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.

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).

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 Q3 2025, USA, the Lithium Metal Price Index remained steady quarter-over-quarter, reflecting balanced trade scenarios. Check detailed insights for Europe and APAC.

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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

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 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

Lithium's market value is forecast to increase to nearly **** 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 *** billion U.S. dollars.

Lithium ETF stock price, live market quote, shares value, historical data, intraday chart, earnings per share and news.

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

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.

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.

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 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.

The global spodumene concentrate market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the burgeoning demand for lithium-ion batteries in the electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage sectors. With a market size of $4,055 million in 2025 and a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.3% from 2025 to 2033, the market is poised for significant expansion. This growth is fueled by several factors, including the increasing adoption of EVs globally, the expanding energy storage infrastructure for renewable energy sources, and the growing application of lithium in consumer electronics and specialized ceramics. The various grades of spodumene concentrate (5% Li₂O, 6% Li₂O, 7% Li₂O, and others) cater to different applications, with higher-grade concentrates commanding premium prices due to their higher lithium content and reduced processing requirements. Major players like AMG, Rio Tinto, and Pilbara Minerals are strategically investing in expanding their production capacities and exploring new lithium resources to meet the surging demand. Geographic distribution shows a strong concentration in regions with significant lithium reserves and established mining operations, particularly in Australia, South America, and parts of North America. However, ongoing challenges such as fluctuating lithium prices, supply chain disruptions, and environmental concerns related to lithium mining will continue to shape market dynamics. The continued growth of the spodumene concentrate market hinges on technological advancements improving extraction and processing efficiency, a greater focus on sustainable mining practices to mitigate environmental impact, and the successful development and implementation of lithium-ion battery recycling technologies. Furthermore, government policies supporting the adoption of EVs and renewable energy infrastructure in key markets will play a crucial role in driving future demand. Competition among producers will intensify as the market expands, with companies focusing on optimizing their operations, securing long-term off-take agreements, and expanding into new geographic areas to maintain market share and profitability. Regional variations in demand and regulatory environments will also necessitate targeted strategies for successful market penetration. The diversification of applications beyond the EV sector, although presently less significant, could also contribute to overall market growth.

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.

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.

Discover the latest insights into the global salt lake brine lithium market. This comprehensive analysis reveals a projected CAGR of -2.4% (2025-2033), exploring key drivers, restraints, and regional market shares. Learn about leading companies and future trends in this vital sector fueling the electric vehicle revolution.