EXAR Commits $40 Million to Expand Argentina’s Leading Lithium Plant

EXAR

Joint Venture to Pilot Direct Lithium Extraction at Cauchari-Olaroz for Higher Efficiency and Sustainability

EXAR to Introduce DLE Technology at Cauchari-Olaroz

EXAR, a joint venture formed by Lithium Argentina, Ganfeng Lithium, and Argentina’s state-owned JEMSE, has announced a $40 million expansion at its Cauchari-Olaroz lithium facility. This move will pilot Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology to enhance recovery rates and reduce processing time.

DLE can shorten lithium brine processing from 12 months to just one week. The pilot plant, designed to produce 5,000 tonnes per year, will test the method before full-scale implementation. Although EXAR has not set a construction timeline, the company emphasized its focus on efficiency and sustainability.

Cauchari-Olaroz Leads Argentina’s Lithium Output

In 2024, EXAR became Argentina’s top lithium carbonate producer, delivering 25,400 tonnes. The company forecasts 2025 production to rise between 30,000 and 35,000 tonnes at Cauchari-Olaroz, already the country’s largest lithium operation.

By piloting DLE at this critical facility, EXAR aims to stay ahead in the race to modernize lithium extraction methods. The approach supports Argentina’s broader push to boost domestic processing and minimize environmental impact.

Strategic Partnership Backs Innovation and Growth

The EXAR partnership brings together global expertise and local access. Ganfeng Lithium contributes technical know-how from China, Lithium Argentina offers Swiss-based project oversight, and JEMSE ensures alignment with national development goals.

As demand for battery-grade lithium carbonate surges worldwide, EXAR’s investment could establish Argentina as a leading supplier of sustainably sourced lithium.