Chile’s government is progressing with a streamlined process to award lithium mining contracts in three salt flats, according to the Ministry of Mining.
Applications have been accepted from Eramet for the Agua Amarga salt flat; from Eramet, Quiborax, and state-owned copper company Codelco for the Ascotan salt flat; and from the Caliche Kairos consortium for the Coipasa salt flat.
This move aligns with President Gabriel Boric’s 2023 initiative to increase state control over lithium resources—an essential metal for electric vehicles and clean energy—while fostering public-private partnerships to expand the sector.
The plan also includes a state-led joint venture between Codelco and SQM, Chile’s largest lithium producer, and the opening of additional salt flats for development.
The ministry said that once indigenous consultations and other requirements for the Special Lithium Operation Contract (CEOL) are fulfilled, contracts will be signed if applicants agree.
If not, public bidding will be initiated, as was done with the Ollague salt flat in the Antofagasta region, and Piedra Parada and Laguna Verde in Atacama.
To qualify for the fast-tracked process, applicants had to demonstrate partial ownership of the mining concession, financial strength, and relevant experience in mining or the lithium value chain.
The ministry also confirmed the completion of indigenous consultations to amend a CEOL at the Maricunga salt flat on behalf of Codelco.
The final resolution, which includes 11 agreements with six participating communities, is pending publication.
