2024 South America Lithium Resources Field Trip - First Stop: NOA Lithium Brines

In recent years, the dramatic fluctuations in lithium prices have made the industry chain experience the "bittersweet" of the market. Although current lithium prices are no longer as glorious as before, under the global advocacy of a low-carbon economy, the development prospects of the new energy industry chain remain bright, and the importance of lithium resources is becoming increasingly prominent.

As one of the regions richest in lithium resources globally, South America, especially the "Lithium Triangle" (Bolivia, Argentina, Chile), holds over 55% of the world's proven lithium resources. Therefore, South America's lithium resources play a crucial role in the global energy transition.

Against this backdrop, SMM organized the 2024 South America Lithium Resources Field Trip. Led by SMM Client Manager Siyu Chen, the delegation visited lithium-related enterprises in South America from November 26 to December 7, 2024, toured local lithium mines and material companies, and held discussions with company executives to explore potential opportunities in lithium ore resource development, technical exchanges, and investment cooperation. On the morning of November 28, SMM and the delegation members headed to NOA Lithium Brines for in-depth exchanges.

Company Statements

SMM and the delegation members arrived at NOA Lithium Brines, where EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN Hernán Miguel Zaballa and CEO & DIRECTOR Gabriel Rubacha warmly received the delegation and provided a detailed introduction to the company's business development.

NOA Lithium Brines Inc. ("NOA") is a lithium mine exploration and development company established to acquire assets with significant resource potential. All of NOA's projects are located in the lithium triangle of Salta, a mining-friendly province in Argentina, near numerous projects and operations owned by some of the largest players in the lithium industry.

Technical Exchange

SMM and the delegation members had in-depth discussions on NOA Lithium Brines' core competencies and future development plans.

NOA has rapidly integrated a very large and impressive portfolio of lithium brine mining rights, occupying key positions in three potential salars (Rio Grande, Arizaro, Salinas Grandes) with a total area exceeding 120,000 hectares. The company's recent mineral resource estimate for the Rio Grande project (July 2024) totals 4.7 million mt LCE (measured, indicated, and inferred), with an average lithium concentration of 525 mg/L. NOA is committed to sustainable and responsible exploration and business activities according to industry best practices, supporting all stakeholders, including the local communities where the company operates.

Field Trip Group Photo

After visiting the factory, SMM and the delegation members took a group photo with NOA Lithium Brines, enhancing the deeper cooperative friendship between them. It is believed that there will be more in-depth exchanges and cooperation in the future!

Through this field trip and survey, SMM and the delegation members gained a deeper understanding of NOA Lithium Brines' products, technology, and company development, as well as a more profound insight into the market status, development trends, and existing issues of the South American lithium battery industry. They will continue to deepen cooperation with large enterprises to achieve complementary advantages and promote the development of the lithium battery industry.