Core Viewpoint - The recent strong rebound of lithium carbonate futures, following a significant correction, indicates a shift in market logic from macroeconomic sentiment to fundamental drivers [1] Group 1: Supply Dynamics - In January, lithium carbonate production saw a slight month-on-month decline, with February's supply contraction exceeding market expectations, as domestic production was reported at 88,300 tons, down 8.2% [2] - The supply contraction is characterized by both proactive maintenance and passive bottlenecks, with significant reductions in production from Sichuan and Jiangxi due to seasonal maintenance and environmental review delays [2] - The recovery progress of the Jiangxi Jianxiawo lithium mine is severely lagging, impacting supply flexibility for the first half of 2026, while Australian lithium projects are also not meeting recovery expectations [2] Group 2: Demand Trends - Despite the seasonal downturn, the demand for lithium remains robust, driven by improved export tax rebate policies for lithium batteries, leading to a notable "not-so-dull" demand characteristic [6] - February production of lithium iron phosphate is expected to be 383,200 tons, down 5.48% month-on-month, while ternary cathode materials are projected to decline by 14.05% to 73,300 tons, indicating varying demand across material segments [6] - Market expectations for future demand are optimistic, with significant developments in energy storage policies and a push for battery exports ahead of tax changes, which are expected to boost lithium carbonate consumption [10] Group 3: Inventory and Market Structure - Lithium carbonate social inventory continues to decline, reaching 105,000 tons, a 26% reduction from the July 2025 peak, with a notable shift in inventory structure indicating reduced pressure from production to consumption [11] - The current inventory levels show a significant decrease in stocks at smelters and traders, while downstream material manufacturers have increased their inventories due to pre-holiday stockpiling [11] Group 4: Market Outlook - In the short term, the balance sheet for February and March may shift from expected inventory reduction to slight accumulation due to concentrated shipments from Chile, with uncertain purchasing rhythms post-holiday [12] - Mid-term expectations suggest that downstream production may recover to high levels in March, with potential price increases in April and May, supported by low inventory levels and ongoing policy benefits [12][13] - The equilibrium in supply and demand is likely to remain intact until the Jiangxi mine resumes production, with continued upward pressure on lithium carbonate prices anticipated [13]