China's leaders started a closed-door meeting on Monday to discuss economic targets and map out stimulus plans for 2024.

The comments came as China's economy has struggled to mount a strong post-pandemic recovery amid a deepening housing crisis.

China is the world's largest consumer and producer of lithium carbonate.

Utility firm said it had disconnected large-scale batteries made by thr Chinese company over security concerns.

CMOC agreed earlier this week to sell its 80% stake in the Northparkes copper and gold mine to Evolution Mining.

The Yangshan copper premium, an indicator of import demand, rose to a one-year high.

Lithium prices overshot last year driven by China but this year fresh supply, including from Africa, has led to a collapse in prices.