New Concessions for Lithium Projects Lie Ahead

The federal government said it will grant concessions for lithium exploitation, but only the state-owned lithium company will be able to participate. In addition, De Luna Lithium Battery's news project in Sonora is expected to create a slew of jobs and boost the lithium value chain in Mexico. According to academics, lithium could bring great benefits to the economy but must be exploited responsibly.

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Government Gears Up to Grant Lithium Concessions in February

While the private sector is looking to participate in lithium exploitation, the federal government reported it will start granting concessions for this activity in February. Nonetheless, the only company allowed to apply will be the state-owned Litio Para México (LitioMx). “We will go to La Ventana, Sonora, where the to-be-granted mine will be delivered to a company that belongs to the nation,” said López Obrador, referring to LitioMx. 

New Lithium Battery Plant to Start Operations Soon

De Luna Lithium Battery expects to invest US$80 million to develop a lithium-ion battery factory for the automotive sector, which will generate 900 new jobs in Hermosillo, Sonora. The company expects to start production in 2023, reaching a volume of 20,000 units in the first year, which will then increase based on demand. In addition, De Luna Lithium Battery said a key factor in consolidating the project has been its close relationship with state authorities.

Lithium May Create Environmental Issues in Puebla, Academics Say

As the lithium industry in Sonora is poised to take off, other states start to look to develop similar projects. According to Valentina Campos, Director of the Institute for Environment Research, Universidad Iberoamericana de Puebla, and Francisco Sánchez, Scholar, Universidad Popular Autónoma del Estado de Puebla (UPAEP), Puebla’s potential for lithium exploitation is steeped in potential reserves along a 2,500km area. Nevertheless, the researchers called for an extensive analysis of the environmental costs it could have.

Finland Looks to Boost Greener Mining Practices in Durango

The Governor of Durango, Esteban Villegas, met with representatives of Finland’s government to discuss opportunities to develop a greener mining industry in the state. Both parties agreed that the experiences of Finland and the similarities between both parties will boost good practices in the sector. 

Mexican Government to Solve Issues With Canadian Mining Companies

President López Obrador revealed that the Canadian government said it was willing to cooperate with Mexico to solve problems with mining companies despite the differences between the parties. López Obrador said that there is room for solutions with three mining companies that have found an issue with the administration and struggle with security.