The launch of Tres Quebradas, the second lithium project in the province of Catamarca, marks a new milestone for Argentine mining.
By Panorama Minero
With the presence of provincial and national authorities, as well as international executives, Chinese company Zijin-Liex officially inaugurated the lithium carbonate production plant of the Tres Quebradas (3Q) project in Fiambalá, Tinogasta Department. The event, led by Governor Raúl Jalil and Zijin Chairman Chen Jinghe, marks a turning point in Catamarca’s mining industry: it is the second lithium project to enter production in the province, alongside the historic Fénix project, currently operated by Rio Tinto.
The official ceremony was attended by Governor Raúl Jalil, Zijin Chairman Chen Jinghe, Argentina CEO Gao Jianneng, Minister of Government Fernando Monguillot, National Senator Lucía Corpacci, National Deputy Silvana Ginocchio, Mayor Raúl Úsqueda, legislators, provincial and municipal officials, and special guests. During the ceremony, in addition to the commissioning of the plant, key milestones of the construction process—initiated in the first half of 2022—were reviewed, and attendees toured the production line.
“Mining won’t solve all our problems, but it will give us significant support,” stated Governor Raúl Jalil.
A Value-Added Plant with Global Reach
The 3Q plant will initially produce 20,000 tons per year of industrial-grade lithium carbonate, using advanced adsorption technology. The product is ready for use in the global battery industry, positioning Catamarca as a strategic player in the global energy transition.
Local Impact: Jobs, Infrastructure, and Development
Zijin-Liex currently generates 565 direct jobs, 80% of which are held by residents of Catamarca. Additionally, the company has invested over $5 billion in local procurement and infrastructure projects, including a US$22 million power line that will benefit all of Fiambalá, the Medanitos bridge, and a future bus terminal.
A Vision for Sustainable Mining
During the event, Chen Jinghe emphasized that “Tres Quebradas will become a global benchmark for green and eco-friendly lithium.” The project’s second phase is already underway, aiming to increase production capacity and extend the life of the deposit through 2043.
Catamarca on the Global Lithium Map
With this inauguration, Catamarca strengthens its leadership in South America’s Lithium Triangle, alongside Salta and Jujuy. The 3Q project, located at 4,300 meters above sea level in the heart of the Andes Mountains, is the result of exploration efforts led by the provincial Mining Secretariat, which identified high-potential salt flats such as San Francisco, Karachi Pampa, and Inca Huasi.
