[SMM Analysis] China's lithium carbonate imports in May 2025 released

According to customs data:

In May 2025, China's total imports of lithium carbonate were approximately 21,146 mt, down 25% MoM and 14% YoY. The average import price was approximately $9,392/mt, down 1.7% MoM from the average price in April.

Among them, imports of lithium carbonate from Chile were approximately 13,393 mt, down 34% MoM, accounting for about 63% of the total imports in this period. Imports of lithium carbonate from Argentina were approximately 6,626 mt, down 3% MoM, accounting for about 31% of the total imports in this period. Chile and Argentina remained the main source countries for China's lithium carbonate imports.

In April, China's lithium carbonate imports increased significantly, mainly due to the impact of shipping cycles, which led to a concentrated arrival of goods at ports. In May, although imports pulled back from the highs in April, they still remained at a relatively high level of over 20,000 mt. According to the latest export data from Chile's customs, the volume of lithium carbonate shipped to China in May was approximately 9,700 mt, down 38% MoM. In response, relevant overseas lithium chemicals producers stated that this was a normal fluctuation in shipments, also influenced by differences in statistical methods. It is expected that China's total imports of lithium carbonate will continue to fluctuate at highs.

In terms of exports, China exported 287 mt of lithium carbonate in May, down 156% MoM but up 35% YoY, mainly to Japan and India.

Data sources: General Administration of Customs, SMM