中国能源报·2025-11-10 08:29Core Viewpoint - The profitability of the lithium industry is expected to continue recovering due to multiple driving factors, including the sustained growth in global energy storage and power battery demand, which is boosting lithium salt demand and optimizing the supply-demand structure [1][3]. Group 1: Profit Recovery of Lithium Companies - Several lithium companies, including Tianqi Lithium and Ganfeng Lithium, have reported significant recovery in their financial performance for the third quarter, driven by the rebound in lithium prices [3][4]. - The price of battery-grade lithium carbonate has rebounded to around 80,650 yuan/ton after a decline earlier in the year, positively impacting the revenues of lithium companies [5]. - Tianqi Lithium achieved an operating income of 7.397 billion yuan in the first three quarters, with a net profit of 180 million yuan, recovering from a loss of 5.701 billion yuan in the same period last year [5]. - Ganfeng Lithium reported an operating income of 14.625 billion yuan, a year-on-year increase of 5.02%, and a net profit of 26 million yuan, up 103.99% year-on-year, with a significant increase of 364.02% in the third quarter [5][6]. Group 2: Performance Variability Among Companies - Despite the overall recovery, there is still performance variability among lithium companies due to differences in production costs and resource conditions, with some companies still facing losses [6][7]. - For instance, Shengxin Lithium Energy reported a net loss of 752 million yuan in the first three quarters, with losses expanding by 62.96% year-on-year [6]. Group 3: Cost Optimization Efforts - Companies are focusing on cost control and resource self-sufficiency to enhance their competitive edge and mitigate risks associated with industry cyclicality [8][9]. - Salt Lake Co. has implemented a dual strategy of full industry chain collaboration and lean management to improve cost control and operational efficiency [9]. - Ganfeng Lithium aims to increase its lithium resource self-sufficiency rate to 50%-60% this year, with plans for further improvement as production capacity increases [9]. Group 4: Business Expansion and Innovation - Lithium companies are actively seeking new growth points through increased R&D investment and business expansion, particularly in solid-state battery technology [10][12]. - Yahua Group is advancing the development of lithium sulfide and solid-state electrolytes, with plans to start pilot production by 2026 [12]. - The industry is optimistic about the future demand for lithium driven by the growth of electric vehicles and energy storage markets, despite potential market fluctuations [11][12].