Lithium fell to 72,450 CNY/T on September 12, 2025, down 0.55% from the previous day. Over the past month, Lithium's price has fallen 10.56%, and is down 0.07% 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 September 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.

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.

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.

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 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 price of battery-grade lithium carbonate in China surged in 2021 as demand for electric vehicles (EV) rose significantly in the Asian country. The price of *** metric ton of battery-grade lithium carbonate stood at more than ****** U.S. dollars as of December 31, 2021, representing an increase of nearly *** percent compared to prices recorded in January of that year.

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.

China Market Price: Monthly Avg: Inorganic Chemical Material: Lithium Carbonate (Battery Grade): 99.5% data was reported at 76,500.000 RMB/Ton in Mar 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 78,900.000 RMB/Ton for Feb 2025. China Market Price: Monthly Avg: Inorganic Chemical Material: Lithium Carbonate (Battery Grade): 99.5% data is updated monthly, averaging 114,950.000 RMB/Ton from Jun 2020 (Median) to Mar 2025, with 58 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 597,000.000 RMB/Ton in Nov 2022 and a record low of 44,070.000 RMB/Ton in Jun 2020. China Market Price: Monthly Avg: Inorganic Chemical Material: Lithium Carbonate (Battery Grade): 99.5% data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by China National Chemical Economic and Technical Development Centre. The data is categorized under China Premium Database’s Price – Table CN.PC: China Petroleum & Chemical Industry Association: Petrochemical Price: Inorganic Chemical Material.

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.

In February 2025, the average lithium carbonate import price amounted to $9,735 per ton, waning by -6.8% against the previous month.

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 the first quarter of 2025, the U.S. lithium carbonate market experienced fluctuating dynamics shaped by ongoing global oversupply, restrained demand, and geopolitical uncertainty. Prices exhibited a gradual decline through January and February before stabilizing in March. Production and supply dynamics were shaped by a projected 16% increase in global capacity, driven by expansions in Chile, Australia, and Africa. Chile alone is expected to reach 305,000 tons of lithium output in 2025.

In 2023, approx. 69 tons of lithium carbonates were imported into Hungary; growing by 1.7% on 2022.

China is the world's leading importer country of lithium carbonate (Li2CO3). In 2023, the East Asian country imported *** thousand metric tons of the compound, with a value of **** billion U.S. dollars. Ranking second was Japan, which imported nearly **** billion U.S. dollars of Li2CO3. That year, Chile was the top exporting country of lithium carbonate worldwide, with an export value that amounted to some **** billion U.S. dollars.

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

The global market for micronized battery-grade lithium carbonate (mBGC) is experiencing robust growth, driven by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage system (ESS) industries. The increasing demand for high-performance batteries necessitates the use of mBGC due to its superior properties, including enhanced surface area and improved reactivity, leading to better battery performance and longer lifespan. While precise market sizing data is unavailable, considering the overall lithium carbonate market's significant expansion and the growing preference for high-purity grades like mBGC, a conservative estimate places the 2025 market size at approximately $5 billion USD. A Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% is projected from 2025 to 2033, reflecting the continued strong demand from the EV sector and wider adoption of renewable energy solutions. This growth is further fueled by advancements in battery technology and increasing government incentives promoting EV adoption and grid-scale energy storage. However, the market faces challenges. Supply chain disruptions, geopolitical instability impacting key lithium-producing regions, and the fluctuating price of lithium represent significant constraints. Furthermore, the intensifying competition among established players and emerging producers might impact profitability. Despite these restraints, the long-term outlook for mBGC remains positive, driven by the irreversible global shift towards electric mobility and renewable energy infrastructure. The market segmentation reflects a diverse landscape with varied players, ranging from established chemical giants like Albemarle and Livent to regional producers focusing on specific geographic markets. Strategic partnerships and technological innovations are expected to play a crucial role in shaping the market's future landscape, with a focus on enhancing production efficiency and sustainable sourcing practices.

The global market for Technical Grade Lithium Carbonate (TGLC) is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by the burgeoning demand from the electric vehicle (EV) battery sector and the increasing adoption of renewable energy technologies. While precise market sizing data isn't provided, considering the significant investments in lithium-ion battery production and the projected growth in EV sales, a reasonable estimate for the 2025 market size could be around $15 billion USD. Assuming a conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 15% (a figure supported by industry projections considering supply chain constraints and increasing demand), the market is expected to reach approximately $40 billion by 2033. Key drivers include the escalating demand for lithium-ion batteries in EVs, energy storage systems (ESS), and portable electronics. Furthermore, government initiatives promoting the adoption of renewable energy sources are indirectly fueling TGLC demand. However, challenges remain. These include fluctuating lithium prices due to supply chain disruptions and geopolitical factors, environmental concerns regarding lithium mining and processing, and the potential for technological advancements leading to alternative battery chemistries. Significant players in the TGLC market, including Albemarle, SQM, Livent, and several Chinese manufacturers, are actively expanding their production capacities and exploring innovative extraction and processing techniques to meet the rising global demand. The market is segmented based on various factors such as application (batteries, ceramics, glass), grade purity, and geographical location. The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China, currently dominates the market due to its substantial manufacturing base for lithium-ion batteries and downstream applications. The competitive landscape of the TGLC market is dynamic, with established players and emerging companies vying for market share. While large multinational corporations hold significant portions of the market, there is also ample opportunity for smaller, more specialized companies to thrive by focusing on niche segments or geographical regions. Furthermore, research and development efforts are focused on improving lithium extraction and processing methods to enhance efficiency and sustainability. The next decade will likely see continued consolidation in the industry, coupled with technological advancements that could either accelerate growth or potentially introduce disruptive innovations. The overall trajectory points towards sustained growth driven by the irrepressible demand for energy storage and the ongoing transition to a cleaner energy future, though careful navigation of geopolitical risks and environmental concerns will be crucial.

The global EV battery grade lithium carbonate market is experiencing robust growth, driven primarily by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) industry and the increasing demand for energy storage solutions. The market's expansion is fueled by government initiatives promoting EV adoption, advancements in battery technology leading to higher energy density and longer lifespan, and a growing awareness of environmental concerns surrounding fossil fuel-powered vehicles. While supply chain constraints and price volatility remain significant challenges, the long-term outlook remains positive, with a projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) significantly exceeding the global average economic growth rate. This growth is expected to continue through 2033, driven by the expanding EV market in both developed and emerging economies. Major players such as SQM, Albemarle, and Livent are actively investing in capacity expansion and technological advancements to meet the increasing demand. However, the market is not without its challenges. Geopolitical factors, resource scarcity, and environmental concerns related to lithium mining and processing present potential obstacles to sustainable growth. Furthermore, the development and adoption of alternative battery technologies could impact the long-term demand for lithium carbonate. Nevertheless, the current market trajectory strongly suggests substantial growth in the coming decade, presenting significant opportunities for industry participants. The market segmentation, though not explicitly provided, likely includes various grades of lithium carbonate based on purity and application, as well as geographic regions reflecting variations in demand and production capacity. Competition is intense among established players and newer entrants, particularly from China, which has become a dominant force in lithium production and processing. The increasing integration of the lithium supply chain, from mining to processing and battery manufacturing, is another important trend shaping the market dynamics. Future growth will be contingent upon addressing the challenges of resource sustainability, responsible mining practices, and securing stable and reliable supply chains. Successful players will be those that can effectively manage these complex factors, while capitalizing on the significant market opportunities presented by the rapid expansion of the EV sector.

The global lithium battery lithium carbonate market, valued at $31,440 million in 2025, is poised for substantial growth. While the exact CAGR isn't provided, considering the rapid expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) sector and the increasing demand for energy storage solutions, a conservative estimate of the Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) would be between 15% and 20% for the forecast period 2025-2033. This growth is primarily driven by the booming EV market, the rising adoption of renewable energy sources requiring robust energy storage, and the expanding applications of lithium-ion batteries in consumer electronics (3C batteries). Key market trends include advancements in battery technology leading to higher energy density and improved lifespan, increasing investments in lithium mining and processing, and a growing focus on sustainable and ethically sourced lithium. However, restraints include price volatility of lithium raw materials, geopolitical factors affecting supply chains, and environmental concerns associated with lithium extraction. The market is segmented by type (primarily lithium carbonate above 99.5% purity) and application (power batteries dominating the market share, followed by 3C batteries and other niche applications). Major players like SQM, Albemarle, and Tianqi Lithium are shaping the competitive landscape, constantly seeking to enhance production capacity and optimize supply chains to meet the surging global demand. The significant growth projected for this market is largely dependent on continued technological advancements in battery technology, governmental support for EV adoption and renewable energy infrastructure, and stable global economic conditions. Further research into more sustainable lithium extraction methods and the development of alternative battery chemistries are crucial for long-term market stability and responsible growth. The regional distribution of market share will likely see continued dominance from Asia-Pacific, specifically China, driven by its massive EV market and established lithium production capabilities, though North America and Europe are projected to witness considerable growth due to increased domestic production and policy incentives. This robust market presents significant opportunities for investors and businesses involved in the entire lithium battery value chain.