Lithium Chloride Market

Lithium Chloride Market Outlook (2025 to 2035)

The lithium chloride market is valued at USD 1.5 billion in 2025. According to Fact.MR estimates, it will increase at a CAGR of 6.3% and be USD 2.6 billion by 2035.

In 2024, the industry witnessed a period of gradual growth, fueled by demand-driven developments and not sweeping, large-scale trends. One of the leading drivers of growth was the continued increases in lithium-ion battery production, as lithium chloride was a key precursor in the synthesis of lithium metal anodes. This increase was inextricably linked to the escalating use of electric vehicles (EVs) and the increasing consumer electronics market.

Asian manufacturers, especially in China, increased their battery manufacturing capacity to supply both domestic and international EV demand. China alone, which had consumed about a quarter of the world's lithium chloride in 2022, continued to expand its dominance in 2024 with state-backed production facilities and strategic raw material acquisition.

Outside of battery production, the solid state of lithium chloride also became increasingly popular in specialized industrial uses, especially as a brazing flux for metalworking and as a desiccant for dehumidifiers. But the industry had its challenges. Manufacturers struggled with the expense of lithium chloride purification and were questioned about the environmental impact of its extraction and processing.

Forward to 2025 and beyond, the business will continue to be on the upswing. Accelerating growth in EV penetration, increasing the number of smart devices, and investment in city infrastructure will drive demand for lithium chloride. At the same time, technological developments designed to bring down purification expense and minimize the impact on the environment will increase efficiency in production and regulatory conformance. Together, these changes put the industry on a platform for steady, long-term expansion amidst changing industrial and sustainability patterns.

Key Metrics

Metric	Value
Estimated Global Size in 2025	USD 1.5 billion
Projected Global Size in 2035	USD 2.6 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	6.3%

Fact.MR Survey Results for Industry Dynamics Based on Stakeholder Perspectives

Fact.MR's Q4 2024 stakeholder survey of 500 respondents across North America, Western Europe, China, Japan, and South Korea finds convergence and divergence in the perception and prioritization of product across industries. 78% of respondents listed battery-grade purity and supply chain stability as their top purchase drivers, followed by 71% mentioning environmental compliance and long-term procurement contracts as essential to their procurement strategies.

U.S. and Chinese stakeholders highlighted the significance of price hedge mechanisms in the face of volatile lithium carbonate prices, whereas responses from European participants highlighted the significance of REACH compliance and circular processing ability.

In South Korea and Japan, players were concerned about purification bottlenecks and constrained domestic production that increased reliance on imports. Japanese EV producers emphasized uniform ion-exchange efficiency as essential for downstream cathode applications. South Korean players, particularly in the electronics industry, urged more stable forms of anhydrous product to ensure product reliability during high-precision soldering operations.

Cost inflation was a common concern, with 83% of respondents naming higher costs in logistics, purification chemicals, and waste treatment regulation compliance. Inconsistent lithium feedstock quality and increasing permitting delays for new extraction and processing plants were other concerns.

Nevertheless, most stakeholders, almost 69%, reported a high intention to invest in closed-loop processing technology and localized alliances to cut emissions and enhance value chain transparency. This change emphasizes a changing marketplace in which localized regulatory forces and next-generation battery requirements are dynamically redefining procurement and production paradigms.

Impact of Government Regulation

Country/Region	Regulatory Impact
U.S.	According to the EPA, lithium chloride falls under EPA and TSCA compliance for chemical imports and manufacturing. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) encourages domestic lithium processing via tax incentives and subsidies. DOE grants for battery supply chain localization also boost demand. Companies must meet OSHA hazardous material handling standards and EPA reporting requirements for environmental discharge.
China	Production is tightly linked to government-controlled mining quotas. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) sets purity standards for battery-grade lithium chloride. Environmental compliance under China's Ecological and Environmental Protection Law mandates water recycling and tailings management. Exporters must also comply with MOFCOM export registration and licensing for minerals.
Germany	Subject to REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation. Any product imports or production must comply with stringent toxicity, worker safety, and environmental handling rules. Additionally, Germany offers BAFA export incentives for battery raw material recycling. Firms must demonstrate sustainable sourcing and CO₂ footprint reduction for eligibility.
France	Similar to Germany under REACH. Specific emphasis from ADEME (French Environment and Energy Management Agency) on circular material use, which encourages lithium recovery and cleaner production methods. Producers may be eligible for green industrial funding under the France 2030 plan, but must comply with CSR due diligence obligations.
Italy	Regulated under REACH and national chemical safety regulations via ISPRA (Institute for Environmental Protection and Research). It is listed under restricted-use chemicals for some water discharge zones. Italy also applies waste classification rules that impact lithium-containing byproduct disposal. Companies must also comply with ISO 14001 environmental management certification for exports.
South Korea	Supervised by the Ministry of Environment and K-REACH. South Korea requires extensive chemical registration and hazard communication protocols. The importers must pre-register under K-REACH Article 10. The government also funds battery raw material R&D under the K-BATTERY Alliance. Regulatory delays for advanced refining units are a known barrier.
Japan	Governed by the Chemical Substances Control Law (CSCL) and the Industrial Safety and Health Law. It is classified as a controlled substance and must meet hazard labeling and workplace exposure limits. Companies must obtain METI approval for the production and storage of large quantities. Incentives are available through the Green Innovation Fund for low-emission lithium production.
Australia	The production is covered under the EPBC Act and National Pollutant Inventory regulations. Exporters must comply with hazardous materials transport laws and environmental permits issued by state governments. Australia promotes Battery Strategy 2030, which includes grants for local refining and downstream integration. No REACH equivalent, but firms often adopt ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 for global export readiness.
New Zealand	Less vertically integrated than Australia, but requires compliance under the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act (HSNO). Importers and manufacturers must maintain chemical safety data sheets and meet WorkSafe NZ standards. While not a major producer, firms involved in R&D and specialty applications must adhere to GHS classification and sustainable procurement policies.

Market Analysis

The industry is set on a growth trajectory driven primarily by surging demand from the electric vehicle and energy storage sectors. As global battery production scales, manufacturers and chemical processors with access to low-cost, high-purity products and sustainable processing technologies stand to benefit most. Conversely, producers operating in high-regulation, high-cost environments without innovation investment risk margin compression and declining competitiveness.

Top Strategic Imperatives, Risk Assessment, and Watchlist for Stakeholders 

In order to maintain momentum and seize new opportunities in the industry, corporate leaders need to prioritize three strategic imperatives. First, firms should move quickly to invest in green extraction and purification technologies like direct lithium extraction (DLE) and closed-loop processing in a bid to minimize environmental footprint and production costs.

Second, synchronization of supply chains with regional battery production clusters in joint ventures or long-term offtake deals will secure demand and limit geopolitical risk. Third, the stakeholders must consider backward integration into spodumene or brine sources or forward integration into lithium-ion battery components to drive greater value realization along the supply chain.

Critical risks to track are changing regulatory environments, particularly environmental requirements and export regulations, which have a high-probability and high-impact potential because of increasing scrutiny on lithium supply chains. Price volatility in lithium hydroxide and lithium carbonate, which tends to impact products' margins, is a medium-probability but high-impact risk. Supply chain disruptions in concentrated mining regions like South America and China are a medium-probability, high-impact risk due to geopolitical tensions or environmental resistance.

In 2025, there are three actions that should be prioritized by stakeholders. Firstly, initiate pilot projects for cleaner production. Secondly, obtain strategic MOUs with battery original equipment manufacturers and producers. Thirdly, develop localized refining capacity in politically secure locations to provide cover against potential supply or trade disruptions.

For the Boardroom

To stay ahead, the board must prioritize vertical integration into the product value chain by securing long-term access to upstream brine or spodumene sources and co-investing in downstream battery-grade conversion facilities. This intelligence signals a clear shift toward regionalization and sustainability in lithium supply, requiring a roadmap that blends geopolitical risk mitigation with green chemistry innovation.

The board should direct capital toward breakthrough purification technologies that reduce water and energy intensity, while simultaneously pursuing strategic partnerships with battery manufacturers in North America, Europe, and East Asia. With regulatory scrutiny intensifying and pricing volatility persisting, agility in procurement, localization of refining, and ESG compliance will no longer be optional but foundational to leadership.

Segment-wise Analysis

By Form

The solid segment is expected to be the most profitable, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035. Solid form is extensively applied owing to its stability, ease of handling, and hygroscopicity, which renders it very effective in dehumidification, brazing fluxes, and chemical synthesis. They can be used effectively in absorbing moisture from the air in its solid state, and it is therefore used in industrial drying systems and air conditioning systems.

Moreover, its solid state has improved storage and transportation properties than its liquid form, with less possibility of spillage or contamination. The stability and high purity of the solid form also make it good for accurate chemical processes, hence its extensive use in industrial, metallurgical, and chemical manufacturing industries.

By Type

The anhydrous segment is emerging as a highly lucrative service category, projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.2% from 2025 to 2035. Anhydrous type is widely used because of its vital function in high-purity and moisture-sensitive industrial applications, especially lithium-ion battery manufacturing and organic synthesis. Its anhydrous state makes it extremely desirable in applications where moisture can taint chemical reactions or lower the efficiency of the product.

For battery applications, anhydrous type allows the formation of high-performance electrolytes and preserves the necessary anhydrous state in electrode fabrication. Moreover, its higher solubility in polar solvents and thermal stability render it a choice for metallurgical applications, including brazing and welding fluxes. Its anhydrous nature also provides better control over reactivity, making it a requirement for laboratories and industries that require consistent, moisture-free compounds.

By Purity

The 5N segment is expected to be among the most profitable, expanding at a CAGR of 8.5% between 2025 and 2035. 5N purity is applied broadly because of its high purity, which is very important for applications that demand high performance in advanced technology fields like electronics, pharmaceuticals, and high-quality battery production.

5N lithium chloride's ultra-high purity minimizes contaminants, which is perfect for delicate processes where trace impurities can influence the final product's quality and performance. In lithium-ion battery manufacturing, for instance, 5N lithium chloride is utilized to produce high-grade electrolytes that enhance the performance and lifespan of the battery.

By Function

The dehumidifier segment remains the dominant and consistently lucrative user base and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.3% during the forecast period. Use as a dehumidifier for product is prevalent, as it possesses extremely efficient hygroscopicity that results in exceptionally great moisture adsorption capabilities. When used as an extremely efficient desiccant, they reduce humidity considerably both industrially and commercially to effectively protect equipment, products, and materials against water-related damage.

Its capacity to adsorb water vapor even under low humidity conditions makes it a popular option for climate control systems in applications where moisture can lead to corrosion, mold, or degradation of sensitive materials. In electronics, pharmaceutical, and food processing industries, low humidity must be maintained, and lithium chloride's efficiency in dehumidification ensures that product quality and operational efficiency are protected.

By Application

Lithium chloride is extensively utilized in the manufacture of batteries because of its pivotal position in the production of lithium-ion batteries, which are vital for charging electric vehicles (EVs), portable devices, and renewable energy storage systems. It is used as a precursor during the synthesis of high-purity lithium salts, which are key ingredients in the manufacture of the electrolyte employed in these batteries.

With the increased need for lithium-ion batteries spurred by the electric vehicle revolution and the use of renewable energy, the role of product in battery manufacturing has become more crucial. In addition, its effective and stable application in battery manufacturing contributes to higher-capacity, longer-lasting batteries, and thus it is a preferred option among manufacturers who want to improve the performance and longevity of their products. The battery production segment is expected to be among the most profitable, expanding at a CAGR of 8.5% between 2025 and 2035.

Country-wise Analysis

U.S.

In the United States, the industry is likely to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2035. The industry in the U.S. is set to experience a stable growth trajectory with the growth in the electric vehicle (EV) industry and advancements in battery technology.

The country's large automobile industry and the growing demand for renewable energy sources are reasons why lithium-ion batteries are seeing higher demand, with a product having a pivotal role to play. Governmental incentives and policy initiatives supporting clean energy also further drive this growth pattern.

Moreover, the U.S. is also seeing huge investments in local lithium production and processing plants to decrease reliance on imports and fortify the supply chain. Nevertheless, issues like environmental factors and regulatory challenges can affect the rate of growth. Generally, the industry in the U.S. will continue to enjoy a robust growth rate, backed by technological advancements and strategic plans. ​

UK

The UK’s sales are expected to register a CAGR of 5.8% in the assessment term. Government policies to ban internal combustion engine vehicles by 2030 have catalyzed investments in electric vehicle infrastructure and battery production.

Though the UK has limited indigenous lithium resources, partnerships with international players and investment in recycling technologies are supporting supply chain security. Demand for product is also boosted by the development of the electronics industry and technology advances in energy storage solutions. Moreover, the industry is confronted with supply chain reliance and high requirements for infrastructure development. Even so, the UK's strategic emphasis on sustainability and innovation sets it up for stable expansion. ​

France

The industry is predicted to grow at a rate of 6.0% CAGR in France in the assessment period. The government's encouragement of EV adoption and investment in battery manufacturing plants are major drivers of the demand for lithium chloride.

France's robust chemical industry and research base also contribute to the development of lithium processing and applications. Partnerships with European nations are designed to create a strong and independent battery supply chain in the region. Moreover, the industry will have to overcome issues such as environmental legislation and competition from entrenched global players. With ongoing emphasis on innovation and sustainability, France is in a good position to increase its contribution to the industry.

Germany

In Germany, the industry is anticipated to achieve a CAGR of 6.2% from 2025 to 2035, underpinned by the nation's dominance in automobile production and engineering prowess. The shift towards electric mobility, complemented by government support and tough emission norms, is driving demand for lithium-ion batteries.

Germany's efforts to build up domestic battery manufacturing capacity and invest in research and development are essential to drive growth. The country's robust industrial foundation and dedication to sustainability further strengthen its position in the industry. Additionally, dependency on foreign raw materials and the necessity of major infrastructure outlays pose challenges. Through its technological acumen and strategic collaborations, Germany is likely to set the tone for the future of the industry. ​

Italy

In Italy, the industry is projected to grow at a 5.5% CAGR during the forecast period, based on the modernization of Italy's transportation infrastructure and the adoption of renewable energy options. Governmental programs supporting EV use and investment in battery production are stimulating the demand for lithium chloride.

Italy's mature chemical industry and emphasis on R&D help enhance lithium applications. But the industry is hindered by constraints like scarce domestic lithium reserves and the requirement for infrastructure development. Partnerships with European nations and investments in recycling technologies are necessary to bolster the supply chain. With an ongoing focus on sustainability and innovation, Italy is likely to increase its share in the industry.

South Korea

In South Korea, the industry is estimated to expand by a CAGR of 6.8% between 2025 and 2035, led by the country's leadership in battery production and high-tech electronics. South Korea, where leading battery makers are based, is heavily investing in increasing its production capacities to cater to the world's demand for EVs and energy storage systems.

The government's promotion of research and development, as well as strategic alliances, is driving innovation in lithium processing and utilization. Initiatives to acquire secure lithium supplies from international partnerships are also being pursued. Though the industry is experiencing difficulties with raw material procurement and environmental issues, South Korea's technological innovation and forward-thinking policies place it well for tremendous expansion in the industry. ​

Japan

Japanese sales are likely to grow at a CAGR of 6.6% for the years 2025 to 2035 as a result of the country's leadership in the electronics and automobile industries. Government support in the form of promotion for executing EV take-up as well as R&D on new battery technologies is strong driver of growth.

The focus of Japan on research and development and sustainability is propelling innovation in the use and processing of lithium. Foreign collaborations attempt to find stable sources of lithium and bolster the country's supply chain. Speed bumps such as foreign competition and natural resource constraints aside, the technological capability of Japan and shrewd investments will position it as a more dominant player in the market.

China

The industry in China is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.7% during 2025 to 2035, driven by the country's leadership in EV manufacturing and battery production. Commanding most of the world's lithium-ion battery manufacturing output, Chinese demand for the commodity is justified by the country's enormous industrial base and government subsidies for clean energy.

Investments in equipment for processing and extracting lithium made locally are focused on reducing dependency on imports and ensuring the supply chain is safer.

China's focus on advances in technology and sustainability also makes additional contributions towards growth in the industry. But regulatory issues and environmental concerns have the potential to decelerate the pace of growth. Through its strategic goals and dominant market share, China will continue to lead the industry.

Australia & New Zealand

In Australia and New Zealand, the industry is projected to expand at a CAGR of 7.0% during the forecast period, with Australia playing a dominant role as a significant producer of lithium resources. Australia's large deposits of lithium and investments in mine infrastructure are the key to serving the world's demand. Plans to establish local processing facilities seek to bring value into the supply chain and minimize reliance on exports.

New Zealand, which lacks extensive lithium reserves, is developing its clean energy solution and may stand to gain from regional coordination. Both countries are investing in research and development to advance lithium technology and utilization. Environmental compliance and industry unpredictability are areas that must be overcome to bring sustained growth to the industry. With planning and regional coordination, Australia and New Zealand are primed to better their positions within the industry.

Competitive Landscape

The industry is concentrated with domination by a limited number of vertically integrated players with significant dominance in lithium extraction, processing, and sales. Major companies like Albemarle Corporation, SQM, Ganfeng Lithium, and Tianqi Lithium have huge market shares due to their extensive operations and investment strategies.

In 2024, the sector saw major consolidation steps. One of them was the takeover of Arcadium Lithium by Rio Tinto in October 2024 for USD 6.7 billion, which was finalized in March 2025. Arcadium was formed earlier in January 2024 by the merger of Livent and Allkem, which became the world's third-largest lithium producer. The deal is a reflection of the trend in which large players are moving towards merging and acquiring other companies to consolidate market shares.

Moreover, technological innovation has been key. International Battery Metals (IBAT) launched a mobile direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology in Utah in July 2024 with the goal of entering commercial production in weeks. The technology represents a shift towards cleaner and more efficient lithium extraction methods.

Also, the industry was impacted by a steep drop in lithium's price, which triggered changes in operations. IBAT announced the suspension of its plant operations for DLE in September 2024 as a result of weak prices and decreased demand. Other companies, for example, Albemarle and CATL, also tweaked cost-cutting measures due to the decline in market trends.

Industry Share Analysis

Between 2025 and 2035, Ganfeng Lithium (32-35% share) will still be the world leader in the business, driven by its vertically integrated business across mining, refining, battery manufacturing, and recycling. Its scale of operations in Jiangxi and Inner Mongolia, combined with worldwide partner resources across Argentina, Australia, and Mexico, provides diversified access to raw materials. Intense supply relationships with EV behemoths like Tesla, BMW, and Volkswagen add to its dominance, albeit with regulatory dangers in China and the risk of oversupply being major hurdles.

LBemarle Corporation (25-30%) will continue to have a strong position as a leading supplier of high-purity (99.9%) battery-grade lithium chloride, given its vertically integrated corporate model and long-term contracts with leading automakers. Albemarle's Chilean and Nevada facilities underpin its North American and Asian expansion strategy, although geopolitical risks in South America and Chinese producers' competitive pressures will soften its growth path.

FENGCHEN GROUP CO., LTD (5-10%) will remain a core mid-tier supplier in the Asia-Pacific region, supplying both industrial and mid-range battery markets. Though it does not have the vertical integration of Ganfeng and Albemarle, its ability to supply niche applications such as ceramics, lubricants, and pharmaceuticals provides a stable base. Its future will be based on securing upstream lithium sources and developing high-purity segments.

Harshil Industries (3-5%) will continue to remain a niche player mainly in the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East, meeting demand in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors. Despite the absence of mining capabilities and reliance on imported feedstocks, its local presence and possible correlation with India's battery localization initiatives under the PLI scheme could help improve its presence in battery materials in the long term.

Other Key Players

• Hefei TNJ Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.
• Leverton
• Mody Chemi Pharma Ltd.
• Muby Chemicals
• Nippon Chemical Industrial
• Otto Chemie Pvt Ltd
• Sontara Organo Industries
• TCI Chemical
• Others

Segmentation

• By Form :

  • Solid
  • Liquid

• By Type :

  • Hydrate
  • Anhydrous

• By Purity :

  • <2N
  • 2N
  • 3N
  • 4N
  • 5N

• By Function :

  • Dehumidifier
  • Bactericide
  • Finishing Agent
  • Tracer

• By Application :

  • Battery Production
  • Chemicals Production
  • Metal Working / Production
  • Waste Water Purification

• By Region :

  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Europe
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East & Africa