With an expected average annual increase of 50% by 2027, Argentina is poised to overtake Chile and Australia in lithium production

Argentina is poised for a significant surge in lithium production, outpacing both Chile and Australia, according to a report from the Rosario Stock Exchange (RSE). 



Predictions indicate that by 2027, Argentina's lithium production will grow six times more than Chile and three times more than Australia. The RSE report emphasizes the country's "golden opportunity" to attract investments, create employment, and boost foreign exchange.



In contrast to an expected 8% annual growth in lithium production in Chile and 16% in Australia, Argentina aims for an impressive average annual increase of 50% by 2027. The report highlights Argentina's abundant lithium reserves and resources, positioning the country strategically and potentially saving exploration time globally due to its significant volume and mining development potential.



The primary export from Argentina's lithium complex is lithium carbonate, crucial for battery production, alongside lithium hydroxide. The survey underscores the pivotal role these elements play in the evolving landscape of battery technologies.



Tomás de Pablos Souza, President of Liex S.A., a subsidiary of a Chinese company, discussed the lithium developments in Catamarca in an interview with Panorama Minero. 



Providing insights into the Tres Quebradas project, he revealed that the construction of the first phase is nearing completion, set to achieve an annual production of 20,000 tons of Lithium Carbonate Equivalent (LCE). 



The total investment for this phase is approximately US$400 million, part of a broader plan that includes a Second Phase requiring a US$600 million investment to increase annual production by an additional 30,000 tons of LCE. The ambitious plans extend to a Third Phase, utilizing Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology, adding 50,000 tons of LCE annually and doubling the investment of the first two phases.



Meanwhile, Argentina Lithium & Energy has inked agreements to secure a 100% interest in two new mining concessions in north-western Argentina. The company is set to acquire the 1,456-ha Don Fermin property near Salar de Rincon, with a total cash payment of $2.75 million over 18 months, including an initial non-reimbursable payment of $250,000. This move is expected to expand the Rincon West project's total area to 5198.8ha, with the vendor retaining a 1.5% net smelter royalty (NSR) on the property. 

Additionally, Argentina Lithium will acquire the 789-ha Lexi-30 property to augment its Antofalla North Project, making payments of $425,000 in tranches. These strategic acquisitions reflect the growing importance of Argentina in the global lithium market.