Lithium Ore

What It Is:

Lithium is a light, highly reactive alkali metal primarily found in mineral deposits such as spodumene, lepidolite, and petalite. Lithium ore is mined and processed to extract lithium used in high-tech industries, especially in energy storage systems.

What Export of It Is:

Exporting lithium ore involves sourcing the raw mineral (typically in rock form), processing or crushing it to specific sizes, and shipping it in bulk to countries where it is refined into lithium compounds. The demand for lithium ore is rapidly growing due to its critical role in clean energy and electric vehicles.

Product Description:

• Appearance: Granular/crushed mineral ore; typically grey to whitish-green in color

• Main Component: Lithium-bearing minerals like spodumene (LiAl(SiO₃)₂)

• Grade:

  • Spodumene content: 1.0% – 6.5% Li₂O

  • Commercial grade often starts from 1.2% upward

• Other elements: Silica, alumina, iron oxide (Fe₂O₃)

Export Form:

• Raw lithium ore (unprocessed)

• Crushed lithium ore (0–100 mm)

• Concentrated lithium ore (after beneficiation)

Uses:

• Battery Industry: Lithium-ion batteries for EVs, mobile phones, laptops, etc.

• Glass and Ceramics: Enhances strength and heat resistance

• Greases and Lubricants: Lithium-based greases used in machinery

• Aerospace & Defense: Lightweight alloys for aircraft and spacecraft

• Energy Storage Systems: For solar and wind power storage

Packaging for Export:

• Bulk bags (jumbo bags): 1 ton – 1.2 tons per bag

• Containerized Shipments: 20 ft or 40 ft containers

• Bulk Shipments: For large-scale exports via cargo ships

Main Export Markets:

• China – world’s largest lithium processor

• South Korea & Japan – battery and electronics industries

• USA & Germany – energy storage and automotive industries

• India – emerging EV and electronics sector

Export HS Code:

• 2530.90.00.00 – Mineral substances not elsewhere specified (includes lithium ore)

• 2853.00.10.00 – Lithium oxide and hydroxide (for refined forms)

Export Documentation Requirements:

• Certificate of Origin

• Chemical Analysis Report (Li₂O grade)

• Assay Certificate

• Bill of Lading

• Commercial Invoice

• Fumigation Certificate (if required)

• Export Permit / License from Nigeria’s Ministry of Mines and Steel Development

Export Potential:

• High global demand due to the transition to electric vehicles and green energy

• Strategic mineral classified as “critical” by most industrialized nations

• Significant reserves found in parts of Nigeria (e.g., Nasarawa, Kogi, Kwara, Oyo, and Ekiti States)

• Attractive to foreign investors due to growing need for stable supply chains

Key Considerations for Exporters:

• Ensure proper mineral exploration licenses are in place

• Work with certified laboratories for assay and testing

• Maintain strict compliance with mining and environmental laws

• Consider beneficiation for value-added exports