Fastmarkets invited feedback from the industry on the pricing methodology for its International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO)-audited non-ferrous metals, via an open consultation process between October 13 and November 12, 2025. This consultation was done as part of our published annual methodology review process.

The publication of Fastmarkets’ MB-LI-0012 spodumene min 6% Li2O, spot price, cif China, $/tonne for October 29, 2025, was delayed because of a peer reviewer error. Fastmarkets’ pricing database has been updated.

The consultation, which is open until November 12, 2025, seeks to ensure that our audited methodologies and price specifications continue to reflect the physical markets under indexation for alumina, aluminium, cobalt, copper, lithium, spodumene, nickel sulfate and graphite, in compliance with the International Organization of Securities Commissions (IOSCO) principles for Price Reporting Agencies (PRAs). This includes […]

Chinese battery giant CATL has suspended operations at its Jianxiawo lithium mine in Jiangxi after its permit expired, sparking price jumps in lithium futures and spot markets. Analysts note the halt could influence supply and market sentiment despite CATL’s assurance of minimal operational impact.

Spodumene production in Australia and Canada rose in the second quarter of 2025, with most producers maintaining profitability despite falling prices. However, several high-cost operations remain inactive amid ongoing market uncertainty.

The Guangzhou Futures Exchange (GFEX) has set a daily position limit of 3,000 lots for non-futures firms and individuals on its September lithium carbonate futures contract, effective July 28. The move aims to address sharp price spikes and market volatility, even as oversupply persists.

Despite falling prices, three Brazilian lithium plants – owned by Sigma Lithium, Companhia Brasileira de Lítio (CBL) and AMG Lithium – are seeking to expand their operations in the coming years, in order to become more competitive in the global market, Fastmarkets heard during the “Lithium Business Brazil” event held July 8-10 in the state of Minas Gerais.

The 2025 Fastmarkets Lithium Conference in Las Vegas highlighted critical issues shaping the battery supply chain, including lithium oversupply, funding struggles and the need for midstream investment. Discussions also emphasized the importance of interdependence with China and the challenges faced by recyclers amid policy uncertainty and market headwinds.

Global mining major Rio Tinto has sharpened its focus on lithium, betting not just on traditional hard rock or brine evaporation but on an emerging technology that could reshape the industry - direct lithium extraction (DLE)

The rationale for MB-LI-0012 spodumene min 6% Li2O, spot price, cif China, had erroneously stated that “Spodumene prices declined this session, amid continued weakness in lithium carbonate prices on the Guangzhou Futures Exchange (GFEX).” This has been corrected to “Spodumene prices declined this session, due to weakness in lithium markets and ongoing bearish sentiment.” The published price […]