Lithium traded flat at 73,550 CNY/T on September 30, 2025. Over the past month, Lithium's price has fallen 7.67%, and is down 3.86% 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 October of 2025.

Why did the Lithium Carbonate Price Change in July 2025? The Lithium Carbonate Price Index in the U.S. averaged USD 9,357/MT DDP USGC in Q2 2025, continuing a downward trajectory from earlier in the year as battery producers curtailed spot purchases.

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.

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.

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

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

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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 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

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

The average lithium carbonate import price stood at $9,048 per ton in May 2025, declining by -3.1% against the previous month.

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.

Lithium Carbonate Spot Trading Platform Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global lithium carbonate spot trading platform market size reached USD 1.86 billion in 2024, reflecting the burgeoning demand for transparent and efficient trading mechanisms in the lithium supply chain. The market is poised to expand at a robust CAGR of 13.4% from 2025 to 2033, with a projected value of USD 5.57 billion by 2033. This surge is primarily fueled by the exponential growth in lithium-ion battery production, rising adoption of electric vehicles, and increasing interest in digital commodity trading platforms.

The primary growth driver for the lithium carbonate spot trading platform market is the accelerating demand for lithium-ion batteries, particularly within the electric vehicle (EV) and renewable energy sectors. As governments worldwide set ambitious targets for carbon neutrality and electrification of transportation, the need for efficient, transparent, and real-time lithium carbonate trading has become paramount. Spot trading platforms offer market participants instant price discovery, reduced transaction times, and improved liquidity, thereby enabling battery manufacturers and other end users to secure critical raw materials more effectively. Furthermore, the volatility in lithium prices and the need for hedging strategies have made real-time trading platforms an essential tool for risk management and supply chain optimization.

Another significant growth factor is the ongoing digital transformation of commodity trading. Traditional lithium trading methods, often characterized by opaque pricing and limited market access, are being supplanted by digital platforms that leverage advanced analytics, blockchain technology, and automated trading algorithms. These innovations are fostering a more competitive and accessible market environment, attracting not only established industry players but also new entrants and financial institutions. As a result, the lithium carbonate spot trading platform market is experiencing rapid technological advancements, with platforms offering sophisticated features such as smart contracts, real-time analytics, and customizable trading interfaces to cater to diverse user requirements.

The increasing complexity of global lithium supply chains is also propelling the adoption of spot trading platforms. With lithium carbonate sourced from various regions and processed through multiple intermediaries, stakeholders require agile and secure platforms to manage transactions, verify provenance, and ensure regulatory compliance. The integration of decentralized and hybrid trading models is addressing these needs by offering enhanced transparency, traceability, and security. This, in turn, is driving greater confidence among buyers and sellers, stimulating market participation, and supporting the overall growth of the lithium carbonate spot trading platform market.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific market dominates due to its leadership in battery manufacturing and electric vehicle production, particularly in China, Japan, and South Korea. North America and Europe are also witnessing substantial growth, propelled by investments in EV infrastructure and renewable energy projects. Latin America, as a major lithium-producing region, is increasingly leveraging spot trading platforms to connect with global buyers, while the Middle East & Africa is gradually emerging as a strategic market for future expansion. The regional outlook underscores the global interdependence of lithium supply chains and the pivotal role of digital trading platforms in facilitating cross-border transactions and fostering market integration.

Platform Type Analysis

The lithium carbonate spot trading platform market is segmented by platform type into centralized platforms, decentralized platforms, and hybrid platforms. Centralized platforms currently hold the largest market share, attributed to their established infrastructure, regulatory oversight, and robust security protocols. These platforms act as trusted intermediaries, providing

Lithium Market Outlook

The global lithium market size was valued at approximately USD 8.3 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 26.9 billion by 2032, exhibiting a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 14.2% during the forecast period. This impressive growth trajectory is primarily driven by the burgeoning demand for lithium-ion batteries, pivotal in propelling the electric vehicle (EV) revolution and portable consumer electronics. The increasing commitment of governments worldwide to transition to renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions is another significant driver, further catalyzing the adoption of lithium-ion technologies across various sectors.

A critical growth factor for the lithium market is the rapid expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) sector. With automotive giants and startups alike accelerating their production of electric models, the demand for lithium, a key component in EV batteries, has surged. Policies aimed at reducing dependency on fossil fuels and incentivizing cleaner transportation options are amplifying this trend. For instance, several countries, including China, the United States, and members of the European Union, have set ambitious targets for EV adoption, fueling substantial investments in lithium extraction and battery production facilities. Additionally, advancements in battery technology that increase energy density and reduce costs are making EVs more accessible to the mass market, thereby increasing lithium demand.

The proliferation of renewable energy initiatives and the associated need for efficient energy storage solutions present another growth vector for the lithium market. Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are inherently intermittent, necessitating reliable storage solutions to ensure a stable power supply. Lithium-ion batteries have emerged as the preferred choice due to their high energy density, efficiency, and declining costs. As countries globally push towards achieving sustainable energy goals, the deployment of large-scale lithium-ion battery storage systems is anticipated to expand, further bolstering the market. Additionally, advancements in grid infrastructure that integrate renewable energy sources are expected to contribute significantly to the growing demand for lithium-based solutions.

Technological innovation and increased investment in research and development are further enhancing the growth prospects of the lithium market. Research into alternative lithium extraction methods, such as direct lithium extraction (DLE) from brines, is gaining traction, promising more environmentally friendly and cost-effective solutions than traditional mining methods. Moreover, ongoing improvements in battery recycling technologies aim to recover lithium from spent batteries efficiently, reducing dependency on new lithium extraction and supporting circular economy initiatives. These technological advancements are critical for meeting future lithium demand sustainably and mitigating environmental impacts associated with lithium production.

Regionally, Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the lithium market due to its robust manufacturing base and rapidly growing EV industry. The presence of major battery manufacturers and a conducive regulatory environment further bolster this region's growth. In contrast, North America and Europe are experiencing heightened demand driven by policy incentives and technological innovation. Latin America, home to the 'Lithium Triangle'—a region abundant in lithium reserves—is emerging as a key player in the supply chain, while the Middle East & Africa are gradually increasing their market presence with investments in mining and battery manufacturing.

Type Analysis

The lithium market is segmented into various types, including lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, lithium chloride, and others, each playing a distinct role in diverse applications. Lithium carbonate is currently the most widely used type, primarily due to its application in the production of lithium-ion batteries. As the demand for electric vehicles and portable electronic devices continues to grow, the consumption of lithium carbonate is expected to see a significant rise. This compound is also used in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics, where it enhances the physical properties of the materials. Thus, the multifaceted applications of lithium carbonate make it a cornerstone of the lithium market.

Lithium hydroxide is gaining prominence due to its superior performance in high-nickel content lithium-ion batteries, which offer higher energy densities. This type is incre

The lithium-ion battery pack price dropped to *** U.S. dollars per kilowatt-hour in 2024, down from over *** dollars per kilowatt-hour a year earlier. Lithium-ion batteries are one of the most efficient energy storage devices worldwide. Over recent years, high-scale production and capital investment into the battery production process have made lithium-ion battery packs cheaper and more efficient. This demonstrates a staggering demand for energy storage worldwide and could be attributed to the fact that the world is moving towards a renewable energy-based economy where electric vehicles play an increasingly large role. Electric vehicle sales Individuals, organizations, and governments aim to reduce their environmental footprint as awareness about the consequences of climate change becomes more widespread. To contribute to a greener society, they promote the growth of the electric vehicle market to make transportation more sustainable and less polluting. When it comes to the sales volume of electric vehicles, the trend is staggeringly positive. For instance, global plug-in electric light vehicle (PEV) sales have progressively increased since 2015, surpassing **** million units sold in 2023. Environmental impact Incorrect disposal of Li-ion batteries can have a devastating environmental impact on the environment, sparking the need for recycling. The global market for lithium-ion battery recycling is expected to reach **** billion U.S. dollars by 2030. This figure compares to around *** billion U.S. dollars in 2023.

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.

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

The 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.

Lithium Carbonate Market size was valued at USD 5 Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 18.15 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 15% during the forecasted period 2024 to 2031. Global Lithium Carbonate Market Drivers The market drivers for the Lithium Carbonate Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:

• Growing Demand for Electric Vehicles (EVs): The rise in electric vehicle production is a significant driver, as lithium carbonate is a crucial component in lithium-ion batteries. • Energy Storage Systems: The increasing adoption of renewable energy sources (like solar and wind) and the need for efficient energy storage solutions boost demand for lithium batteries.

Global Lithium Carbonate Market Restraints Several factors can act as restraints or challenges for the Lithium Carbonate Market. These may include:

• Environmental Concerns: The extraction and processing of lithium can lead to significant environmental degradation, including water depletion and soil contamination, which may prompt stricter regulations. • Price Volatility: Fluctuations in lithium prices can create uncertainty for manufacturers and investors, making long-term planning difficult.

In April 2023, the price of Lithium Carbonate was reported at $67,831 per ton (CIF, Japan), a 1.6% increase compared to the previous month.

The global lithium resources market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the burgeoning demand for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESS). The market, currently valued at an estimated $25 billion in 2025, is projected to witness a significant Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated market value exceeding $80 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors, including increasing government incentives promoting EV adoption, the rising prevalence of renewable energy sources requiring efficient energy storage solutions, and technological advancements in lithium-ion battery technology leading to improved performance and reduced costs. Major market players such as Galaxy Resources, Albemarle, and Tianqi Lithium are actively expanding their production capacities and investing in research and development to meet the soaring demand. However, the market faces challenges including fluctuating lithium prices due to supply chain constraints, geopolitical risks impacting resource availability, and environmental concerns related to lithium extraction and processing. The market is segmented by application (EV batteries, ESS, consumer electronics, etc.) and type (lithium carbonate, lithium hydroxide, etc.), with the EV battery segment holding the largest market share due to its rapid expansion. Geographic growth is uneven, with Asia-Pacific expected to dominate due to the high concentration of EV manufacturing and battery production. North America and Europe are expected to see significant growth as well, driven by robust policy support and rising consumer demand. The geographical distribution of lithium resources presents both opportunities and challenges. While key production hubs are concentrated in certain regions such as South America (Chile, Argentina) and Australia, the market is increasingly witnessing diversification of production and processing facilities across other continents to reduce reliance on specific regions and to address growing regional demands. Furthermore, the focus on sustainable and responsible mining practices, including the development of recycling technologies to reduce environmental impact and improve resource efficiency, is emerging as a key trend that will shape the long-term trajectory of the lithium market. Companies are increasingly focusing on securing long-term supply agreements, vertical integration, and exploration of new lithium deposits to enhance their market position amidst this rapidly expanding landscape.