Key Market Indicators
China’s lithium exports are projected to reach nearly 14 million kilograms by 2026, up from 11 million kilograms in 2021. This is a 4.1% year-on-year growth rate. Since 1997, the country’s supply has risen by over 50%. In 2021, Belgium was the top exporter, with China coming in at third. Argentina, Belgium and China were the top three exporters in the same year. Meanwhile, Chinese lithium imports are estimated to reach almost 47 million kilograms by 2026, up from 38 million kilograms in 2021. This is a 3.6% year-on-year growth rate. Since 1997, demand in the country has increased by 12%. South Korea was the leading importer in 2021, with China coming in at second. China, Japan and the United States were the top three importers in the same year.
