In April 2026, China's Co3O4 production reached 7,010 tonnes, representing a month-on-month decrease of 14.25% and a year-on-year decrease of 25.35%. In April, as lithium cobalt oxide (LCO) battery cell manufacturers front-loaded part of their demand, their willingness to procure Co3O4 remained low. Smelters primarily fulfilled long-term agreement deliveries, leading to a decline in Co3O4 output for the month.
In May 2026, China's Co3O4 production is projected to reach 7,060 tonnes, representing a sequential increase of 0.71% but a year-on-year decrease of 25.37%. In May, due to continued sluggish shipments of downstream LCO and the front-loading of demand on the battery cell side, Co3O4 production is expected to see a sustained decline.
Source: Mysteel
Edited by Cassie Li, lixiangying@mysteel.com
