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[HCI Market Brief] Global Battery & Logistics Market Analysis

  • Writer: HOSOON CHOI
    HOSOON CHOI
  • Aug 16
  • 2 min read

Week 34, 2025 (Aug 18 ~ Aug 24)

HCI Market Brief by HOSOON CHOI

The global battery and logistics landscape continues to evolve rapidly. Below is this week’s fact-based market snapshot, designed to support strategic decisions for manufacturers, logistics providers, and investors.

This image was generated by Open AI's DALL.E.
This image was generated by Open AI's DALL.E.

1. Raw Material Price Trends

Lithium

Futures surged nearly 8% in early August after CATL suspended operations at a major Chinese mine. However, oversupply and weakening EV demand keep prices hovering near yearly lows.

👉 A short-term rebound within a long-term downward trend.

Nickel

Indonesia’s delayed project rollouts and government intervention remain key variables. Yet globally, oversupply continues to weigh on nickel prices.

Cobalt

The Democratic Republic of Congo extended its export ban, but high stockpiles limited market reaction. Volatility remains elevated.


2. Demand & Policy Shifts

EV Sales

Both China and Europe maintain double-digit year-on-year growth. Europe’s push toward carbon neutrality is driving stable demand through infrastructure investment.

Korean Manufacturers

Accelerating entry into the North American market. In response to the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), Korean firms are strengthening localized production and supply chains.

Policy Spotlight

The EU will tighten carbon footprint regulations for battery production starting in 2026.

👉 Companies must prepare early to avoid losing competitiveness.


3. Logistics Market Trends

Ocean Freight:

Asia–U.S. West Coast freight rates have plunged over 50% in the past two months (as of August).

Key drivers: excess capacity and U.S.–China trade uncertainty.

Project Cargo:

Transport demand is steadily rising for renewable power equipment and offshore wind components.

Air Freight:

High-value segments such as semiconductors and advanced battery cells continue to dominate demand.


4. 3-Month Outlook

  • Raw Materials: Volatility in lithium and nickel is set to persist. Short-term rebounds possible, but long-term weakness remains.

  • Logistics: Growing project cargo will drive freight volatility in H2.

  • Policy & Regulation: Firms with proactive responses to new regulations will capture greater market share.


Practical Tips

  • Procurement & Logistics Contracts: Include clauses for price sliding, fuel surcharges, and FX fluctuations to mitigate volatility.

  • Supply Chain Risk Management: Reduce reliance on single vendors; secure dual sourcing and alternative routes.


Conclusion

Today’s market is no longer defined by price alone. Policy, supply chain dynamics, and logistics risks are shaping competitiveness.


👉 The HCI Market Brief delivers weekly insights combining real market data and field intelligence, supporting strategic decision-making for manufacturers, logistics firms, and investors.


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※ The views and opinions expressed in this brief are solely those of the author and do not represent the official stance, strategy, or policy of the author’s employer or any other organization.


This material is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, accounting, or commercial advice regarding any specific company, institution, policy, or investment.


The author assumes no legal responsibility for any loss or disadvantage arising from the use of this material.

 
 
 

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