<2025> LIB Secondary Battery Electrolyte Technology Trends and Market Outlook (~2035)

Recently, the world has entered the trend of energy transition, leading to the restructuring of the secondary battery market, with a focus on electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems (ESS). Chinese secondary battery companies such as CATL, BYD, and CALB are expanding their global market share (M/S) with the support of the Chinese government and a massive domestic market. Meanwhile, companies outside of China, such as those from South Korea and Japan, are actively making moves to counter China's dominance.

In this era of upheaval, with Donald Trump confirmed as the 47th President of the United States, changes in industrial policies and regulatory environments are anticipated. This is expected to lead to significant shifts not only in the U.S. but also in the global electric vehicle and secondary battery markets.

The inauguration of the Donald Trump administration raises the possibility of significant changes in global industrial policies and the trade environment. In particular, if policies aimed at revitalizing domestic manufacturing and strengthening technological supremacy are implemented under the "America First" agenda, the secondary battery electrolyte industry could also be affected.

First, the Trump administration is showing signs of reducing or eliminating existing electric vehicle subsidy policies, raising concerns that this could hinder the growth of the electric vehicle market. Additionally, by imposing high tariffs on foreign companies and reinforcing the "onshoring" policy, which mandates domestic production, the Trump administration aims to revitalize U.S. manufacturing.

As a result, U.S.-based electric vehicle and secondary battery manufacturers are likely to face increasing demands for supply chain localization. This will strongly urge electrolyte manufacturers to establish production bases in the U.S. or strengthen partnerships with local partners. This onshoring trend is likely to disrupt the existing competitive landscape in the global electrolyte market, significantly impacting trade relations with China.

Chinese companies have already established a dominant position in key raw material markets, such as lithium salt (LiPF6). Therefore, the U.S.'s tariff and regulatory tightening could hinder their market expansion. On the other hand, this shift could serve as an opportunity for South Korean and Japanese electrolyte manufacturers to strengthen their presence in the U.S. market by leveraging their technological and quality competitiveness. In particular, South Korea's Dongwha Electrolyte, Solbrain, and Enchem are already playing significant roles in the global supply chain through partnerships with major electric vehicle battery manufacturers. They should explore the possibility of directly entering the U.S. market or localizing production by leveraging these relationships.

Changes are also expected in the additives market. Additives, which play a crucial role in the performance of lithium-ion secondary batteries-such as forming SEI protective films, preventing overcharging, and improving conductivity-are seeing South Korea's Chunbochem and Chemtros expanding their market share based on their technological expertise. As the U.S. strengthens its demands for domestic production, additives manufacturers will also need to implement strategic responses, including localization of production.

At the same time, in key markets like China and Europe, electrolyte manufacturers are also showing efforts to strengthen their competitiveness through localization strategies and technological advancements. In this situation, electrolyte manufacturers from South Korea, Japan, and emerging countries are making efforts to expand their presence in the global market by focusing on quality competitiveness and environmentally friendly technologies.

Furthermore, as the transition from lithium-ion batteries to next-generation battery technologies, such as solid-state batteries, accelerates, the technical requirements for electrolytes are expected to change. This could lead to increased collaboration and M&A activities among electrolyte companies. In the midst of these changes, the global electrolyte market is facing both new opportunities and challenges.

In the face of these changes, electrolyte companies are required to adopt the following strategic responses. First, to align with the U.S.'s onshoring trend, they should actively pursue localization strategies such as establishing local production facilities or forming joint ventures. Second, electrolyte companies should strengthen technological differentiation by developing high-value-added lithium salts and additives, securing trust in the U.S. and European markets through quality. At the same time, they must prepare for the transition to next-generation battery technologies, such as solid-state batteries. Third, to ensure cost competitiveness and a stable supply chain, electrolyte companies should focus on diversifying global raw material sourcing and optimizing production processes.

While the turbulent market changes may cause challenges in the short term, electrolyte companies can strengthen their position in the global market and create new opportunities by implementing appropriate response strategies.

In light of these upcoming changes, this report aims to help readers understand the overall size of the electrolyte market and gain insight into the evolving market by forecasting the future demand and market trends for electrolytes. Additionally, we have compiled detailed technical information on electrolyte finished products and their components for application in lithium-ion secondary batteries, as well as information on solid electrolytes for use in next-generation batteries.

Finally, by summarizing the electrolyte demand of key battery manufacturers and the supply status and outlook of various electrolyte companies, this report aims to provide researchers and interested parties with a broad range of insights, from technology to the market.

Strong Points:

• 1. The report includes comprehensive technical information on finished electrolyte products and their components.
• 2. The report introduces solid electrolyte technologies for next-generation batteries, beyond traditional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs).
• 3. Through the electrolyte market outlook based on our forecast data, the report provides objective and reliable insights.
• 4. The report includes detailed information on the products and manufacturing status of key electrolyte players from South Korea, China, and Japan.