The Government of Jujuy and Rio Tinto executives held a working meeting to coordinate the 2026 operational agenda, focusing on lithium production, logistics infrastructure and project development across the province.
By Panorama Minero
The meeting brought together Jujuy’s Minister of Mining, José Gómez, JEMSE President Exequiel Lello Ivacevich, and Rio Tinto Lithium executives, including Jérôme Pécresse, Chief Executive for Aluminum and Lithium; Ignacio Costa, General Manager Argentina; and Luciano Mancuso, General Manager of Operations in Argentina. Mario Gerónimo, President of the Olaroz Chico Indigenous Community, also attended.
Post-Arcadium Integration Context
The meeting followed the acquisition of Arcadium Lithium by Rio Tinto, completed in early 2025, within a broader expansion of lithium assets in Argentina.
Participants reviewed 2026 operational plans, investment projections and technological development linked to ongoing capacity expansion in the province.
Logistics and Transport Constraints
Gómez stated that mining activity could exceed 2025 levels, supported by project maturation and the current regulatory framework.
He also highlighted infrastructure constraints. “Mining growth is difficult without adequate road conditions for transporting production,” he said.
Currently, around 120 mining-related trucks circulate daily along National Route 52, a key lithium corridor in northern Argentina.
In parallel, the province reported 138 environmental inspections and 52 approved environmental impact assessments in the latest period.
State Participation in Olaroz Project
Ivacevich referred to JEMSE’s role as a partner in the Olaroz project, operated by Sales de Jujuy, highlighting the presence of the provincial company within the production framework.
“The Jujuy model, with a state-owned company participating in a project that generates value and employment, reflects coordination between private investment and public participation,” he noted.
Community Engagement
Mario Gerónimo, President of the Olaroz Chico Indigenous Community, reaffirmed ongoing local support for mining activity.
“Our absolute priority is our community. We have historically supported mining and intend to continue doing so,” he said.
Argentina Within Rio Tinto’s Global Portfolio
According to the company’s latest annual report, Argentina holds a strategic position within Rio Tinto’s portfolio, with five assets across three provinces, in a context of expanding lithium output.
The meeting in Jujuy forms part of the company’s ongoing operational and investment coordination in the country.
