In recent years, the dramatic fluctuations in lithium prices have made the industry chain experience all the "sweet and bitter" of the market. Although current lithium prices are no longer as glorious as they once were, 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 Customer 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 exchange, and investment cooperation. On the afternoon of November 28, SMM and the delegation headed to Integra Lithium for in-depth exchanges.
Voices from Enterprises
SMM and the delegation arrived at Integra Lithium, where they were warmly received by the company's Executive Director, Pablo Tarantini, and Chief Geologist, who provided a detailed introduction to the company's business development.
Integra Lithium is committed to advancing cutting-edge power technologies to support global sustainable development. As a high-performing company, Integra Lithium focuses on the diversified development of brine and hard rock lithium resources to consolidate its position as a top global lithium supplier at competitive costs. Currently, the company holds a total of 573,000 hectares of mining rights, of which 496,000 hectares are brine resources, covering areas such as Jujuy, Catamarca, and La Rioja. The company has also partnered with Latin Resources to establish a joint venture project, which is expected to have a mine life of at least 20 years, with potential lithium reserves of 200,000 mt and a lithium grade of 6% Li2O. Drilling work is planned to commence in H1 2024.
Technical Exchange
SMM and the delegation had in-depth discussions on Integra Lithium's core competitiveness and future development plans.
Integra Lithium is the largest private lithium company in Argentina, holding 243,000 hectares of lithium resources in Jujuy and Catamarca provinces. The company has entered into a joint venture with Latin Resources to advance the Catamarca spodumene project. Additionally, the Jama Salt Flats project plans to extract 20,000 mt of LCE annually and collaborate with the provincial enterprise JEMSE to promote the joint development of the local economy and resources.
Group Photo
After visiting the factory, SMM and the delegation took a group photo with Integra Lithium, enhancing their deeper cooperative friendship. It is believed that there will be more in-depth exchanges and cooperation in the future!
Through this field trip, SMM and the delegation gained a deeper understanding of Integra Lithium's 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 major enterprises to achieve complementary advantages and promote the development of the lithium battery industry.
