Market
The sodium-ion battery supply chain
Sodium minerals are widely distributed, but sodium-ion manufacturing is currently more—not less—concentrated in China than lithium-ion manufacturing.
What matters
The IEA says China holds nearly all existing capacity and more than 95% of installed and announced capacity for 2030. Component expertise and cathode, hard-carbon and electrolyte supply reinforce that cluster.
The detail
Avoiding lithium and graphite diversifies upstream exposure. Layered-oxide designs may still depend on processed nickel and manganese, and aluminium, electrolyte and manufacturing equipment have their own supply chains.
Practical conclusion
Sodium-ion can improve material diversity without immediately improving geographic manufacturing diversity. Both statements can be true.
Sources
- Sodium-ion battery momentum grows, but challenges remain — International Energy Agency, 17 February 2026.
Sources last checked 10 November 2026. Product availability can change.