On 12 April, Zhicun Lithium, one of China's leading lithium producers, is disclosed to be in communication with Kazakh Invest in terms of lithium exploration and building processing projects in Kazakhstan.

Kazakh Invest is a national company owned by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, aiming to attract high-quality investment from abroad. Discussions between Kazakh Invest and Zhicun highlighted Kazakhstan's significant lithium potential and strategic importance for developing the industry and fostering long-term cooperation and technology transfer.

This initiative is part of a broader international interest in Kazakhstan's lithium resources. Notably, the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) identified a high-grade lithium deposit in Eastern Kazakhstan last year. KIGAM plans to apply for a drilling survey in the area next year with a Korean company to begin mining the lithium. Additionally, German companies, including Knauf Gruppe and HMS Bergbau AG, have formed a consortia to explore and develop lithium mining in the region, with substantial investment lined up.

The convergence of Chinese, Korean, and German interests in Kazakhstan's lithium reserves highlights the global race for lithium, which has been marked by not only economic opportunities but also geopolitical positioning in securing a “risk-free” supply chain.

Author: Hongqiu Su | Battery Metals Analyst Associate | London Office, Shanghai Metals Market
Email: lilysu@smm.cn