Posco Argentina, a subsidiary of the South Korean mining company Posco, has taken a crucial step in developing the country's lithium sector with the inauguration of the first commercial lithium hydroxide plant. Located in the General Güemes Industrial Park in Salta Province, the plant has an annual production capacity of 25,000 tons and represents an investment of over US$800 million. "This facility positions Argentina as a key supplier in the global lithium-ion battery market, essential for high-end electric vehicles," provincial government officials stated.
By Panorama Minero
The inauguration event brought together significant figures from the political and business spheres, including the governors of the Lithium Triangle provinces: Gustavo Sáenz (Salta), Raúl Jalil (Catamarca), and Carlos Sadir (Jujuy), as well as the South Korean ambassador to Argentina, Lee Yong Soo, and senior executives from Posco. The ceremony emphasized the plant's relevance for the economic development of the region, highlighting the creation of over 3,800 jobs, including more than 300 direct jobs, and the strengthening of the local value chain through the integration of over 60 suppliers.
Posco's plant is a milestone for lithium hydroxide production in Argentina, distinguishing itself from the other four plants in the country that specialize in producing lithium carbonate. This technological advancement not only allows the company to access new markets but also meets the growing global demand for high-performance batteries used by luxury electric vehicle manufacturers.
Governor Gustavo Sáenz emphasized the importance of the inauguration for Salta and Argentina: "This project not only brings investment but also confirms confidence in our province's potential. We are building a future where mining and community development go hand in hand." Sáenz also stressed the long-term impact this plant will have on the local economy and its role in consolidating Argentina as a key player in the international lithium market.
For his part, Ambassador Lee Yong Soo underscored the project's impact on the bilateral relationship between Argentina and South Korea, stating, "The start of production at this plant marks a milestone in our history of over 160 years of friendship and collaboration. It will contribute not only to the development of Salta but also to strengthening the global supply chain of this strategic mineral."
Since acquiring mining rights in the Salar del Hombre Muerto in 2018, Posco has steadily invested in the "Sal de Oro" project, located on the provincial borders of Salta and Catamarca. With the construction of a demonstration plant in 2020 and progress towards building two commercial plants, Posco Argentina is establishing itself as a leader in lithium production in the region, projecting Argentina as one of the world's leading producers of this critical resource.
