The global lithium market experienced significant upward pricing momentum, according to IMARC Group’s latest publication, Lithium Metal Price Trend, Index and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition, which provides updated insights for Q2 2025. Strong downstream demand from the electric vehicle (EV), energy storage, and consumer electronics sectors, combined with supply-side disruptions and geopolitical constraints, drove lithium metal prices higher across key markets such as North America, Asia Pacific, and Europe. Strategic inventory accumulation and regional production challenges further tightened supply, shaping the pricing trajectory in major consuming economies.
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The elevated lithium metal prices across key markets underscore the material’s critical role in high-performance industries such as electric vehicles, energy storage, and electronics, with sustained demand and supply-side constraints contributing to a stable or rising global price trend.
USA
Lithium metal prices in the USA reached USD 1,47,930/MT in June 2025, driven by increased demand from the EV and energy storage markets. Delays in domestic production, combined with high reliance on imports, exposed the market to elevated freight costs and currency fluctuations. Strategic stockpiling by battery manufacturers further tightened spot availability.
China
In China, lithium metal prices rose to USD 1,82,745/MT during the second quarter of 2025, amid strong demand from the battery and consumer electronics sectors. Output was constrained due to maintenance shutdowns and environmental audits, while export controls and power shortages in industrial zones further pressured supply chains.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom's lithium metal prices stood at USD 1,55,200/MT in Q2 2025, influenced by full import dependency and limited local refining capabilities. Continued demand from domestic automotive giga-factory projects and volatile shipping costs contributed to price volatility, while regulatory uncertainties around sourcing led to cautious procurement.
South Korea
Lithium metal prices in South Korea settled at USD 1,51,430/MT in June 2025 due to steady demand from the high-performance battery and energy storage sectors. Disruptions in raw material inflow from China and Chile, combined with increased energy tariffs and a weakening currency, raised processing costs.
Japan
In Japan, lithium metal prices stood at USD 1,15,500/MT in Q2 2025, shaped by automotive and consumer electronics sector demand. Rising logistical costs, longer lead times, and exchange rate fluctuations affected procurement, while inventory build-up ahead of regulatory changes influenced market dynamics.
The global lithium metal market reached a value of USD 3.02 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 16.27 Billion by 2033, expanding at a CAGR of 19.57% during 2025–2033. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of lithium metal across critical sectors such as electric vehicles (EVs), consumer electronics, and energy storage systems, where its high energy density, lightweight properties, and electrochemical performance are essential for next-generation battery technologies and efficient energy solutions.
Some of the key drivers contributing to this market expansion include the rapid scale-up of EV manufacturing, rising demand for grid-level energy storage, and increased production of portable electronic devices. Additionally, strategic investments in battery giga-factories, growing supply chain diversification efforts, and tightening environmental regulations on lithium extraction and processing are further propelling demand for high-purity lithium metal across global markets.
The rapid rise in electric vehicle (EV) production and sales is rising the market demand, as lithium-ion batteries remain essential for powering EVs. With global momentum shifting toward green transportation and stricter emission regulations, demand for high-purity lithium metal used in battery manufacturing has surged. In addition, lithium’s role in advanced energy storage systems supporting renewable integration into power grids is expanding due to its high energy density and cycle stability.
Additionally, increasing adoption of portable consumer electronics, rising use in aerospace and defense sectors, and ongoing advancements in battery technologies that enhance performance and reliability are some of the major factors providing boost to the market. Government incentives promoting clean energy and carbon reduction further support lithium metal demand, particularly for EVs and energy storage installations. These factors collectively reinforce lithium metal’s strategic importance across multiple high-performance industries.
IMARC’s report incorporates forecasting models that project near-term price movements based on evolving trade policies, raw material supply, and technological trends. These tools enable businesses to mitigate risk, enhance sourcing strategies, and support long-term planning.