Chinese lithium projects in Argentina in danger as newly elected president reportedly claims Argentina would not do business with China or will join the BRICS alliance

Javier Milei, a prominent figure from Argentina's far-right political spectrum, has triumphed in the presidential campaign. He has openly stated his stance, "Argentina will not entertain trade with China, nor will it partake in the BRICS alliance." At present, Chinese capital is heavily invested in a multitude of salt lake projects across Argentina, which include Sal de Los Angeles (SDLA), Cauchari-Olaroz, Mariana, Pozuelos Pastos Grandes, and Centenario-Ratones. The aggregated yield of lithium carbonate from these ventures is projected to be approximately 13,000 mt in 2023, with predictions estimating a surge to 29,000 mt in 2024.