E3 Lithium and Pure Lithium Collaborate to Revolutionize Lithium Metal Battery Production

E3 Lithium

Canadian lithium developer E3 Lithium and innovative battery manufacturer Pure Lithium have signed an agreement to push the boundaries of lithium metal battery production. The two companies will design a lithium metal anode and battery pilot plant near Calgary, Alberta, leveraging lithium concentrate produced by E3.

Simplifying Lithium Battery Production

The partnership aims to evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of a full-scale lithium metal battery facility located adjacent to lithium production sites in Alberta. By merging Pure Lithium’s brine-to-battery technology with E3’s lithium brines and concentrate production, the collaboration seeks to eliminate the need for a lithium salt intermediary, streamlining the battery production process.

The companies have been working together since mid-2022, achieving a major milestone when Pure Lithium produced a lithium metal battery using E3’s lithium concentrate.

A Vision for Vertical Integration

Once the pilot project is complete, the facility is expected to produce 200kg of lithium metal anodes for lithium metal vanadium rechargeable batteries. If successful, this collaboration could lead to the development of the world’s first vertically integrated lithium metal battery technology, a groundbreaking achievement in the energy storage sector.

Driving Innovation in Alberta

This partnership could position Alberta as a hub for sustainable lithium battery production, with implications for the global battery market. As demand for high-performance batteries rises, this innovative approach could significantly impact the future of energy storage solutions.

Arcadium Acquires Li-Metal's Lithium Metal Unit for $11 Million

In a strategic move to enhance its vertically integrated lithium operations, U.S.-based Arcadium Lithium has acquired the lithium metal business of Canada’s Li-Metal for $11 million, the company announced on Friday. The acquisition includes Li-Metal’s intellectual property pertaining to a novel process that utilizes lithium carbonate instead of lithium chloride as feedstock for lithium metal production, a method anticipated to significantly reduce costs and environmental impact.

As part of the deal, Arcadium will also gain control of Li-Metal’s physical assets, including a pilot manufacturing plant located in Ontario, Canada. This acquisition aligns with Arcadium’s ongoing efforts to optimize its supply chain, as the company currently produces lithium carbonate from brine pools in Argentina and manufactures lithium metal at its Bessemer City facility in North Carolina, utilizing lithium chloride from its Guemes site in Salta, Argentina.

The shift to using lithium carbonate is expected to be more environmentally sustainable, as the traditional method of producing lithium metal from lithium chloride can generate up to 5 metric tonnes of toxic chloride gas per 1 tonne of lithium metal produced, according to Li-Metal.

Pure Lithium Partners with Saint-Gobain to Accelerate Lithium-Metal Battery Membranes

Saint-Gobain

Strategic Collaboration Aims to Advance Next-Generation Battery Technology

US-based battery innovator Pure Lithium has partnered with Saint-Gobain Ceramics to accelerate the production of lithium-metal battery membranes. This collaboration leverages Saint-Gobain’s advanced manufacturing capabilities to commercialize cutting-edge battery separator membranes, a crucial component in next-generation lithium-metal batteries.

Boosting Lithium-Metal Anode Development

Pure Lithium will use Saint-Gobain’s production capacity and R&D expertise to scale up its membrane technology. These membranes enable the electrodeposition of lithium onto substrates to form high-performance lithium-metal anodes or function as separators within battery cells. This advancement aims to enhance energy density and battery efficiency, meeting the increasing demand for high-performance energy storage solutions.

Collaboration with E3 Lithium on Lithium-Vanadium Batteries

As part of its expansion strategy, Pure Lithium is developing a lithium-metal anode in partnership with Canadian lithium developer E3 Lithium. This initiative aligns with the company’s vision to introduce lithium metal-vanadium batteries, incorporating vanadium-based cathode materials to improve battery longevity and stability.

Paving the Way for Next-Generation Energy Storage

The partnership with Saint-Gobain Ceramics and collaboration with E3 Lithium position Pure Lithium as a key player in the future of lithium-metal battery technology. These efforts support the transition towards higher-performance energy storage for EVs, grid storage, and portable electronics.

E3 Lithium and Pure Lithium Join Forces to Revolutionize Battery Production in Canada

In a move set to redefine the landscape of battery manufacturing, Canadian lithium developer E3 Lithium has entered into a collaboration with battery manufacturer Pure Lithium. The two companies have signed an agreement to advance the design and development of a cutting-edge lithium metal anode and battery pilot plant in Canada.

This new facility, to be located near Calgary, Alberta, will leverage lithium concentrate produced by E3 Lithium, utilizing it in the creation of a lithium metal anode—a critical component for next-generation batteries. The partnership aims to explore the technical and economic feasibility of establishing a commercial-scale lithium metal battery facility in proximity to Alberta's rich lithium production sites.

By integrating Pure Lithium's innovative brine-to-battery technology with E3’s established lithium brines and concentrate production, the collaboration seeks to streamline the battery production process by eliminating the need for a lithium salt intermediary. This simplification could lead to more efficient and cost-effective battery manufacturing.

E3 Lithium and Pure Lithium have been collaborating since mid-2022, during which time Pure Lithium successfully produced a lithium metal battery using E3’s lithium concentrate. The upcoming pilot project will be a significant step towards commercial production, with plans to potentially scale up to produce 200kg of lithium metal anodes for advanced lithium metal vanadium rechargeable batteries.

If the pilot proves successful, the companies intend to pursue the development of the world’s first vertically integrated lithium metal battery technology, setting a new standard in the global battery industry.

Pure Lithium Secures $300mn EXIM Support for US-Based Lithium Metal Battery Facility

Pure Lithium Corporation

Pure Lithium has received a $300 million Letter of Interest (LOI) from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM) to support its planned industrial-scale lithium metal battery plant. If approved, the Pure Lithium EXIM loan would fall under EXIM’s “Make More in America” initiative aimed at rebuilding domestic manufacturing capacity and securing supply chains in strategic sectors like energy storage.

The proposed facility will use Pure Lithium’s proprietary “Brine to Battery” process, which directly converts brine into lithium metal anodes—eliminating graphite, cobalt, nickel, and manganese. This vertically integrated method enables a fully US-based battery supply chain, from raw material extraction to cell production. CEO Emilie Bodoin emphasized the project's potential to reshape global lithium battery sourcing models.

Disruptive Battery Chemistry Supports Strategic US Objectives

The Pure Lithium EXIM loan could accelerate commercialization of lithium metal vanadium oxide batteries, which offer higher energy density without relying on traditional cathode materials. This technology positions Pure Lithium at the forefront of post-Li-ion battery innovation, directly supporting the U.S. push for clean tech self-reliance.

Pure Lithium’s partnerships reinforce its vertically integrated vision. It sources lithium concentrate from E3 Lithium in Alberta, Canada, and collaborates with Saint-Gobain Ceramics to engineer water-blocking lithium-selective membranes—a key component in its novel extraction process.

EXIM Financing to Boost US Battery Supply Chain Resilience

EXIM’s Make More in America strategy supports projects that improve domestic industrial competitiveness in sectors facing global strategic risk. The Pure Lithium EXIM loan would directly address U.S. concerns over dependence on foreign-dominated battery material supply chains, especially China.

If finalized, the funding will catalyze Pure Lithium’s ability to scale manufacturing within U.S. borders while lowering barriers for next-generation battery adoption. This aligns with U.S. energy security goals and rising demand for alternative battery chemistries in defense, mobility, and grid storage sectors.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The Pure Lithium EXIM loan represents a critical step in reshoring advanced battery manufacturing. As supply chain risks intensify and lithium metal demand grows, projects that fuse innovation with domestic sourcing will shape the next era of U.S. battery independence.

Lyten Begins Lithium Metal Foil Production in the US

Lyten

Lithium-Metal Anode Manufacturing Moves Closer to Full Domestic Supply Chain

Lyten, a US-based battery manufacturer, has officially begun lithium metal foil production to strengthen domestic control of the battery anode supply chain. The company processes lithium metal from a partner's East Coast facility, converting it into battery-grade anodes at its own plant. This development positions Lyten as a key player in reshoring battery component manufacturing.

The process involves manufacturing lithium metal alloys in ingot form, then extruding and rolling them into foils for integration into lithium-metal anodes. Lyten aims to transition all lithium sourcing to within the United States, reducing dependence on South American supply.

Lyten’s Lithium-Sulfur Batteries Avoid Critical Mineral Risks

Lyten claims its Lithium-Sulfur batteries require no nickel, cobalt, manganese, or graphite—materials subject to trade tensions and environmental scrutiny. As a result, the company expects to bypass US tariffs and critical minerals risk, gaining a strategic edge. Lyten also acquired a California battery facility from Northvolt and secured a $650mn letter of intent from the US Export-Import Bank to scale up operations.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Lyten’s domestic lithium foil production signals a pivotal shift toward US battery independence. Its unique Lithium-Sulfur chemistry eliminates key mineral dependencies, offering long-term geopolitical and economic advantages.

Pure Lithium’s Acquisition Advances LVO Battery Technology

Pure Lithium

Pure Lithium, a Massachusetts-based battery manufacturer, has acquired the assets of New York-based vanadium cathode producer Dimien. This acquisition is a strategic move to further commercialize Pure Lithium's lithium metal-vanadium oxide (LVO) battery, which the company claims is safer, more cost-effective, and more efficient than traditional electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

A Safer, More Efficient Battery Technology

As part of the deal, Pure Lithium will gain access to Dimien's intellectual property, manufacturing equipment, and some personnel. Dimien is known for its zeta vanadium oxide (ZVO) cathode material, which Pure Lithium plans to pair with the lithium metal anode it is developing in collaboration with Canada-based E3 Lithium. This combination promises higher energy density and reduced fire risks compared to conventional nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) and nickel-manganese-aluminum (NMA) batteries.

Pure Lithium aims to streamline its production process, producing lithium metal-vanadium batteries in just 48 hours. The company is also exploring the possibility of constructing a commercial battery facility in Alberta, Canada, near E3 Lithium’s brine deposits. Financial terms and the acquisition's closing date were not disclosed.

Xinjiang Nonferrous in China Begins Lithium Carbonate Production

Lithium Carbonate

Xinjiang Nonferrous Metal, a state-owned producer in China, has commenced lithium carbonate production at a facility located in the Hetian area of northwest China's Xinjiang region.

This project, with a designed capacity of 100,000 tons per year for lithium salts, will be developed in two phases. The initial phase includes the production of 30,000 tons per year of lithium carbonate, 30,000 tons per year of lithium hydroxide, and 15,000 tons per year of lithium chloride.

Construction of the first phase began in July of last year, and by the end of May, the company had produced its first batch of qualified products from the 30,000 t/yr lithium carbonate line. The goal for this year is to produce 12,000 tons.

Details regarding the construction timelines and launch dates for the second phase, which will produce 25,000 tons per year of lithium salts, remain undisclosed.

Xinjiang Nonferrous is developing an integrated facility encompassing mining, separation, and processing, with the capacity to process 3 million tons of lithium ore annually to produce 600,000 tons of high-grade lithium concentrate. The company plans to commence mining operations in the coming months, aiming for an annual production of 130,000 tons of concentrate this year.

In 2019, the company acquired exploration rights for rare metals in the Hetian area for 2 billion yuan ($276 million). The area's measured and controlled lithium ore resources total 50 million tons, equivalent to 700,000 tons of lithium oxide. Resource estimates are expected to increase to 100 million tons, equivalent to 1.5 million tons of lithium oxide, upon completion of exploration.

Chinese lithium producers are ramping up production both domestically and internationally to meet strong demand from the electric vehicle battery industry. Another domestic lithium producer, Hunan Anneng Ganfeng, is also set to commence production at a 25,000 t/yr lithium carbonate plant in October.

The rapid increase in output has outpaced demand growth, leading to a decline in prices. On June 19, Metalnomist assessed prices for 99.5% grade lithium carbonate at 94,500-99,500 yuan per ton ex-works, down by over 80% from their record highs in November 2022. Increased supplies from Qinghai, China's main production hub for lithium extracted from brines, have continued during the warmer summer months. Some major producers may reduce output if prices continue to fall.

Atlantic Lithium Reviews Terms for Ewoyaa Lithium Project in Ghana

Atlantic Lithium

The Ewoyaa Lithium Project Ghana is under fiscal review as Atlantic Lithium renegotiates terms with the Ghanaian government. Lithium prices have dropped sharply since the project's mining lease was granted in October 2023. As a result, Atlantic Lithium is seeking to realign fiscal terms to ensure project viability and stakeholder value.

Declining Prices Prompt Fiscal Talks

Atlantic Lithium and the Ghanaian government are discussing adjustments to the fiscal framework. Currently, Ghana holds a 13% free-carried interest and applies a 10% royalty on production. The project, with 36.8mn tonnes of resources grading 1.24% lithium oxide, was based on a spodumene price of $1,410/t. However, spot prices have since declined, impacting economic forecasts for the Ewoyaa Lithium Project Ghana.

The project is a joint venture among Atlantic Lithium and Piedmont Lithium, each holding 40.5%, while Ghana’s government and the Minerals Income Investment Fund own the remainder. Executive chairman Neil Herbert expressed confidence that stakeholder collaboration and prudent adjustments will move the project forward despite market challenges.

Long-Term Strategic Importance

The Ewoyaa Lithium Project Ghana remains strategically important for West Africa’s emerging battery metal supply chain. While price volatility introduces risk, the project's resource size and infrastructure readiness offer long-term upside. Fiscal stability and competitive terms will be critical to achieving production milestones and attracting future investment in Ghana’s lithium sector.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Ghana’s openness to renegotiating fiscal terms reflects a pragmatic approach in response to falling lithium prices. Successful resolution could position the Ewoyaa project as a cornerstone of Africa’s lithium supply chain strategy.

Zhejiang Zhongneng Expands Lithium Carbonate Output as China Strengthens Battery Material Supply Chain

Zhejiang Zhongneng

Phase one of major lithium project goes online, boosting domestic capacity and intensifying price pressure

China’s New Era Group Zhejiang Zhongneng Cycle Technology has begun production at its new lithium carbonate facility in Shaoxing, Zhejiang province. The site launched with 10,000 tonnes per year (t/yr) capacity in phase one, marking a key milestone in China’s battery materials expansion strategy.

The company originally announced the project in 2023, targeting total output of 30,000 t/yr of lithium carbonate and 150,000 t/yr of iron phosphate. When fully operational, the facility will significantly increase the country’s supply of key battery-grade materials.

Lithium supply surge expected to influence market prices

With the new line now operational, Zhejiang Zhongneng has raised its total lithium carbonate capacity from 8,000 t/yr to 18,000 t/yr. The firm has not yet shared a launch date for the project’s second phase. Market participants expect that increasing supplies—especially from China—could put downward pressure on lithium prices in the near term.

The facility uses feedstock primarily from recycled lithium-ion batteries and crude cobalt hydroxide, underlining China’s push for a circular economy in battery raw materials. The firm also produces cobalt sulphate, cobalt chloride, cobalt metal, and nickel sulphate.

Nickel and cobalt expansion complements lithium growth

In 2024, Zhejiang Zhongneng produced 10,000 tonnes of cobalt (metal equivalent) and now targets 12,000 tonnes for 2025. The company also plans to double nickel production from 3,000 tonnes to 6,000 tonnes this year, strengthening its multi-metal portfolio for battery supply chains.

Competition is also heating up abroad. On 12 February, Ganfeng Lithium launched a 20,000 t/yr lithium chloride facility in northern Argentina, part of its Mariana project. With both domestic and international supply set to grow, market sentiment will remain under pressure in 2025.

Tianqi Lithium Boosts Lithium Salts Output Despite Lower Spodumene Production

Tianqi Lithium

Tianqi Lithium increased chemical lithium output in 2024, balancing weaker spodumene concentrate production from its Australian operations.

Lithium Chemical Production Surges at Anju Facility

Chinese producer Tianqi Lithium reported a 39% increase in lithium salts output in 2024, reaching 70,715 tonnes. This includes lithium carbonate, hydroxide, chloride, and metal produced across China and Australia. The ramp-up at the Anju factory in Sichuan province drove most of the increase, bringing the company’s global chemical capacity to 91,600 t/yr.

Meanwhile, Tianqi canceled phase two of its Kwinana lithium hydroxide plant in Australia due to economic concerns. The first phase, with 24,000 t/yr capacity, remains in operation. Tianqi aims to reach 122,600 t/yr in future chemical capacity.

Spodumene Output Falls, but Resources Remain Strong

In contrast, spodumene concentrate output fell by 7.4% to 1.41 million tonnes at the Greenbushes mine in Australia. Tianqi and IGO’s joint venture owns 51% of Greenbushes, with Albemarle holding the other 49%. Despite the dip, Greenbushes remains the world’s largest and lowest-cost hard rock lithium mine.

Tianqi plans to start production at a 520,000 t/yr Plant 3 project in October 2025, aiming to expand its spodumene processing capabilities.

Meanwhile, Greenbushes’ total lithium resources held steady at 440 million tonnes, or 16 million tonnes LCE. However, proven reserves dipped to 8.1 million tonnes LCE from 8.5 million the year before.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Tianqi Lithium’s focus on ramping up downstream capacity shows a strategic pivot toward value-added products. While mining volumes fluctuate, control over refining capacity secures margin stability amid global lithium price volatility.

Atlas Lithium Granted Permits for Brazil Refinery Plant Expansion

Atlas Lithium

Atlas Lithium, a prominent U.S.-based lithium producer, has secured key permits from the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, to build and operate its lithium refinery. This significant step comes as part of Atlas's ambitious expansion plan to scale up lithium concentrate production by mid-2025. With an expected production capacity of 300,000 tons per year, the refinery will process ore extracted from one of Atlas's deposits, significantly boosting the company's position in the global lithium market.

The permit approval encompasses 85 mineral rights spread across approximately 468 square kilometers in the Brazilian states of Neves, Coronel Murta, Eastern Properties, Itinga, Salinas, Santa Clara, and Tesouras. This extensive area is critical for securing the long-term supply of lithium, a key component in the production of electric vehicle batteries and energy storage solutions.

"We are thrilled with today's announcement, as permitting is widely considered the most critical risk in any mining project," said Marc Fogassa, CEO of Atlas Lithium. This announcement marks a key milestone in the company's strategy to meet the increasing demand for lithium, which has surged due to the growth of the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors.

Strategic Partnerships for Global Lithium Supply

Atlas Lithium has secured offtake agreements with leading international companies, including Mitsui, a major Japanese trading house, as well as Chengxin Lithium Group and Yahua Industrial Group from China. These partnerships are crucial for Atlas to ensure its lithium concentrate reaches global markets, as demand for the metal continues to rise.

Lithium is an essential mineral for the production of batteries used in electric vehicles (EVs), consumer electronics, and large-scale energy storage systems, making Atlas’s production expansion pivotal in the global energy transition. The strategic collaborations with Mitsui and Chinese firms underscore the importance of securing supply chains and meeting global demand for critical raw materials.

US New Tariffs Could Disrupt China's Non-Exempt Metals Exports

China Tariffs

New tariffs on lithium, rare earth magnets, and more could affect China's metal exports to the US.

The United States has announced significant new tariffs on Chinese imports, with a notable focus on metals. While many non-ferrous metals and ferro-alloys have been exempted, some crucial exports from China, like lithium, rare earth magnets, and lithium-ion batteries, will face substantial increases in tariff rates. These changes are set to have a lasting impact on the trade between the US and China, especially in the energy storage and electric vehicle (EV) sectors.

High Tariffs on Lithium-Ion Batteries and Energy Storage

As of April 9, the US will implement an 82.4% tariff on electric vehicle (EV) power batteries and a 57.4% tariff on non-EV lithium-ion batteries from China. This substantial hike in tariffs will make Chinese-made batteries far more expensive and may eliminate the possibility of Chinese EV power batteries entering the US market. US consumers will likely absorb these costs, potentially leading to inflation in the US battery industry, especially in the energy storage sector.

China’s lithium-ion battery exports to the US had already been on the rise, with a 59% increase in exports during the first two months of the year. However, these new tariffs are expected to curb the growth of China's battery exports to the US and negatively affect lithium feedstock prices, which are currently at a four-year low.

Impact on Rare Earth Magnets

Rare earth magnets are another key area of concern, as these products were not exempted from the new tariffs. Despite some uncertainty about the exact tariff implementation, producers in China are anxious about the potential 54% tariff on rare earth magnets. China remains the dominant supplier of rare earth magnets globally, and while the US does have some alternatives, they are mostly focused on military applications with significantly higher prices. This makes it unlikely that the US can fully escape its dependence on China, especially for civilian applications.

China’s exports of rare earth magnets to the US in 2022 accounted for 12% of its total exports, and while tariffs could reduce this figure, China’s competitive pricing in the civil sector ensures its continued dominance in the global market.

Copper, Aluminium, and Hafnium: Other Affected Metals

While copper and aluminium are exempt from this latest round of tariffs, the copper industry remains on edge. US authorities are investigating the potential security implications of copper imports, and there’s speculation that a tariff may be imposed in the future. As for aluminium, Chinese exports are already subject to a steep 70% tariff, which is expected to discourage further aluminium exports to the US, pushing Chinese suppliers to seek alternative markets.

Hafnium, a critical metal used in aerospace applications, will also face a significant tariff hike, moving from 34% to 79%. This change could prompt US buyers to source hafnium from other regions, like Rotterdam, where the tariff is considerably lower.

Conclusion

The new US tariffs on Chinese metals exports are set to reshape the global metals market, particularly for lithium-ion batteries, rare earth magnets, and hafnium. While some sectors, like copper and aluminium, may have avoided immediate tariff hikes, long-term implications for the industry remain uncertain. The tariff increase on key metal exports from China to the US is expected to alter supply chains and increase costs for US consumers, especially in the EV and energy storage markets.

Chile’s La Isla Lithium Deposit Set to Become Major Project, Enami Reports

Enami

Chile’s La Isla salt flat, located in the northern Atacama region, is on track to become the country’s third-largest lithium project, according to the national mining company Enami. Recent exploration drilling at La Isla returned promising results, with lithium concentrations averaging 921 milligrams per liter (mg/l) and reaching a maximum of 979 mg/l over a depth of 252 meters.

Chile holds the world’s largest lithium reserves, accounting for 36-40% of the global total. Most of these reserves are concentrated in the Atacama salt flat in the Antofagasta region, which has positioned Chile as a major player in the global lithium market. In 2023, the state copper company Codelco reported even higher lithium concentrations at the nearby Maricunga salt flat, where they averaged over 1,000 mg/l after drilling 10 holes.

La Isla: Part of the Altoandinos Lithium Project

La Isla is part of Enami’s broader Altoandinos lithium project, which also includes the Aguilar and Grande salt flats in the same region. Earlier exploration at Aguilar returned lower average lithium concentrations of 740 mg/l, with a maximum of 984 mg/l.

In an effort to enhance lithium extraction methods while minimizing environmental impact, Enami has partnered with eight international laboratories to test direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies. Among the participating companies are France’s Adionics and Eramet, U.S.-based Lilac Solutions and SLB, China’s CADL-Lanshen, Australia’s Rio Tinto, Canada’s Nanotech, and the UK’s WaterCycle Technologies.

Additionally, Enami is negotiating with six companies to select a partner for the operation and financing of the Altoandinos project, with a decision expected by March 2025. Chile, currently the world’s second-largest lithium producer, continues to rely on output from the Atacama salt flat, and the development of La Isla will further solidify its position as a key global supplier of this essential metal.

Patriot Expands Quebec Lithium Resource, Cementing Largest Pegmatite Deposit in the Americas

Patriot Battery Metals

Patriot's Shaakichiuwaanaan Project Emerges as a Strategic Lithium Asset

Patriot Battery Metals has increased indicated resources by 30% at its Quebec-based Shaakichiuwaanaan Lithium Project, reinforcing its position as the largest lithium pegmatite resource in the Americas. This development positions Canada as a growing heavyweight in the global battery metals supply chain.

The updated resource now totals 108 million metric tonnes, grading 1.4% lithium oxide. This equates to 3.75 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) — a critical input for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and energy storage systems. Located in the mineral-rich Eeyou Istchee James Bay region, the deposit is also the eighth largest lithium pegmatite resource globally, according to Patriot.

Strategic Metals Strengthen Project Value Beyond Lithium

In addition to lithium, the study revealed significant concentrations of tantalum, cesium, and gallium. These strategic metals play essential roles in electronics, semiconductors, and aerospace alloys. Their presence enhances the project’s economic potential and aligns with North America’s broader push for critical mineral independence.

Patriot’s advancement comes at a time when global supply chains are recalibrating around domestic resources. With China and other suppliers tightening controls on strategic materials, Western governments and manufacturers are increasingly turning to Canadian and U.S. projects for secure sourcing.

Feasibility Study Targeted for 2025

Patriot Battery Metals plans to release a maiden ore reserve and feasibility study by Q3 2025, based on the latest resource estimates. This timeline reflects growing investor interest in North American lithium development amid surging demand from the EV and energy sectors.

Meanwhile, the project's location in Quebec offers distinct advantages, including renewable hydroelectric power, government support, and proximity to U.S. manufacturing hubs.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Patriot’s 30% increase in lithium resources signals a strong step forward in North America’s bid for battery metal self-reliance. With a diversified mix of strategic metals and a globally ranked resource base, the Shaakichiuwaanaan Project stands poised to become a cornerstone in the Western critical minerals ecosystem.

PowerStone Metals Acquires Libra Lithium to Bolster Lithium Exploration in Canada

PowerStone Metals

In a strategic move to enhance its position in the critical minerals sector, Canadian mineral explorer PowerStone Metals has signed a definitive agreement to merge with Libra Lithium. This all-stock merger aims to accelerate the exploration and development of essential minerals like lithium, pivotal for the burgeoning battery and renewable energy markets.

Expanding Lithium Resources

The merger brings together PowerStone's robust exploration capabilities with Libra Lithium's significant assets, including six lithium projects in Ontario and one in Quebec, focusing on pegmatite and sedimentary resources. Additionally, Libra Lithium is currently engaged in a $33 million earn-in deal with US-based KoBold Metals. This partnership is set to explore Libra’s notable projects such as Flanders South, Flanders North, and Soules Bay-Caron in Ontario, leveraging KoBold's cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to pinpoint new critical metal deposits.

Strategic Implications for the Lithium Market

This merger is expected to create a formidable entity in the mineral exploration industry, particularly within the lithium sector, which is critical for the production of electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy solutions. The integration of PowerStone and Libra Lithium's resources and technological collaborations highlights a significant step towards securing a stable and efficient supply chain for lithium in North America, amidst growing global demand.

Japan Eyes Investments in Argentinian Lithium as Demand for Battery Metals Grows

Argentina lithium

Salta Province Attracts Japanese Interest Through RIGI and Strategic Bilateral Proposals

Japan eyes investments in Argentinian lithium to secure long-term access to key battery metals amid global electrification efforts. Japanese government officials recently met with authorities from Argentina’s Salta province to assess the region’s lithium reserves and explore opportunities for partnership. The talks focused on Salta’s lithium potential and included inquiries into major mining projects across multiple commodities—signaling broader strategic interest in Argentina’s resource sector.

While lithium was the main focus, Japanese officials also discussed First Quantum’s Taca Taca copper project, the Lindero gold mine operated by the UK’s Mansfield, and silver exploration by Abrasilver and Anglogold. Japan’s delegation reportedly requested support for a bilateral investment grant, which, alongside Argentina’s Régimen de Incentivo para Grandes Inversiones (RIGI), could fast-track Japanese capital into the province’s mining sector.

Argentina’s Investment Incentives Align with Japan’s Supply Chain Strategy

The RIGI framework offers approved projects reduced tax burdens, lower royalties, simplified customs procedures, and accounting flexibility. These benefits are designed to attract large-scale foreign investment into Argentina’s high-potential mining regions. As Japan eyes investments in Argentinian lithium, RIGI could serve as a key enabler for Japanese companies seeking stable, long-term access to battery-grade lithium and related critical minerals.

The visit underscores Japan’s strategy to diversify supply chains away from China, especially for electric vehicle and energy storage technologies. By tapping into Argentina’s lithium triangle, Japan can enhance its resource security while supporting Latin America’s role in the global clean energy transition.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Japan’s proactive engagement in Argentina’s Salta province reflects a targeted push to secure non-Chinese lithium supply. As battery metal demand accelerates, bilateral frameworks like RIGI and diplomatic investment channels will shape the next wave of global critical minerals partnerships.

Origen Resources Launches Lithium Exploration at Los Sapitos in Argentina

Origen Resources

Canadian Miner Targets Untapped Brine Fields Outside Lithium Triangle

Origen Begins Lithium Survey in Argentina's San Juan Province

Origen Resources, a Canadian mining company, has initiated lithium exploration at the Los Sapitos project in Argentina’s San Juan province. This marks the company’s first step toward unlocking potential lithium reserves in a region that lies 600km south of South America’s famed Lithium Triangle.

The 270km² salt flat features lithium-rich brine extending to a depth of 482 meters. While the area has remained untouched by commercial mining, Origen sees strong promise as global lithium demand surges.

Exploration Model Draws from Nevada's Clayton Valley

Origen is applying an exploration model based on successful brine extraction strategies from Clayton Valley, Nevada — home to the only commercial lithium brine operation in the United States. By leveraging this model, Origen aims to locate high-potential drilling zones efficiently.

According to the company, this approach could help identify lithium deposits in previously overlooked regions. By operating outside crowded markets, Origen hopes to secure strategic advantages and access to future supply opportunities.

Project Timeline and Output Projections Remain Unclear

Despite the promising geology, Origen has not yet announced a start date for construction or shared production targets for Los Sapitos. The company remains in the early exploration phase, with the goal of confirming viable drilling locations before advancing to the development stage.

As battery metal demand continues to rise, particularly for electric vehicles and energy storage, new entrants like Origen could play a pivotal role in diversifying global lithium supply chains.

China Enhances Metal Reserves Through Strategic Discoveries

The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR)

A Boost to Global Metal Supply Stability

Significant Metal Finds Across China: From 2021 to 2024, China has made substantial discoveries in key nonferrous metals, including lithium, copper, and rare earths. These findings are part of Beijing's broader strategy under the country's 14th five-year economic development plan, reinforcing its position as a major player in the global metal market.

Impact on Lithium and Rare Earths Production

China as a Stabilizer in Lithium Markets: The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) reported that China's domestic lithium production has risen by over 30%, thanks to new finds, particularly in spodumene and salt lake brines. These discoveries have positioned China as the world's third-largest lithium producer from salt lake brines.

Rare Earths and Other Minerals: New rare earth deposits were identified in several provinces, enhancing China’s capability in this critical sector. Discoveries of other minerals like bauxite and nickel ore have also been reported, driven by technological advancements in mining.

Chilean Lithium to Gain from US IRA Benefits

Chilean lithium products are set to benefit from tax exemptions in the United States, thanks to a new inter-governmental agreement. This development has sparked optimism for increased investment in South America's metal and energy transition supply chains.

Lithium products will be included in the provisions of the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), according to Chile's economy ministry. This inclusion will enable Chile to export primary lithium materials to the US, along with cathode materials and higher-value lithium by-products.

The US IRA, enacted in 2022, provides tax breaks and other incentives aimed at boosting battery and energy transition supply chains across North America.

Chile, home to the world's largest lithium reserves, is the second-largest producer of lithium, following Australia. In 2023, Chile's lithium production reached 225,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent.