From Startup Fortune · · 1m 10s
Lithium futures jump 11% in China as AI data center demand collides with EV market
China's lithium futures surge 11% after AI data centers boost energy storage demand.
In brief
China's lithium futures surge 11% after AI data centers boost energy storage demand. Lithium carbonate prices jumped 11% in China as AI data centers increased energy storage demand, offsetting EV battery orders. Originally reported by Startup Fortune.
Lithium carbonate futures surge
Battery-grade lithium carbonate futures jumped 11% on October 24 to 164,900 yuan per metric ton at Guangzhou Futures Exchange.
AI data centers drive demand
China's energy storage installations grew 70% year over year to 189 GWh in 2025, offsetting seasonal EV battery dips.
Storage demand outpaces EV growth
Energy storage systems grew 50% last year versus 26% for EVs, signaling AI's impact on battery markets.
CATL's storage division expands
CATL's energy storage business grew 87.54% in six months as it targets AI data center infrastructure through stakes in VNET and Zhongheng Electric.
Jianxiawo mine remains closed
CATL's Jianxiawo lithium mine in Yichun, Jiangxi province, closed since August 2025 pending environmental approval.
Lithium prices surge
JPMorgan raised lithium carbonate price target to $18,000 per ton, with prices expected to reach 100,000 to 150,000 yuan per ton.
What to remember
Lithium carbonate prices jumped 11% in China as AI data centers increased energy storage demand, offsetting EV battery orders.
