In March 2026, China's Co3O4 production reached 8,175 tonnes, up 6.58% month-on-month but down 12.99% year-on-year. In February, due to the Chinese New Year holiday, smelters operated for fewer production days. Coupled with the fact that LCO battery cell manufacturers had pulled forward part of their demand, Co3O4 production in March declined compared to January 2026.
In April 2026, China's Co3O4 production is expected to be 8,060 tonnes, down 1.41% month-on-month and 14.16% year-on-year. In April, as downstream LCO shipments continue to face headwinds and demand from the battery cell side has been pulled forward, raw material producers are maintaining production to fulfill long-term agreement deliveries. Consequently, the production is expected to continue decreasing in April.
Edited by Cassie Li, lixiangying@mysteel.com
