June 1, 2025 | Minener Staff
Valparaíso, June 1, 2025 — In his final State of the Nation Address, President Gabriel Boric placed Chile’s lithium industry at the heart of his administration’s economic legacy, describing the National Lithium Strategy as a “historic milestone” and a transformative engine for the country’s future growth.
“Chile is, has been, and will continue to be a mining country. That is why the National Lithium Strategy represents a historic milestone—because we are building a new income stream for Chile,” Boric declared before Congress.
The President emphasized that Chile holds the largest and highest-quality lithium reserves in the world and that under his administration, the State has taken on a central role in shaping this industry’s development.
“Within a decade, we will recognize this path for what it is—a legacy of increased public revenue, job creation, and an improved quality of life for Chileans,” he affirmed.
Codelco to Lead in Lithium
A key highlight of Boric’s address was the announcement of progress toward an agreement that would enable Codelco, Chile’s state-owned copper giant, to assume a majority stake in lithium production at the Salar de Atacama.
“Codelco will become a global leader in the lithium market, just as it already is in copper,” said the President.
He added that Codelco’s leadership ensures the nation retains ownership over its critical mineral wealth, while maintaining stable production levels. Importantly, future lithium projects will incorporate advanced, low-impact extraction technologies, designed to increase output while minimizing environmental harm.
New Institutional Framework: Lithium and Salt Flats Institute
President Boric also announced the creation of a new Lithium and Salt Flats Institute, a scientific body dedicated to the social and environmental research of lithium extraction and saline ecosystems. The initiative is expected to guide sustainable development and strengthen regulatory frameworks across the sector.
“There can be no viable growth strategy if we don’t fundamentally change the way we produce—and how we relate to the communities where these industries operate,” he emphasized.
📌 Takeaway
President Boric’s final address reaffirmed the strategic importance of lithium for Chile’s economy and energy transition. With Codelco poised to enter the lithium market and a new institutional foundation under development, the government aims to solidify Chile’s global leadership in sustainable lithium production—balancing growth, environmental stewardship, and local engagement.