World Lithium

World Lithium

Growth in the world lithium market will total 8.9% annually through 2019 in volume terms.  Rapid expansion in the production of lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries for applications such as hybrid and electric vehicles (H/EVs) will drive advances.  Increasing use of industrial energy storage systems powered by Li-Ion batteries will also fuel sales gains.  
This report segments the lithium industry by Product and Market.  Data is provided in metric tons of lithium metal content.  The scope of this report also covers lithium mine production from brines and mineral ore deposits in each major country.
Major lithium products include: - Lithium Carbonate - Lithium Hydroxide - Lithium Mineral Concentrates
Lithium carbonate is the leading product type.  The fastest growth will be for lithium hydroxide, boosted by its performance advantages and expanding use in Li-Ion battery cathodes.  
Key lithium markets are: - Batteries (primary / rechargeable) - Glass & Ceramics - Lubricating Grease - Metallurgy
The fastest growth through 2019 is forecast for the leading batteries market, propelled by rapidly expanding Li-Ion battery capacity to meet growing demand in H/EV and electronics applications.  
World regions and countries covered in the study include: - North America  - Western Europe  - Asia/Pacific  - Central & South America  - Eastern Europe  - Africa/Mideast 
The strongest advances are expected for the Asia/Pacific region, as China boosts output of goods such as batteries, glass, and lubricating greases.  The launch of Tesla’s Li-Ion “gigafactory” in the US will drive strong advances in the US market through 2019.
The global lithium industry is highly concentrated with just a few major producers controlling the world’s largest deposits of the metal.  Leading suppliers include Bikita Minerals, FMC, Jiangxi Ganfeng Lithium, Qinghai Salt Lake Industry, Rockwood Lithium (Albemarle), Sichuan Tianqi Lithium Industries, Sichuan Yahua Industrial Group, Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile (SQM), and Talison Lithium.