U.S. Exports Of Lithium Chemicals, By Compound And Country Or Locality

This table presents detailed data on the United States’ exports of lithium chemicals, categorized by specific compounds—lithium carbonate, pharmaceutical-grade lithium carbonate, and lithium hydroxide—and further broken down by destination countries or localities. This information is crucial for understanding the economic and industrial dynamics of lithium trade, as lithium chemicals are essential components in the manufacture of batteries, particularly for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Tracking export volumes and values helps gauge the U.S. role in the global lithium supply chain, informs trade policy decisions, and supports strategic planning for industries reliant on these critical materials.

Analysis of the data reveals notable shifts between 2021 and 2022. Total exports of lithium carbonate increased significantly from 2,660 metric tons valued at $13.9 million to 3,820 metric tons worth $25.8 million, with Germany and Japan emerging as top destinations—Germany’s exports more than doubled in weight to 1,430 metric tons and increased in value to $9.94 million, while Japan’s exports surged to 1,610 metric tons valued at $12.2 million. Conversely, exports to Russia declined sharply from 1,050 to 190 metric tons. Pharmaceutical-grade lithium carbonate exports decreased from 153 to 78 metric tons, though India’s imports rose markedly from 6 to 34 metric tons, with a corresponding value increase to $1.53 million. Lithium hydroxide exports showed a substantial rise in value from $95 million to $324 million despite a more modest increase in weight from 8,120 to 10,300 metric tons. Japan remained the dominant importer, with exports valued at $134 million in 2022, while China’s imports jumped dramatically from negligible amounts to 1,400 metric tons valued at $22 million. Poland also saw a remarkable increase in lithium hydroxide imports, from negligible quantities to 1,330 metric tons valued at nearly $100 million, highlighting growing demand in these markets.