Ganfeng Lithium has begun production at its Mariana Salt Lake project in Argentina, with a $790 million investment aimed at producing 20,000 tonnes of lithium chloride annually. The company is also developing additional lithium projects and a solar energy facility. Argentina’s supportive mining policies enhance its position in the lithium industry, despite some project delays.
Ganfeng Lithium, a Chinese mining company, has officially started production at its Mariana Salt Lake project located in Salta Province, Argentina. This move initiates several lithium projects the company has planned within the country, demonstrating its commitment to expand lithium production capacity. The Mariana facility was developed with a notable investment of $790 million, with a capacity to produce 20,000 tonnes per annum of lithium chloride extracted from the Llullaillaco salt flat.
The Mariana project, which broke ground in May 2022, will significantly enhance Ganfeng’s lithium production capabilities. In conjunction with this, the company has also invested $190 million into constructing a solar energy facility to meet the plant’s energy requirements. Ganfeng Lithium Group president, Wang Xiaoshen, has expressed confidence in the progress of the company’s various lithium projects in Argentina.
Additionally, the Pozuelos-Pastos Grandes project is scheduled to commence construction this year, while the Incahuasi–Arizaro project is currently undergoing advanced exploration. Ganfeng is also collaborating with Lithium Argentina on the ongoing Cauchari-Olaroz and the feasibility-stage Pastos Grandes projects. The company recently acquired a 14.9% stake in Proyecto Pastos Grandes for 357.1 million yuan.
The Argentine government, under President Javier Milei, has been actively supportive of mining ventures. Incentives provided by the government have been positively received by both copper and lithium miners, fueling further development. Argentina, alongside Chile and Bolivia, forms part of the “lithium triangle,” a region recognized for its substantial lithium reserves.
Despite facing delays in some lithium projects due to fluctuating prices and slower electric vehicle sales, activities in lithium mining continue to progress. At the inauguration of the Mariana plant, Mining Secretary Luis Lucero emphasized its potential to enhance local economies and provide quality employment opportunities for many families. Ganfeng fully owns the Mariana project, which boasts a lithium resource of around 8.12 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent.
In summary, Ganfeng Lithium’s initiation of production at the Mariana Salt Lake project marks a significant step in strengthening its lithium production capacity in Argentina. The company’s strategic investments in energy infrastructure and ongoing projects reflect its commitment to the region. With supportive government policies and vast lithium reserves, Argentina is poised to play a critical role in the global lithium supply chain.
Original Source: www.mining-technology.com
