HUAYOU COBALT(SH:603799) Qi Huo Ri Bao·2026-02-27 00:16Group 1 - The lithium carbonate market has shown strong performance after the Spring Festival, with futures prices rising significantly, reaching a peak of 187,700 yuan/ton, and closing at 173,660 yuan/ton, a 3.47% increase on the day [1] - Analysts attribute the price increase to a combination of strong fundamentals and positive news, with expectations of a tighter supply-demand balance in the spot market after March [1][5] - The recent suspension of all raw ore and lithium concentrate exports by Zimbabwe's Ministry of Mines has raised concerns about supply, as Zimbabwe accounts for approximately 10% of global lithium supply [3][5] Group 2 - Companies such as Shengxin Lithium Energy, Zhongmin Resources, and Huayou Cobalt have lithium mining operations in Zimbabwe, with Huayou Cobalt's 50,000-ton lithium sulfate project expected to be operational soon [3][4] - The impact of Zimbabwe's export suspension is considered short-term, with companies like Yahua Group having already shipped their lithium concentrates, thus limiting the overall effect [4] - Analysts believe that Zimbabwe will likely not permanently halt exports, as such a move would significantly impact the global lithium supply and the country's economy [5][6] Group 3 - The lithium carbonate market is expected to maintain a strong fundamental outlook, with increased shipments from Chile anticipated to alleviate some supply tightness, although overall inventory levels remain low [5][6] - Demand from material companies is projected to improve in March, with expectations of returning to full production capacity, further supporting lithium carbonate prices [6]