Argentina could have about 200,000 tons of lithium carbonate for export by 2025, said Roberto Salvarezza, CEO of Y-TEC (YPF Tecnología) and YPF Litio.
Salvarezza explained that currently, two companies are already producing in the salt flats on the border of the provinces of Catamarca and Salta (northeast), exporting about 40,000 tons of lithium carbonate.
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He added that another 20 projects are under development, almost all by foreigners.
For its part, YPF has decided to participate in the exploration and exploitation of this resource and has signed a contract with the mining company Catamarca Minera y Energética, the minister said.
Salvarezza clarified that the goal is not only to extract lithium carbonate but also to industrialize it, as is the case with gas.
Argentina, along with Bolivia and Chile, is part of the so-called Lithium Triangle, a group of salt lakes where more than 85% of the world’s lithium reserves are located.