Lithium carbonate prices in China fell to CNY 115,000 per tonne in October, the lowest level so far this year, as weaker demand combined with fresh signs of ample supply.
From next year, the EU will cap annual imports of Chinese hybrid electric vehicles at 350,000 units. According to the European Commission, this measure is expected to cut China’s market share in the bloc by half, reducing orders from regional battery manufacturers, particularly after recent data revealed lithium inventories were higher than previously thought.
Industry group SMM revised its methodology for calculating inventory, resulting in a 175,000-tonne upward adjustment to Chinese lithium stockpiles—roughly double earlier estimates. This reassessment has coincided with a more favorable outlook for Australian suppliers. Mineral Resources has restarted production at the Bald Hill lithium mine after an 18‑month suspension, while Core Lithium has resumed operations at its Finniss project.