This week, spodumene prices showed a slight downward trend WoW. The main reasons were the downward fluctuation in lithium carbonate prices and the pessimistic expectations for subsequent lithium chemical prices. Some buyers exhibited moderate purchase willingness for high-priced lithium ore, forcing overseas ore prices to slightly decline. On the supply side, overseas Australian mines have been actively shipping recently, with CIF transaction prices ranging from $850-870/mt. Although there was a downward trend compared to earlier periods, prices remained at high levels. Domestic lithium ore production remained low, while shipments and port arrivals of African ore were lower than before due to the overseas rainy season and exchange rate fluctuations. The circulation of domestic concentrates was limited, and price fluctuations were relatively smaller compared to lithium carbonate.
For lepidolite, this week, the auction transaction price of 2.5% ore from Yichun mining companies was 2,260 yuan/mt, providing some price guidance for quotes from small and medium-sized traders. The supply of lepidolite from small and medium-sized miners mostly came from previous inventories. Due to high storage costs and capital turnover pressures, they showed a strong willingness to sell. However, given the current market risks, they also had a sentiment to stand firm on quotes, placing them in a dilemma, resulting in average sales performance. On the demand side, lithium chemical plants exhibited strong purchase willingness under the current limited supply of lepidolite concentrates. Therefore, they showed high enthusiasm for participating in lepidolite auctions. However, due to concerns about the ore quality from small and medium-sized suppliers, they maintained a strong price suppression mindset.
