Zheng Quan Ri Bao·2025-05-29 16:07Core Viewpoint - The price of battery-grade lithium carbonate has been continuously declining in 2023, with significant drops observed compared to previous months and the same period last year [1][2][3]. Price Trends - As of May 29, 2023, the price of battery-grade lithium carbonate was 60,200 yuan/ton, down 1.63% from the previous day and 44.97% lower than the same time last year [1][2]. - The price has decreased from approximately 78,800 yuan/ton at the beginning of the year [1]. Supply and Demand Dynamics - The current market is experiencing a reduction in production capacity for battery-grade lithium carbonate, with expectations of supply-side cutbacks as prices continue to fall [2]. - The industry is facing a long-term oversupply situation, which is expected to suppress any potential price rebounds [2][3]. - The breakeven price for lithium carbonate processing companies is generally considered to be around 70,000 yuan/ton, but current prices have fallen below this threshold, leading many companies to reduce or halt production [2]. Industry Impact - The decline in lithium carbonate prices has negatively affected the performance of lithium-related listed companies, with most reporting revenue declines in 2024 [4]. - Companies are adjusting their cost structures and accelerating the development of domestic and international salt lake capacities to maintain profitability [4]. - For example, Qinghai Salt Lake Industry Co., Ltd. plans to apply for a project loan of up to 1.8 billion yuan to support the construction of a 40,000-ton/year lithium salt integrated project [4]. Future Outlook - The supply of lithium carbonate is expected to continue growing from June to August 2023, while demand may enter a seasonal downturn [3]. - The industry anticipates that the overall market will remain in an oversupply situation until significant production cuts occur at mining operations [3].