Argentina Joins US Minerals Security Partnership

Argentina is set to sign a memorandum of understanding with the US to enhance investment and trade in critical minerals, particularly copper and lithium, during a visit by US Under Secretary of State Jose Fernandez. This agreement aims to facilitate Argentina's participation in the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), a US-led initiative designed to create supply chains for essential metals independent of China. Fernandez emphasized that the partnership will enable Argentina to present its investment opportunities to 14 countries and the EU simultaneously. However, despite high-level discussions, the MSP has seen limited tangible investments so far, and Argentina remains excluded from US incentives for lithium production due to the lack of a free-trade agreement. The initiative is part of President Javier Milei's strategy to strengthen ties with Washington while balancing relations with China, Argentina's largest trading partner. The US has also invited stakeholders to learn about investment opportunities in Argentina's lithium and copper sectors at an upcoming forum.