LiCarbonate Daily - March 21st Overview

Published: Mar 21, 2024 19:18

Source: SMM

Save

On March 21st, lithium carbonate futures rose by 1.34% to 117,350 yuan/ton, while spot prices remained stable at 112,550 yuan/ton amidst selective purchasing behavior.

Futures Show Positive Momentum: On March 21st, the lithium carbonate 2407 main contract saw a continuation of its upward trajectory, marking a 1.34% increase. It opened at 118,000 yuan/ton and settled at 117,350 yuan/ton, with trading volume at 223,038 and open interest rising to 208,023, a gain of 3,426 from the previous day. The day's activity featured a slight downward fluctuation before a rebound towards the end of the morning session, with the contract ultimately closing with gains.

Spot Market Holds Steady: The spot prices for battery-grade lithium carbonate remained unchanged, ranging between 110,000 and 115,100 yuan/ton, with an average price of 112,550 yuan/ton. The SMM battery-grade lithium carbonate index reflected a modest increase, rising by 305 yuan to 111,662 yuan/ton. Meanwhile, industrial-grade lithium carbonate prices saw a slight boost, with the average price climbing to 108,000 yuan/ton, up by 500 yuan.

Market Sentiments and Dynamics: Lithium carbonate suppliers maintained stable pricing, with some noting a slight uptick in transaction prices for industrial-grade lithium carbonate. Downstream cathode manufacturers and other buyers indicated a lukewarm interest in procuring battery-grade lithium carbonate, showing a preference for lower-priced industrial and near-battery-grade materials, leading to relatively subdued overall trading activity in the spot market.

Concluding Thoughts: The lithium carbonate market on March 21st highlighted a nuanced balance between futures gains and a steady spot market, underpinned by strategic pricing and cautious demand from downstream sectors. With the futures market demonstrating resilience and the spot market showing steady prices amidst selective purchasing attitudes, the landscape suggests a cautious but stable approach to navigating the current market dynamics, anticipating future shifts in supply and demand.

If you have any questions regarding the industry data (e.g. how this can affect your business), or would like to know more comprehensive pricing info on Lithium Carbonate. Please feel free to reach out to me:

Robin He

SMM Li-ion Battery Materials Department

E: robinhe@smm.cn | T: +86-21-51595884

Futures market Market review Output SMM price price of metal metal prices Energy Storage EV New Energy new energy prices Lithium Prices

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM‘s internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

For any inquiries or to learn more information, please contact: lemonzhao@smm.cn

For more information on how to access our research reports, please contact:service.en@smm.cn

Related News

Mar 13, 2026 19:55

[SMM Analysis] ITC Rejects Tariffs on Chinese Graphite Anodes, Final Duties Not Imposed

[SMM Analysis] On March 12, 2026, the US International Trade Commission (ITC) ruled against imposing tariffs on graphite imports from China. Below is the complete timeline of the US anti-dumping and countervailing duty (AD/CVD) investigation into China’s active anode material (graphite anode) imports, the duty rates at each stage, and the latest outcome as of March 12, 2026.

Mar 13, 2026 19:55

Mar 13, 2026 17:48

NDRC Approves Hami-Dunhuang Third 750 kV Transmission Line Project

Recently, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) issued the Reply on the Approval of the Hami–Dunhuang Third 750 kV Transmission Line Project, formally approving the Xinjiang Hami–Dunhuang Third 750 kV Transmission Line Project. The implementation of this project was of great significance for improving the backbone structure of the main power grid in Northwest China, strengthening the mutual support capacity between the Gansu and Xinjiang power grids, and enhancing Xinjiang’s capacity to absorb new energy. According to previously disclosed environmental impact assessment information, the project had a total static investment of 1.3509 billion yuan and was scheduled for completion in March 2027.

Mar 13, 2026 17:48

Mar 13, 2026 17:44

Jijing UHV DC Project Enters Final Feasibility Stage, Aiming for 2029 Operation

On March 12, it was learned from State Grid Jilin Electric Power Co., Ltd. that the project to transmit power from the Songliao Clean Energy Base in Northeast China to North China (the “Jijing UHV DC Project”) officially entered the final stage of the feasibility study. According to the plan, the project is expected to complete project approval in 2026, enter the substantive construction phase in 2027, and be completed and put into operation in 2029.

Mar 13, 2026 17:44