---
title: "Lithium Prices Surge Amid Supply Chain Disruptions"
type: "News"
locale: "en"
url: "https://longbridge.com/en/news/285791669.md"
description: "Lithium prices have surged past 200,000 due to ongoing supply chain disruptions, particularly from Zimbabwe, where logistical challenges are delaying shipments of lithium concentrate until mid-July. This has resulted in a tight supply for May and June. Meanwhile, demand is expected to rise with new car launches and a rebound in new energy vehicle sales. Increased exports and growth in energy storage are also boosting battery production. The situation highlights a supply-demand imbalance exacerbated by shipping delays from Zimbabwe."
datetime: "2026-05-09T02:34:07.000Z"
locales:
  - [zh-CN](https://longbridge.com/zh-CN/news/285791669.md)
  - [en](https://longbridge.com/en/news/285791669.md)
  - [zh-HK](https://longbridge.com/zh-HK/news/285791669.md)
---

# Lithium Prices Surge Amid Supply Chain Disruptions

On May 9, Jin10 Futures reported that lithium prices have surpassed 200,000 this week, indicating ongoing supply chain disruptions. According to Jin10, despite Zimbabwe's policy allowing exports, logistical challenges and local inefficiencies have delayed bulk shipments of lithium concentrate. It is expected that lithium concentrate from Zimbabwe will not reach smelters until mid-July, leading to tight lithium supply in May and June. This situation is corroborated by a noticeable reduction in weekly spodumene production and limited shipments of Zimbabwean lithium sulfate. On the demand side, new car launches by various automotive companies at the end of April are expected to drive a recovery in orders throughout May. The sales of new energy vehicles, a fundamental demand driver, are anticipated to rebound. Additionally, higher-than-expected exports and continued growth in energy storage are contributing to increased production of batteries and cathode materials. As May progresses, attention should be paid to the supply-demand imbalance caused by Zimbabwe's shipping delays. This content and perspective are for reference only and do not constitute investment advice.

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