Rio Tinto inaugurates two lithium plants in Argentina with $1.4 billion investment
Rio Tinto opened the Sal de Vida plant and the Fénix 1B expansion in Argentina’s Catamarca province, investing $1.4 billion. The two facilities add 25,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent capacity per year. CEO Simon Trott and Argentine President Javier Milei attended the inauguration. The company said the new capacity is part of a plan to reach 200,000 tons annually by 2028.
Why it matters
The added 25,000 tons expands Rio Tinto’s lithium output, potentially boosting future revenue as demand for battery‑grade lithium grows. The expansion also signals Rio Tinto’s commitment to DLE technology, which could affect its cost structure and competitive position.
Key facts
- 1Rio Tinto invested $1.4 billion in the two new lithium projects. tradingview.com
- 2The Sal de Vida plant and the Fénix 1B expansion will add 25,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent capacity per year. tradingview.com
- 3The inauguration took place on 28 October 2026. investing.com
- 4Rio Tinto CEO Simon Trott and Argentine President Javier Milei attended the opening ceremony. investing.com
- 5Rio Tinto aims to reach 200,000 tons of annual lithium production capacity in Argentina by 2028. investing.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 3 of 3 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.