Chile has launched a call for expressions of interest in lithium exploration, aiming to advance up to five new projects within the country, as announced by the government on Monday.
As the world’s second-largest lithium producer, Chile has encountered obstacles in expanding its lithium industry due to ongoing governmental deliberations.
During a press conference, Aurora Williams, Chile’s mining minister, stated that the application process will span 60 days, with the government revealing the salt flats attracting interest in July.
Williams highlighted that if multiple companies express interest in a salt flat, a tender process will ensue.
Emphasizing the timeline, Williams noted that the government intends to grant permits for new projects by year-end, contingent upon the absence of requisite sign-offs from indigenous communities.
Nicolas Grau, the country’s economy minister, outlined the objective to foster the development of three to five new lithium projects.
This announcement aligns with President Gabriel Boric’s strategy to bolster the industry through heightened state involvement.
