to overall market growth, albeit at a smaller scale compared to the energy sector. While supply chain constraints and fluctuating lithium prices pose challenges, technological advancements in lithium extraction and processing are mitigating these risks, enhancing the overall market outlook. The market segmentation reveals a strong preference for high-purity lithium carbonate (99.8%), reflecting the stringent quality requirements of the battery industry. The geographical distribution shows a significant concentration in Asia-Pacific, driven by the massive EV production capacity in China and the expanding energy storage markets in other Asian countries. North America and Europe also represent substantial market shares, reflecting their established automotive and renewable energy sectors. Leading players like SQM, Albemarle, and Tianqi Lithium are strategically expanding their production capacities and exploring new lithium sources to meet the escalating global demand. The forecast period (2025-2033) presents significant opportunities for market expansion, driven by the continued growth in the EV market, increasing government support for renewable energy initiatives, and ongoing technological innovations within the lithium industry. However, sustainable sourcing practices and responsible environmental management will be crucial to ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of the lithium carbonate market. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the global industrial grade lithium carbonate market, a crucial component in various high-growth sectors. Valued at approximately $15 billion in 2023, the market is projected to witness significant expansion, driven by the explosive demand from the electric vehicle (EV) battery sector. This report offers a granular view of market dynamics, including production trends, key players, and future growth prospects. Search terms like "lithium carbonate price," "lithium battery market," "lithium carbonate suppliers," and "lithium carbonate applications" are extensively covered.