Chile Prioritizes Six Areas for Lithium Extraction

Chile's government has identified six priority areas for new lithium extraction projects, with private companies expected to lead these initiatives. The selected sites, which include five salt flats and one lagoon, have attracted around 20 expressions of interest, and consultations with Indigenous communities will begin in October. To secure government approval, firms must demonstrate experience in the lithium value chain, possess substantial financial resources, and hold at least 80% of the mining concessions in the proposed areas. This strategic move aims to increase lithium production by 70% by 2030, supporting President Gabriel Boric's administration goals. CleanTech Lithium's Laguna Verde project has been prioritized for development, and it is set to apply for a critical permit by year's end, with production targeted for 2027. The Chilean government is looking to boost production through both state-run initiatives and private investments, reinforcing its position as the world's second-largest lithium producer.