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India's Lithium Hunt: Argentina Extraction Set in 5 Years
17 Aug
Summary
- KABIL expects lithium extraction in Argentina within five years.
- Argentina has offered seven additional lithium exploration blocks.
- KABIL faces expertise challenges in handling lithium brine deposits.
India's state-owned Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) is projected to commence lithium extraction in Argentina within four to five years. This timeline is contingent upon the completion of project feasibility studies, as indicated by a parliamentary panel report.
KABIL secured a significant lithium exploration pact in Argentina in 2024, covering five blocks for approximately $20.92 million. The government of Catamarca has since offered an additional seven greenfield lithium brine blocks, which KABIL is currently assessing.
Further collaborations are in progress. KABIL is nearing a preliminary agreement with Salta province for joint lithium projects and is exploring two greenfield projects in Jujuy province. However, KABIL has noted delays due to a lack of expertise in managing lithium brine deposits.
