Mexico, Bolivia Develop Comprehensive Lithium Extraction Roadmap

Mexico and Bolivia are collaborating on the Sustainable Utilization of Lithium: Strengthening Competitiveness and Energy Development project, which aims to create a strategic roadmap for both nations to enter the international lithium market. This initiative also seeks to position Mexico and Bolivia in higher value-added segments of the supply chain, strengthening the electric cell and battery manufacturing industries.

In September 2024, the Joint Technical and Scientific Cooperation Commission of Mexico and Bolivia approved this partnership, which will involve Yacimientos de Litio Bolivianos (YLB) and LitioMx. Rigoberto García, Project Leader, outlined that the initiative will examine regulatory, environmental, and public-private aspects to optimize their actions.

The study is scheduled to commence in November 2024 and will last for 18 months, focusing on identifying the challenges and opportunities associated with the sustainable extraction of lithium. García emphasized that neither country has yet commercialized lithium, yet, although both countries view this resource as a significant potential driver for development. 

Latin America plays a critical role in the global lithium market, with Chile and Argentina as leading producers. However, Chile's production growth has been constrained by internal policies that limit expansion. García projects that Mexico could begin lithium extraction within the next decade, underscoring that strategic planning and collaboration could accelerate its production.

Víctor Rodríguez, CEO, PEMEX, has also announced the government’s initiative to establish two new divisions within the NOC: PEMEX Litio and PEMEX Energía Verde. These divisions will facilitate the effective integration of Mexico’s lithium resources with clean energy development projects, positioning the country advantageously in the global market during the energy transition, said Rodríguez.