Chile to Approve Two More Lithium Concessions in Salar de Quillagua

Llamara Group

New CEOL Approvals Strengthen Chile’s Lithium Expansion Strategy

Chile’s mining ministry is advancing the approval process for two new special lithium operation contracts (CEOL) in the Salar de Quillagua salt flat. The approvals will go to two groups: the Llamara Group, a consortium of Chilean miners, and a Chilean-Canadian partnership formed by Sociedad Minera Aspromin, Wealth Minerals Chile, Inversiones Valeska Minerals, and Alto Exploradora. Each will be allowed to explore distinct northern and eastern sectors of the salt flat, with rights to exploit up to 80% of their allocated areas.

Indigenous Agreements and Global Lithium Competition

Before receiving final mining approval, both groups must secure agreements with indigenous communities potentially impacted by their operations. The mining ministry anticipates these negotiations will conclude within months; otherwise, a public bidding process will be launched. Since 2023, Chile has required all lithium projects to secure a CEOL via public-private partnerships, a framework designed to balance resource development with local and environmental considerations. This year alone, Chile has advanced five other CEOLs, awarded to companies including France’s Eramet, a joint venture between Eramet, Quiborax and state-owned Codelco, the Caliche Kairos consortium, and two to Rio Tinto.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Chile’s accelerated CEOL approvals signal a strategic push to strengthen its global position in the lithium market amid growing EV demand. However, the requirement for indigenous agreements underscores the country’s effort to balance economic growth with social responsibility. For international investors, timely alignment with local stakeholders will be crucial to securing long-term operational stability.