中国锂电产业全面“走出去”

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese lithium battery industry is accelerating its international expansion, driven by global energy transition and domestic industrial upgrades, with significant structural changes expected by 2025 [1][2]. Industry Overview - The lithium battery industry in China is the largest globally, supplying 70% of battery materials and 60% of power batteries worldwide [2]. - The export value of lithium-ion batteries from China has increased from $15.94 billion in 2020 to $61.12 billion projected for 2024 [2]. Market Dynamics - The demand for lithium batteries is fueled by the booming global power battery and energy storage industries, leading to a continuous rise in battery shipments from China [2][3]. - From January to October 2025, China's power and other battery exports reached 228.1 GWh, a year-on-year increase of 43.9% [3]. Strategic Developments - Domestic lithium battery companies are evolving their "going out" strategies from merely exporting products to a more integrated approach involving capacity, technology, and capital [4]. - Leading companies like CATL are making significant progress in overseas expansions, with a factory in Hungary expected to complete its first phase by the end of 2025 [4]. Global Expansion Initiatives - Companies are actively pursuing global projects, such as Tianqi Lithium's initiatives in Morocco and the United States, with construction expected to start between late 2025 and early 2026 [5][6]. - Strategies for overseas expansion include "step-by-step factory establishment and localized procurement," ensuring compliance and building competitive advantages through technology transfer and joint ventures [6].