POSCO Completes Base for 50,000-Ton Lithium Hydroxide Chain
POSCO Group completed the foundation for a 50,000-ton lithium hydroxide production system, investing $954 million. The project includes two plants in Argentina and a downstream facility in South Korea, with a total annual capacity of 48,000 tons of lithium carbonate. POSCO plans to expand with two more plants, aiming for 100,000 tons by 2033. The company aims to secure a stable lithium supply for electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
How this was made

The 30-second read
Why it matters
The upstream plant completion marks a key milestone toward a 50,000‑ton lithium‑hydroxide value chain, supporting EV battery supply.
Market read
First report of a major lithium production facility completion, indicating significant supply‑side growth for the EV battery market.
What to watch
Potential regulatory or environmental challenges in Argentina could delay downstream plant completion.
Background
POSCO Group is expanding its lithium business to become a resource developer alongside its steel operations.
Market effects
Strengthens the lithium supply outlook for EV battery manufacturers and may benefit downstream battery and EV stocks.
Boosts South Korean resource diversification and may influence Asian commodity markets.
Adds a new major lithium source, relevant to global EV and energy‑storage supply chains.
Counterpoint
If demand for lithium slows or battery chemistry shifts away from lithium hydroxide, the new capacity could become underutilized.
Key entities
- companyPOSCO Holdings
South Korean steel and resources conglomerate expanding lithium production.
- locationHombre Muerto salt lake
Argentinian brine source for POSCO's lithium extraction.


