According to customs data:
In July 2025, China's total lithium carbonate imports were approximately 13,845 mt, down 22% MoM and 43% YoY. The average import price was about $9,987/mt, a 1.3% decrease from the June average.
Of these, around 8,584 mt of lithium carbonate was imported from Chile, down 28% MoM, accounting for about 62% of the total imports; approximately 3,950 mt was imported from Argentina, down 22% MoM, making up about 29% of the total imports. Chile and Argentina remain the main sources of China's lithium carbonate imports.
According to the latest export data from Chilean customs, the amount of lithium carbonate shipped to China in July was about 14,000 mt, up 33% MoM. Overseas lithium chemical companies' full-year shipment guidance remained unchanged, with H2 shipment volumes expected to recover. Overall, it is anticipated that China's total lithium carbonate imports will continue to fluctuate at highs.
On the export side, China exported 366 mt of lithium carbonate in July, down 15% MoM but up 37% YoY, primarily to Japan and South Korea.
Data source: General Administration of Customs, SMM
