The expected increase in domestic lithium carbonate imports in March is significant, and it is expected that imports will remain at a high level in April

In March 2024, China imported approximately 19,043 tons of lithium carbonate, up 64% from the previous month and 9% compared to the same period last year. The average import price was $11,678 per ton. Of this, approximately 16,297 tons and 2,494 tons were imported from Chile and Argentina, respectively, accounting for 86% and 13% of the March imports. The largest customs clearance destination for lithium carbonate imports in March was Shanghai, totaling approximately 15,224 tons, which represents 80% of the total import volume.

Meanwhile, Chile exported about 16,095 tons of lithium carbonate to China in March, a figure largely consistent with its February exports to the country. Considering clearance and shipping cycle factors, it is expected that China's lithium carbonate imports will remain at high levels in April, providing some replenishment to the domestic spot market supply.