Secret Lithium Carbonate Deals China Locking South America Supply

Robert Gultig

5 January 2026

Secret Lithium Carbonate Deals China Locking South America Supply

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Written by Robert Gultig

5 January 2026

Introduction:

The global lithium carbonate market is currently experiencing a significant shift as China secures secret deals to lock in the supply from South America. This move is causing ripple effects in the industry, impacting production volumes and trade dynamics. In 2020, the global lithium carbonate market was valued at $1.2 billion, with a projected annual growth rate of 9.7% from 2021 to 2026.

Top 20 Secret Lithium Carbonate Deals China Locking South America Supply:

1. China’s Tianqi Lithium Corporation – Tianqi Lithium Corporation is one of the largest producers of lithium carbonate globally, with a production volume of 60,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s recent deals with South American suppliers have secured a significant portion of the region’s lithium carbonate supply.

2. SQM (Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile) – SQM is a key player in the lithium carbonate market, with a market share of 20% in 2020. The company’s agreements with Chinese buyers have strengthened China’s hold on South America’s lithium carbonate supply.

3. Albemarle Corporation – Albemarle Corporation is a major producer of lithium carbonate, with a production volume of 50,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s partnerships with Chinese firms have contributed to China’s dominance in securing South American supply.

4. Ganfeng Lithium – Ganfeng Lithium is a leading Chinese lithium producer, with a market share of 15% in 2020. The company’s strategic alliances with South American suppliers have bolstered China’s control over the region’s lithium carbonate market.

5. Lithium Americas Corp – Lithium Americas Corp is a key player in the lithium carbonate industry, with a production volume of 40,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s recent deals with Chinese partners have played a role in China’s efforts to secure South American supply.

6. Livent Corporation – Livent Corporation is a significant producer of lithium carbonate, with a market share of 10% in 2020. The company’s collaborations with Chinese entities have contributed to China’s increasing influence in the South American lithium carbonate market.

7. Orocobre Limited – Orocobre Limited is a prominent player in the lithium carbonate sector, with a production volume of 30,000 metric tons in 2020. The company’s partnerships with Chinese buyers have helped China solidify its position in South America’s lithium carbonate supply chain.

8. Minera Exar – Minera Exar is a key lithium project in Argentina, with a production capacity of 25,000 metric tons per year. The project’s agreements with Chinese investors have further strengthened China’s hold on South American lithium carbonate supply.

9. Maricunga Project – The Maricunga Project in Chile is a significant lithium development, with a production capacity of 20,000 metric tons per year. The project’s ties with Chinese firms have contributed to China’s efforts to secure South American supply.

10. Neo Lithium Corp – Neo Lithium Corp is a notable lithium explorer in Argentina, with a promising project in the country. The company’s potential partnerships with Chinese investors could impact China’s control over South America’s lithium carbonate market.

Insights:

The secret lithium carbonate deals between China and South America are reshaping the global supply chain and market dynamics. China’s strategic moves to secure supply from South America will have far-reaching implications for the industry, potentially leading to increased consolidation and competition among key players. As China strengthens its position in the lithium carbonate market, other regions and countries may need to reassess their strategies to ensure a stable supply of this critical resource. With the global demand for lithium carbonate expected to rise in the coming years, it is essential for stakeholders to closely monitor these developments and adapt to the changing landscape of the industry. In 2021, the lithium carbonate market is projected to reach a value of $1.5 billion, with China’s influence continuing to grow.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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