According to Rory McNulty, a senior analyst at Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, China currently leads the world in established lithium metal production capacity, accounting for over 90% of the global capacity in 2023.McNulty, who specializes in analyzing next-generation battery technologies at Benchmark, provided insights into how China is strategically developing its lithium metal strategy to cement its position as the dominant player in this critical raw material for the electric vehicle and energy storage industries.The data shows that China's lithium metal production capacity is expected to continue growing rapidly. Projections indicate that Chinese-controlled lithium mines, including those in Africa, could increase output to 705,000 tons by 2025 - nearly quadrupling the amount of its global supply and lifting China's share to 32% of the world's lithium.This strategic push by China to bolster its lithium metal capabilities comes as global demand for lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles surges. Securing reliable and cost-effective access to lithium metal has become a top priority for the world's largest EV market.McNulty's analysis delves into the various facets of China's lithium metal strategy, which involves ramping up domestic mining and refining operations, investing in advanced extraction technologies, and forging partnerships with international producers. This allows China to reduce its reliance on imported lithium raw materials and solidify its control over the global supply chain.As the world grapples with the criticality of lithium, Benchmark's senior analyst provides valuable insights into China's strategic maneuverings to cement its position as the global leader in this essential battery material.