Chile aims to launch between three and four new lithium extraction projects by 2026, according to statements by Finance Minister Mario Marcel.
This announcement underscores the efforts of the country, recognized as the world’s largest copper producer and the second largest lithium producer, to strengthen its position in the market for the metal that is essential to power batteries. electric vehiclesThe company’s policy to increase the state’s participation in this strategic sector was launched last year.
Partnership for new lithium mining projects
Marcel made these statements after a meeting with US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, who has been visiting the country. During her stay, Yellen visited the facilities of Albemarle, a U.S. lithium producer in northern Chile, stressing that greater collaboration between Chile and the U.S. would benefit both countries, would contribute to the energy security and would facilitate the achievement of key climate objectives.
Today, the country has only two lithium producers: Albemarle y SQM . The market is waiting for the government to define its national lithium strategy, seeking to form public-private partnerships for the development of its lithium salars.
Recently, Chile’s Minister of Mining announced that the government expects to conclude lithium exploration tenders for private companies in the first quarter of the year. In addition, Codelco, Chile’s state-owned copper mining company, has been selected to represent the state in the new public-private partnership model for lithium, in an effort to revitalize an industry that has been stagnant for years.
The South American country’s ambition to expand its lithium industry reflects the growing global demand for this crucial metal for the energy transition, positioning the country as a key player in the planet’s sustainable future.
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Source: worldenergytrade.com
