Lithium Daily: Lithium prices supported by fermenting supply concerns and destocking expectations

Source: Mysteel Apr 17, 2026 09:22

For lithium carbonate, the supply concerns continued to ferment, pushing the prices up for several consecutive days. However, the demand end seemed to be mixed. While the LFP cathode production remained active, the electric vehicle sales were yet to pick up. Data showed that from April 1 to 12, 2026, retail sales of electric passenger vehicles fell 11% year-on-year, with transaction activity slowing in early April due to the Qingming Festival holiday. Nevertheless, the EV penetration rate reached 59.4%. Looking ahead, the market players are currently pricing in expectations of sustained inventory drawdown in May and June. Further upward movement will require validation from upcoming production schedule data.