Zhong Guo Zheng Quan Bao·2026-01-08 22:01Core Viewpoint - The lithium battery industry is experiencing a significant investment boom, driven by increasing demand for energy storage and stable growth in power battery installations, leading to a tight supply-demand balance in 2026 [4][6]. Group 1: Company Expansion Plans - Longpan Technology plans to invest up to 2 billion yuan to build a new production base for 240,000 tons of high-pressure lithium iron phosphate annually, as existing capacity cannot meet customer demand [1][2]. - In addition to Longpan Technology, several companies, including Fulin Precision, Dongfang Zirconium, and Xinzhou Bang, have announced investment plans for lithium battery projects, continuing the expansion trend from 2025 [1][2]. - Longpan Technology has previously raised funds to build projects with capacities of 110,000 tons and 85,000 tons of high-performance phosphate-based cathode materials, with ongoing capacity expansion efforts [2]. Group 2: Industry Investment Trends - Since 2025, over 282 investment projects in the lithium battery industry chain have been announced in China, with a total investment exceeding 820 billion yuan, marking a year-on-year increase of over 74% [2]. - The investment trend is not only domestic but also expanding internationally, with companies like Xinzhou Bang planning to invest approximately 260 million USD in a lithium-ion battery materials project in Saudi Arabia [3]. Group 3: Market Dynamics - The surge in lithium battery investments is attributed to multiple factors, including the explosive growth in energy storage demand, steady increases in power battery installations, and rapid technological advancements [4][5]. - The industry has transitioned from a state of oversupply to a tight balance since mid-2025, with expectations of continued investment momentum into 2026 due to strong demand growth [6][7]. - Companies are increasingly adopting a rational approach to expansion, focusing on "order capacity" to avoid blind investments and ensure sustainable growth [6][7].