Lepidolite Prices To Stay Stable, While Spodumene Prices Remain Bearish

Lepidolite prices stayed stable for the week ending October 19. Market supply and demand didn't change notably. Despite a tight lepidolite supply, demand was low due to lithium salt factories' cost concerns. As lithium salt prices edged up, major lepidolite mines tried to hike ore prices. Yet, transactions were slow, and buyers resisted hikes. The market largely remained steady. Lepidolite prices are expected to remain stable short-term.

CIF prices for spodumene concentrate fell during the week ending October 19. Some overseas mines cut Q4 spot delivery prices due to shipment volume concerns. The 6% grade spodumene concentrate spot price was around $2100/mt. Domestic buyers remained cautious, influenced by cost concerns. Some Australian mines kept their long-term order prices high. Consequently, few lithium salt companies showed interest in securing Q4 ores. Even with long-term price adjustments, the rates were deemed too high. Q4 imports from Australia are unlikely to match Q2 and Q3 levels. Spodumene import prices are predicted to drop in the short term.