Battery‑grade lithium carbonate spot prices have been fluctuating at a high level, holding firm at CNY 170,000–180,000 per tonne in April. Tightened supply, driven by Zimbabwe’s stricter export controls on lithium ore, has further supported the market. Meanwhile, lithium battery production remained robust, with April’s output reaching 235 GWh, up 7.3% month‑on‑month.
Fueled by solid demand from both power batteries and energy storage, lithium prices are expected to stay elevated in the near term. Industry forecasts indicate prices may climb above CNY 200,000/tonne in the first half of 2026 amid a persistent supply‑demand deficit. Given the bullish outlook and limited near‑term supply, we recommend clients place orders early to secure pricing and avoid potential shortages or further cost increases.