The Government provided a preview of the National Lithium Strategy that was announced almost a year ago by President Gabriel Boric, with which it aims to double production of the metal in the next decade. This includes declaring some areas of strategic importance, others open for public-private partnerships, a free number for entirely private investment and some as protected reserves.
The Salar de Atacama, where Chile currently produces all of its lithium, as well as Maricunga, are considered of strategic importance, which is why the State will have a majority stake in them.
State-owned companies will be able to negotiate terms with private sector partners in two other areas, while companies will be invited to express interest in a further 26 areas in a tender process, which will open in April.