Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-01-11 05:54Core Viewpoint - The lithium battery recycling industry is transitioning from extensive development to a new phase characterized by refinement, standardization, and globalization, driven by rising prices of lithium and cobalt, along with supportive policies [1][9]. Industry Overview - Lithium battery recycling is likened to the development of "urban mines," converting waste batteries into valuable, recyclable resources [1]. - The industry is witnessing a transformation that is reshaping the resource supply landscape of the new energy sector, with a green circular market exceeding 100 billion yuan already formed [1][9]. Profitability and Market Dynamics - Since 2025, the prices of key metals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel have remained high, positively impacting the cash flow and profitability of recycling companies [3]. - For instance, a company reported a 59% year-on-year increase in battery recycling volume, reaching 36,000 tons in the first three quarters of 2025, leading to improved profit margins due to increased retired battery volumes and rising metal prices [3][9]. Policy and Regulatory Changes - In June 2025, a joint announcement by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, and the State Administration for Market Regulation stated that recycled black powder meeting national standards is not classified as solid waste, facilitating imports [3][4]. - This policy change addresses previous challenges in importing materials and allows the domestic battery recycling industry to participate in global resource allocation [3][4]. Capital and Capacity Expansion - Leading companies are adopting a dual strategy of "capacity + capital" to seize market opportunities, including new base construction, technological cooperation, and capital financing [4][5]. - For example, a company announced a 400 million yuan acquisition to enhance its circular economy strategy, while another company has established a processing capacity of 100,000 tons for waste lithium batteries [5][7]. Technological Advancements and Industry Collaboration - The industry is evolving from merely end-of-life disposal to becoming a crucial player in the entire battery lifecycle, with companies developing comprehensive value chains from battery recycling to remanufacturing [8]. - One company has achieved a lithium recovery rate exceeding 96.5% and has established partnerships with over 1,000 automotive and battery manufacturers, creating a closed-loop supply chain [8]. Market Outlook - The lithium battery recycling market is expected to grow significantly, with an annual growth rate exceeding 50% projected over the next 3 to 5 years, potentially reaching a market size of over 100 billion yuan by 2030 [9].