Chile’s Codelco continues lithium push despite slow progress
Mining minister says state-run miner, the world’s largest copper producer, will commit $57m for further exploration of the battery mineral
Toronto — Chilean state-run miner Codelco will continue to develop its lithium assets, including committing $57m for further exploration, Chile’s mining minister said , even as progress has stagnated at its flagship projects. The company, the world’s largest copper producer, has tried unsuccessfully in recent years to attract a partner to develop its lithium projects in Chile, stifled by legal and regulatory hurdles. Lithium, a highly sought after metal used to make electric vehicle batteries, remains a priority for not only Codelco, but also for the country’s government under President Sebastian Pinera, mining minister Baldo Prokurica said in an interview on the sidelines of the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada conference in Toronto. “The Pinera government is looking to ensure that both lithium and other battery metals are being exploited,” Prokurica said late on Tuesday. “If we have this wealth and this mineral, we obviously want to use it.” Prokurica’s comments fo...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.