[SMM Analysis] IDB Invest to Lead Up to $700-Million Financing for Posco's Lithium Expansion in Argentina

Published: Aug 31, 2026 14:47 (GMT+8)

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On August 28(th), IDB Invest, the private-sector arm of the Inter-American Development Bank, said Friday it will lead financing of up to $700-million for a Posco Holdings unit to expand lithium production at its Sal de Oro project, on the border of Salta and Catamarca provinces, Argentina. The package includes a $250-million loan from IDB Invest, with a further $450-million expected from other institutions.

Per IDB Invest's statement, the financing supports startup and phased expansion of two Posco Argentina plants one for lithium hydroxide, one for lithium carbonate expected to reach about 48,000 t/yr once fully operational, creating around 620 jobs. Figures trace to IDB Invest's statement alone; no independent corroboration from Posco or Argentine authorities.

Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia form the Lithium Triangle, holding the world's largest lithium resources.

SMM View: IDB Invest's $250 million is committed; the remaining $450-million is expected, not closed. The 48,000 t/yr figure is a design target for plants not yet built, with no timeline given.

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