BUENOS AIRES – China’s Ganfeng Lithium has officially begun lithium production at its Mariana project in northern Argentina, marking a significant milestone in its South American expansion.
One of the world’s leading lithium producers, Ganfeng is ramping up operations as demand for battery metals continues to shape the global energy transition.
Located in Salta province, the Mariana plant represents a $790 million investment and has an annual production capacity of 20,000 metric tons of lithium chloride extracted from the Llullaillaco salt flat.
To support the facility’s energy needs, Ganfeng also invested $190 million in a solar park, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable mining.
Ganfeng Lithium President Wang Xiaoshen stated that the company’s other lithium projects in Argentina are advancing:
- Pozuelos-Pastos Grandes is set to begin construction this year.
- Incahuasi–Arizaro is in the advanced exploration phase.
- Cauchari-Olaroz, co-owned with Lithium Argentina (LAR), is already in operation.
- Pastos Grandes remains in the feasibility stage.
Argentina’s Mining Push Amid Global Lithium Market Volatility
Argentina’s government, under President Javier Milei, has actively encouraged mining investments, introducing an incentive scheme welcomed by international lithium and copper producers.
The country, along with Chile and Bolivia, forms the Lithium Triangle, home to some of the world’s largest lithium reserves. However, some projects have faced delays due to low lithium prices and a slowdown in electric vehicle sales.
At the Mariana project’s inauguration, Mining Secretary Luis Lucero highlighted its economic benefits, saying:
“The Mariana project not only represents an important source of foreign currency earnings but also the creation of genuine, quality employment for hundreds of families.”
Ganfeng’s latest move reinforces Argentina’s position as a key player in the global lithium supply chain, despite ongoing market fluctuations.
