INTELLIGENCE REPORT

Lithium Intelligence Report

July 13, 2026 · Intelligence Report · Lithium (SMM China spot)
BUYER: DEFENSIVE

Thesis: Lithium carbonate consolidating at 154,000 CNY/T (-0.65% WoW) as the market weighs tight H2 fundamentals against Jianxiawo restart speculation. The June 29 low at 151,750 appears to be a tactical floor — SMM expects persistent shortage in H2. The recovery to 165,250 (Jul 3) has partially reversed as traders take profits ahead of CATL restart news flow. Three structural supports remain intact: Zimbabwe export ban (124kt LCE), SMM forecast of H2 deficit, and ESS demand accelerating at +55% YoY. The 150,000-165,000 range reflects genuine uncertainty about supply timing, not demand destruction. Key catalyst in July: Sinomine maintenance shutdowns removing 65kt/yr through end of month. Near-term resistance at 165,000. Support at 145,000 if Jianxiawo restart confirmed.

SMM China Spot
154,000
-0.65% WoW
US$ Equivalent
~$21,390
USD/mt at 7.2 FX
YTD Change
+10.0%
from 140,000 Jan open
52-Week Range
66,650-194,000
CNY/T
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FACT: 14 · ESTIMATE: 9 · SPECULATION: 3 — Data as of July 13, 2026. Snapshot: lithium-snapshot-20260713.json.

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