Boric Hails Lithium Strategy as “Historic Milestone” for Chile’s Future
President Boric called Chile’s National Lithium Strategy a historic milestone, positioning Codelco to lead lithium production in the Salar de Atacama.
President Boric called Chile’s National Lithium Strategy a historic milestone, positioning Codelco to lead lithium production in the Salar de Atacama.
A Chilean congressional committee has recommended annulling the Codelco–SQM lithium partnership, citing lack of transparency, disproportionate profit distribution, and fiscal risks that could cost the state over US$11 billion. The decision intensifies scrutiny of Chile’s flagship lithium policy.
Codelco and Rio Tinto will jointly develop a lithium project in Chile’s Salar de Maricunga, with investments of up to $900 million and a shared vision to deploy sustainable direct lithium extraction technologies.
Despite high-level optimism, the SQM-Codelco lithium partnership faces major hurdles, including regulatory scrutiny over potassium offtake and potential legal actions from Chilean stakeholders.
Codelco and Rio Tinto are partnering to explore and develop the Nuevo Cobre district in Atacama, leveraging joint capabilities and focusing on sustainable regional growth.
Chile’s Codelco and SQM launch a landmark lithium joint venture in the Salar de Atacama, combining state control with private expertise. The deal boosts Chile’s global lithium leadership while prioritizing sustainability, indigenous rights, and long-term revenue.
Chile’s competition authority (FNE) has approved the strategic joint venture between Codelco and SQM for lithium extraction in the Salar de Atacama. This milestone clears a key regulatory hurdle and brings the alliance one step closer to becoming a major force in the global lithium supply chain.
At Expomin 2025, Codelco is emphasizing sustainability, innovation, and inclusive mining practices, while reinforcing its role as a pillar of Chile’s responsible mining future.
Rio Tinto’s Chief of Copper, Clayton Walker, outlines the company’s ambitions to produce over 200,000 tonnes of copper annually, as it deepens its footprint in Chile through exploration and innovation.