[SMM Analysis] China's Lithium Carbonate Imports for September 2025 Released

According to customs data:

In September 2025, China's total lithium carbonate imports were approximately 19,597 mt, down 10% MoM, but up 20% YoY. The average import price was about $8,625/mt, up 0.8% MoM compared to the August average.

Among them, imports from Chile were about 10,797 mt, down 31% MoM, accounting for about 55% of the total imports; imports from Argentina were about 6,948 mt, up 63% MoM, accounting for about 35% of the total imports. Chile and Argentina remain the main sources of China's lithium carbonate imports.

According to the latest export data from Chilean customs, the volume of lithium carbonate shipped to China in September was approximately 11,000 mt, down 14% MoM. Overall, China's total lithium carbonate imports are expected to continue fluctuating at highs.

On the export side, China exported 151 mt of lithium carbonate in September, down 59% MoM and 9% YoY, mainly to Japan and South Korea.

Data source: General Administration of Customs, SMM