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Does Europe rely on Chinese refined lithium?

Europe’s dependence on Chinese refined lithium is a critical issue. China dominates the global refined lithium market, controlling 82% of the global refined capacity for Battery Grade Lithium Hydroxide Monohydrate (BG LHM) in 2024 and 60% for Battery Grade Lithium Carbonate . This reliance poses several risks:

Why is a stable lithium supply chain important?

A stable and secure lithium supply chain is crucial for Europe’s energy transition and achieving its climate goals. According to the European Commission, the global demand for lithium is projected to increase 14-fold by 2040 compared to 2020 levels. The exponential growth of EVs and energy storage systems should drive this surge.

Why is lithium important?

Energy Security: Lithium is essential for producing batteries used in EVs and renewable energy storage systems. A stable and secure lithium supply chain is crucial for Europe’s energy transition and achieving its climate goals.

Is a national lithium industry a threat to the regional battery supply chain?

Most European governments consider this a threat to the regional battery supply chain and have consequently launched national and regional initiatives to promote a domestic lithium industry. Back in April 2024, the EU has adopted the CRM Act or Regulation (EU) 2024/1252.

How does China influence the supply chain?

China governs the largest production shares within the supply chain (11 out of 12). China, Europe and the USA use capital power to boost impact across the supply chain. Political factors further strengthen China's control in mining. China's dominance in LFP-production exceeds 98 %.

Which materials are used in lithium ion batteries?

Lithium, nickel, manganese, and cobalt are of particular significance for the dominant lithium-ion battery (LIB) technology, primarily relying on lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (NMC) cathodes. Geographically, the global supply is heavily reliant on China with competition expected to intensify.