Lithium prices could climb in April as production disruptions and Zimbabwe's export ban create supply constraints, Daiwa Capital Markets analysts warn. The southern African nation suspended lithium concentrate exports at the end of March after imposing a ban last month. With Chinese inventories already falling, analysts predict prices could rise if Zimbabwean output remains low.

Daiwa raised its 2026 global lithium price forecast to CNY120,000-CNY150,000 per ton, up from CNY75,000-CNY90,000. The brokerage upgraded Ganfeng Lithium's H- and A-shares to outperform, lifting target prices to HK$85.00 and CNY90.00 respectively. Tianqi Lithium also received an upgrade to outperform with its target price raised to CNY66.00 from CNY50.00.

Meanwhile, Indah Kiat Pulp & Paper's Karawang plant expansion is positioned as a major growth driver, according to UOB Kay Hian. The Indonesian company's expansion adds 900,000 tons of brown paper and 1.5 million tons of white paper production. The plant is projected to deliver a 49% three-year revenue CAGR through 2029, with biomass-powered operations enhancing ESG credentials.