Top-10 Lithium Producing Countries in the World 2024

Lithium, a crucial component in the production of batteries for electric vehicles, electronics, and energy storage systems, has become increasingly vital in today’s world. As the demand for lithium continues to rise with the proliferation of electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies, understanding the leading lithium-producing countries becomes paramount. Here’s a comprehensive look at the top 10 lithium-producing countries in the world in 2024.

Worldwide Lithium Production

In recent years, lithium has surged in importance, driven by the electric vehicle and clean technology boom reliant on lithium batteries. The global lithium-ion battery market soared to $52 billion in 2022, with projections reaching $194 billion by 2030. Utilizing data from the United States Geological Survey, the infographic above delves into the world’s foremost lithium-producing nations, illustrating their significant contributions to the global lithium supply chain.

Largest Lithium Producer in the World 2024

In 2024, Australia continues its reign as the world’s top lithium producer, predominantly extracting lithium from hard rock mines, notably the mineral spodumene. This method allows for versatile processing into lithium hydroxide or carbonate, boasting faster production and superior quality due to spodumene’s higher lithium content. Meanwhile, countries like Chile, Argentina, and China predominantly extract lithium from brine, offering lower production costs and reduced environmental impact. Benchmark Minerals’ visual aid delineates the carbon footprint disparities between various lithium extraction methods, further highlighting the diverse landscape of global lithium production.

Top-10 Lithium Producers in the World 2024

Australia with the lithium production of 61,000 tons, holds the distinction of being the largest lithium producer in the world, followed by Chile, China and Argentina.

Here is the list of top-10 lithium producer in the world 2024:

Largest Lithium Producer in the World – Australia

Lithium Production: 61,000 tons

Western Australia, renowned for hosting some of the world’s largest lithium reserves, solidifies Australia’s status as the leading lithium producer, with an annual output of 61,000 tonnes. The region’s flagship Greenbushes Lithium Mine, operated by Talison Lithium, utilizes hard-rock mining techniques to extract spodumene deposits from extensive pegmatite formations. With additional projects like Mount Marion and Bald Hill bolstering its lithium portfolio, Western Australia’s established infrastructure and commitment to sustainability position it as a key player in meeting the global demand for lithium, especially for advancing clean energy technologies.

Second Largest Country in terms of Lithium Production – Chile

Lithium Production: 39,000 tons

Chile secures its position as the world’s second-largest lithium producer, boasting an estimated annual production of 39,000 metric tons. Leveraging its abundant brine resources, particularly in the Salar de Atacama, Chile stands as a key global supplier of lithium. The region’s dry climate facilitates effective evaporation techniques for lithium extraction from brine, with industry giants like Albemarle and SQM leading the charge. With its significant contributions to the electric vehicle and energy storage sectors, Chile’s role in the global lithium industry remains indispensable.

World’s Third Largest Lithium Producer – China

Lithium Production: 19,000 tons

China maintains its position as the world’s third-largest lithium producer, with an annual production of approximately 19,000 metric tons. Utilizing diverse resources, including brine deposits rich in lithium and hard-rock minerals like spodumene, China remains a pivotal player in the global lithium industry. Notable sources include the Australian Greenbushes Lithium Mine and domestic sites such as the Qinghai Lithium Mine and Zhabuye Salt Lake. With significant contributions to lithium-ion battery manufacturing for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, China drives advancements in clean energy technology, supported by its strategic investments and abundant lithium supplies.