China's July Lithium Imports Up, Exports Down; Sulfate Imports Surge

Published: Aug 20, 2026 20:25

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According to customs data, in July China imported 26,752 mt of lithium carbonate, up 3% MoM and up 93% YoY. Among this, imports from Chile were 13,787 mt, accounting for 52% of total imports; imports from Argentina were 9,521 mt, accounting for 36%; and imports from Indonesia were 2,406 mt, accounting for 9%. From January to July, China accumulated imports of 206,000 mt of lithium carbonate, up 57% YoY on a cumulative basis.

In July, China exported 212 mt of lithium carbonate, down 19% MoM and down 42% YoY. From January to July, China cumulatively exported 2,560 mt of lithium carbonate, down 10% YoY on a cumulative basis.

In July, China imported 16,225 mt of lithium sulfate, up 20% MoM and up 48% YoY. From January to July, China cumulatively imported 100,800 mt of lithium sulfate, up 86% YoY on a cumulative basis. Among this, imports from Chile were 13,608 mt, and imports from Zimbabwe were 2,617 mt.

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