China's lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) output stood at 6,010 tonnes in February 2026, a decrease of 45.31% month-on-month and 20.19% year-on-year. February coincided with the Chinese New Year holiday, resulting in a shorter production period, and LCO material plants mainly focused on maintaining stable deliveries.
In March 2026, China's LCO output is projected to reach 8,590 tonnes, representing an increase of 42.93% MoM but a decrease of 11.99% YoY. While production rebounded compared to February due to the CNY holiday, it remained below pre-holiday levels, primarily due to downstream battery cell manufacturers front-loading demand, resulting in weaker purchasing. Market participants are largely adopting a wait-and-see approach, and production continues to be driven by long-term agreement deliveries.
Edited by Cassie Li, lixiangying@mysteel.com
