Industry-wide losses led to frequent production reductions and shutdowns among lepidolite converters

In the week ending 21 December, lepidolite prices continued their decline, due to the sustained decrease in lithium salt prices. Many lepidolite converters sold below cost, dampening production enthusiasm. They delivered mostly under long-term contracts, with only limited spot orders. Frequent production reductions and shutdowns were prevalent, leading to subdued transactions. Short-term forecasts indicate persistently low supply and demand, likely resulting in further lepidolite price reductions.