Xin Lang Cai Jing·2025-08-20 02:44Core Viewpoint - The price of lithium carbonate has experienced fluctuations due to supply concerns, particularly following production halts by major companies, but the long-term outlook suggests a supply surplus will limit further price increases [1] Price Movements - As of August 19, the benchmark price for battery-grade lithium carbonate is 82,733 yuan/ton, reflecting a 16% increase from the beginning of the month and a 28.27% increase month-over-month [1] - The industrial-grade lithium carbonate benchmark price stands at 81,166 yuan/ton, showing a 15.46% increase from the start of the month and a 28.5% increase month-over-month [1] Supply Chain Disruptions - Recent production halts at CATL's mining operations in Jiangxi due to expired mining permits have raised concerns about supply tightening, contributing to a significant price surge [1] - Additionally, Albemarle's lithium processing plant in La Negra, Chile, faced temporary shutdowns due to an acid pipeline explosion, further exacerbating supply issues and stimulating price increases [1] Market Outlook - Despite short-term price volatility driven by supply-side disruptions, analysts believe that the fundamental market condition of supply exceeding demand remains unchanged, indicating limited potential for further price increases in the long term [1]