China's Lithium Carbonate Output In September And Forecast For October

SHANGHAI, Oct 11 (SMM) –

In September, the production of lithium carbonate in China was 41,724 mt, a decrease of 7% MoM but an increase of 27% YoY. In terms of lithium extraction from spodumene, although there were new projects ramping up and production switching, many enterprises reduced or halted production due to outsourcing and raw material issues, resulting in a decrease in spodumene-based lithium carbonate production. As for lithium extraction from lepidolite, a reduction in externally sourced ore combined with plant maintenance led to a continued decrease in lepidolite-based lithium carbonate production. In terms of lithium extraction from salt lakes, seasonal factors resulted in an overall decrease in production. In terms of recycling, high costs and losses, coupled with a decrease in battery scrap, led to a reduction in recycled lithium carbonate production. It is expected that in October, although there will be ongoing production ramp-ups from switching projects, the declining lithium salt prices will cause continued losses for smelters who rely on external raw materials, forcing them to reduce or halt production. Additionally, a leading enterprise is expected to undergo maintenance, further contributing to a decrease in production. The production in October is projected to be 38,613 mt, a decrease of 7% MoM but an increase of 13% YoY.