Zhong Guo Jing Ying Bao·2026-01-08 03:03Core Viewpoint - The lithium carbonate market is expected to experience a rebound in 2025, with prices showing a V-shaped recovery after hitting a low of 59,000 yuan/ton in June, eventually surpassing 130,000 yuan/ton by December, marking an increase of over 120% from the low point [1][2]. Price Trends - In early 2025, lithium carbonate prices fluctuated around 75,200 yuan/ton, dropping below 70,000 yuan/ton by the end of April and reaching a low of 59,000 yuan/ton in June [1]. - By July 2025, prices began to rebound, breaking through 65,000 yuan/ton on July 14, 70,000 yuan/ton on July 21, and closing at 76,680 yuan on July 24, eventually exceeding 120,000 yuan/ton by December 23 [2]. - The price increase is attributed to a combination of factors, including strong demand from the energy storage sector and a reduction in market inventory [2][3]. Demand and Supply Dynamics - The global demand for lithium carbonate is projected to reach 2 million tons by 2026, driven by the growth in electric vehicles and energy storage applications [6]. - The domestic market in China accounted for 63.3% of global power battery installations from January to October 2025, with significant contributions from leading companies [3]. - The new energy storage capacity in China exceeded 100 million kilowatts by September 2025, representing a growth of over 30 times compared to the end of the 13th Five-Year Plan [4]. Industry Performance - Companies in the lithium sector, such as Tianqi Lithium and Ganfeng Lithium, have seen significant stock price recoveries, with increases of over 160% and 173% respectively since their lows in April [3]. - Ganfeng Lithium reported a 364.02% year-on-year increase in net profit for the third quarter [3]. Future Outlook - The lithium market is expected to face uncertainties in 2026, with potential price corrections if demand from the energy storage sector does not meet expectations [7]. - The development of alternative technologies, such as sodium batteries, may introduce new dynamics to the market, although current production costs and scale are not yet comparable to lithium batteries [8].