According to customs data,
China's total lithium carbonate imports in August 2025 amounted to approximately 21,847 mt, up 58% MoM and up 25% YoY. The average import price was about $8,553/mt, down 14% MoM compared to the July average.
Among these, imports from Chile totaled approximately 15,608 mt, up 82% MoM, accounting for about 71% of the total imports; imports from Argentina were approximately 4,253 mt, up 8% MoM, accounting for about 19% of the total. Chile and Argentina remain the primary sources of China's lithium carbonate imports.
Latest export data from Chilean customs show that shipments to China in August were around 13,000 mt, down 5% MoM. Overseas lithium chemical enterprises maintained their full-year shipment guidance, with H2 shipment volumes expected to recover. Overall, China's total lithium carbonate imports are projected to continue fluctuating at highs.
On the export side, China exported 369 mt of lithium carbonate in August, up 0.8% MoM and up 57% YoY, mainly to Japan and South Korea.
Data source: General Administration of Customs, SMM
