锂价跌破6万元/吨，再论锂价的超级 “周期熊”｜独家

Core Viewpoint - The lithium market is experiencing a "cyclical bear" phase due to a fundamental shift in supply and demand dynamics, leading to significant price declines and industry overcapacity [1][2][21]. Supply and Demand Dynamics - The lithium industry has seen a fundamental change in supply and demand since 2023, with significant capital entering upstream production while downstream demand has not kept pace, resulting in overcapacity [1][2]. - 2024 is expected to be a crucial year for lithium resource production, with many new projects coming online, but ongoing price declines have led to production halts and adjustments in strategy among mining companies [2][3]. Regional Supply Insights - Australian lithium projects are adjusting strategies in response to price pressures, with companies like Core Lithium and Arcadium announcing production halts [3][4]. - African lithium resources are emerging as a significant supply source, with a projected supply increase of 233% in 2024 and further growth in 2025 [7][8]. - Domestic lithium resources in China are concentrated, with a mix of spodumene and lepidolite, but environmental pressures are slowing production growth [9][10]. Production Forecasts - The total lithium supply from Australia is projected to increase from 39.09 million tons in 2023 to 43.18 million tons in 2025, while African supply is expected to grow from 4.53 million tons to 21.9 million tons in the same period [6][8][49]. - Domestic lithium production is expected to rise significantly, with spodumene projects contributing 8.64 million tons by 2025 [12][14]. Price Trends and Market Outlook - Lithium prices have seen a significant decline, with the main contract dropping to around 60,000 yuan/ton, reflecting a 22.23% decrease from the end of 2024 [1][51]. - The market is expected to remain oversupplied in 2025, with price levels projected between 60,000 and 90,000 yuan/ton, indicating ongoing pressure from high inventory levels [51]. Demand Projections - The demand for lithium is primarily driven by electric vehicle (EV) and energy storage sectors, which together account for approximately 70% of lithium consumption [22][35]. - Global EV sales are projected to reach 18.24 million units in 2024, with significant growth in China, while demand in Europe and the US is expected to face challenges due to policy shifts [22][24][28]. Inventory and Cost Considerations - Lithium carbonate inventory levels have been rising, indicating a supply-demand imbalance, with significant stockpiles reported as of early 2025 [37][47]. - The cost structure for lithium production varies significantly, with salt lake extraction being the most cost-effective method, while higher-cost projects may face challenges in the current market environment [40][46].