Global Giants Vie for Lithium Extraction in Chile

Twelve global companies, including Rio Tinto and BYD, have submitted bids to extract lithium from the Altoandinos salt flats in Chile. The proposals are part of Chile's effort to boost lithium production through public-private partnerships. ENAMI will announce eligible companies on August 19 before negotiating with finalists.

Twelve major companies, including global giant Rio Tinto and Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD, have submitted proposals to extract lithium from Chile's Altoandinos salt flats, the state mining company ENAMI announced on Thursday.

The salt flats, located in Northern Chile's Atacama region, are central to the Chilean government's strategy to enhance lithium production. This initiative seeks to foster public-private partnerships for new projects launched by ENAMI in May.

Notable applicants include France's Eramet, South Korea's LG Energy Solution and Posco, and Chile's Belsaco. Argentina's Tecpetrol, Russia's Axionit, Canada's Summit Nanotech, Chile's Grupo Errazuriz, and two Chinese entities, CNRG and the BTR consortium, have also joined the fray. Final qualifying companies will be announced on August 19, followed by negotiation rounds. ENAMI chief Ivan Mlynarz emphasized the commitment of these companies to collaborative partnerships.

(With inputs from agencies.)