SQM Reports Strong Turnaround in Q1 2025 Earnings

Sociedad Quimica Y Minera ( (SQM) ) has released its Q1 earnings. Here is a breakdown of the information Sociedad Quimica Y Minera presented to its investors.

Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM) is a global company engaged in the production of essential products for various industries, including health, nutrition, renewable energy, and technology, with a focus on lithium, potassium nitrate, iodine, and thermo-solar salts markets.

In its latest earnings report for the first quarter of 2025, SQM announced total revenues of $1,036.6 million, a slight decrease from the previous year. However, the company reported a significant turnaround in net income, achieving $137.5 million compared to a net loss in the same period last year. The company highlighted record-high iodine sales prices and unprecedented first-quarter lithium sales volumes driven by strong market demand.

SQM’s lithium segment saw a 27% increase in sales volumes, reflecting robust demand from the electric vehicle market, particularly in China. Despite stable average prices at the start of 2025, the company anticipates lower prices in the next quarter due to market oversupply. The iodine segment experienced a 6.2% revenue increase, with prices reaching new highs, driven by demand in the X-ray contrast media application. Meanwhile, the potassium segment faced a 33.2% revenue decline due to reduced production.

The company’s Specialty Plant Nutrition business reported a slight revenue increase, supported by strong demand and stable supply conditions. SQM’s CEO, Ricardo Ramos, expressed optimism about ongoing projects, including the Mount Holland refinery plant and the seawater pipeline, which are expected to enhance production capacity and operational efficiencies.

Looking ahead, SQM remains focused on meeting market demands and improving operational efficiencies. The company anticipates stable iodine prices and continued growth in the lithium market, although it expects some price adjustments due to increased supply. SQM is committed to supporting agricultural productivity and expanding its value-added product offerings.