Industry forecasts published on September 7, 2026 show that China's power battery sector is approaching a large-scale retirement phase, with annual retired battery volumes expected to exceed 1 million metric tons by 2030.
Sichuan Province has taken an early lead by launching five regional centers for power battery recycling and utilization. A six-ministry management regulation for the sector took effect in April 2026.
The retirement wave is being driven by the rapid growth of NEV sales in earlier years. With battery lifespans typically ranging from six to eight years, vehicles sold during the 2018 to 2024 NEV boom are now beginning to retire, creating an urgent need for systematic recycling capacity.
Industry experts said the recycling sector represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Recovered materials including lithium, cobalt, and nickel can supply domestic battery production, reducing dependence on imported raw materials and supporting the circular economy.
Source: National Business Daily / Sina Finance
