[SMM Analysis] May 2026: China lithium hydroxide imports 3,932t (-41% MoM, +4x YoY), exports 3,549t (-36% MoM & YoY).

Published: Jun 24, 2026 15:07

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According to customs data, in May 2026, China imported 3,932 tons of lithium hydroxide, down 41% month-on-month but up nearly fourfold year-on-year. Of this, 2,029 tons were imported from South Korea, accounting for 51% of total imports; another 30% came from Australia and Chile.

In May, China exported 3,549 tons of lithium hydroxide, down 36% month-on-month and down 36% year-on-year. Among exports, 2,799 tons went to South Korea and 608 tons to Japan.

Source: China Customs, SMM

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.

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