Latest Update in the SMM Lithium Battery Cathode Precursor and Material Market

Recently, under the so-called "reciprocal tariff" executive order, the US announced that it will impose a 10% "minimum baseline tariff" on its trading partners and higher tariffs on some trading partners. This "reciprocal tariff" will take effect from April 9.

China, the top global producer and supplier of graphite, has recently introduced strict export limits on this vital mineral. The new rules demand that exporters secure special permits to ship specific graphite products. These include high-purity and high-strength graphite used in cutting-edge industries. The measures seek to manage the outflow of graphite from China. They also aim to keep a steady domestic supply for strategic needs.

The swift thawing of Arctic ice caps stands out as a clear result of climate change. Higher temperatures worldwide have sped up this process. It affects ecosystems, sea levels, and access to resources in big ways. The Arctic, once seen as a frozen area with little value for business, now shows new possibilities because of these shifts. Yet, this fresh access brings a downside. The delicate Arctic environment faces serious risks from human actions and industry growth.

Lithium Carbonate Spot Prices Extended Losses on April 8 Amid Macro Pressure

Last month, the bids for two central state-owned enterprises' ESS procurement projects requiring battery cell capacity ≥314Ah have been opened, which are noteworthy.

SMM Flash: Rare Earth Permanent Magnets Concept Strengthened in the Afternoon, Tianhe Magnetic Materials Hit the Limit Up, Prices of Medium-Heavy Rare Earths Such as Terbium Oxide Rose. On April 4, the Ministry of Commerce, in conjunction with the General Administration of Customs, issued an announcement on the implementation of export control measures on seven categories of medium-heavy rare earth-related items including samarium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, lutetium, scandium, and yttrium, which took effect immediately upon issuance. Influenced by the positive news of export control measures on some medium-heavy rare earth-related items by the two departments and the significant pre-increase in Q1 performance of China Northern Rare Earth, the rare earth permanent magnets concept sector strengthened significantly in the afternoon of April 8. As of 13:45 on April 8, the rare earth permanent magnets concept index rose by 2.47%.