Rio Tinto to slow pace of Quebec lithium plant as costs soar

Published: Mar 13, 2026 21:32

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Rio Tinto said it will slow the construction pace of the lithium processing plant for the Nemaska Lithium Project in Bécancour, Quebec, Canada, due to a sharp rise in project costs. Most contractors are expected to halt work in the coming weeks, with only a minimal number of workers remaining on site to maintain operations. The plant is currently more than 70% complete and is planned to produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide, with operations originally scheduled to begin in 2028. Full construction activity is expected to resume in 2027. Rio Tinto added that despite the slowdown, it still plans to invest more than $300 million in its Quebec lithium business in 2026 and does not expect significant changes to the overall project timeline.

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