Rock Tech Lithium and Ronbay Technology have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding to establish an integrated battery materials supply chain in Europe, with lithium hydroxide from Rock Tech’s planned Guben Converter in Germany to be supplied to Ronbay’s cathode active material (CAM) plant in Konin, Poland.
The agreement signals deeper collaboration between the Canadian-German lithium producer and the Chinese multinational CAM manufacturer, as Europe ramps up efforts to localise battery supply chains for electric vehicles. The lithium hydroxide, a critical input for cathode materials, will be processed at Rock Tech’s facility in Guben, located on the German-Polish border, which is targeting an annual output of 24,000 tonnes – sufficient to power over 500,000 EVs.
“Ronbay’s interest in sourcing lithium locally produced in Europe is a clear signal of strategic alignment. This partnership will act as a flywheel, accelerating and amplifying our shared commitment to building a resilient battery value chain in Europe,” said Mirco Wojnarowicz, CEO of Rock Tech Lithium.
Ronbay, headquartered in Ningbo, China, recently acquired the former Johnson Matthey cathode facility in Konin, Poland, and plans to produce up to 25,000 tonnes of mid- and high-nickel ternary CAM from 2026. In addition to lithium supply, the MoU outlines further cooperation, including joint investment opportunities, market development, and support for construction and ramp-up of Rock Tech’s Guben Converter.
“Ronbay’s European Project marks a pivotal step in our global strategy. Our partnership with Rock Tech will accelerate the localisation of raw materials for the project and further strengthen our presence in the European market,” a Ronbay executive stated.
The agreement reflects a broader trend in the EV industry, with manufacturers and suppliers seeking to secure local, stable sources of raw materials and build more sustainable, regionally integrated supply chains in Europe.