Rio Tinto opens $1.4 bn Fénix 1B expansion and Sal de Vida lithium projects in Argentina
Rio Tinto inaugurated its Fénix 1B expansion and the new Sal de Vida operation in Catamarca, Argentina, with President Javier Milei and provincial officials in attendance. The two facilities together represent a $1.4 billion investment and will add about 25,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) capacity once fully ramped up. Rio Tinto aims to reach 200,000 tonnes of annual LCE production across its global portfolio by 2028, with the Argentine projects providing the bulk of that growth.
Why it matters
The added 25,000 tonnes of LCE capacity expands Rio Tinto's lithium supply, supporting its target of 200,000 tonnes by 2028 and strengthening Argentina’s role as a lithium source. The company said around 70% of the roughly $4 billion planned lithium capital in Argentina will be spent with local suppliers, potentially boosting the domestic supply chain.
Key facts
- 1Rio Tinto invested about $1.4 billion in the Fénix 1B expansion and Sal de Vida operation. batteriesnews.com
- 2The two projects will contribute roughly 25,000 tonnes of annual LCE capacity when fully operational. batteriesnews.com
- 3Fénix 1B adds 10,000 tonnes of LCE capacity, bringing the site’s total to about 40,000 tonnes. batteriesnews.com
- 4Sal de Vida is designed for 15,000 tonnes of annual LCE capacity. batteriesnews.com
- 5Rio Tinto targets 200,000 tonnes of annual LCE production capacity worldwide by 2028. stockhead.com.au
- 6Approximately 70% of the estimated $4 billion lithium growth capital in Argentina is expected to be spent with local suppliers. batteriesnews.com
Summary written by AlphAI AI Desk from 2 of 2 sources. Not investment advice. Figures are as stated by the linked sources.