ExpansionMay 14, 2026, 04:07 PM
Lithium Argentina Secures RIGI Approval for 45,000 tpa LCE Expansion
AI Summary
Lithium Argentina AG announced that the Stage 2 expansion of its Cauchari-Olaroz lithium brine operation has received approval from Argentina's Large Investment Incentive Regime (RIGI) Evaluation Committee. This expansion aims to add 45,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) to the existing 40,000 tpa capacity. The RIGI approval is a significant milestone, offering 30 years of foreign exchange, fiscal, and customs stability, with the formal resolution anticipated in June 2026. The company is also advancing a RIGI application for its Pozuelos-Pastos Grandes (PPG) project, targeting a total capacity of 150,000 tpa LCE.
Key Highlights
- Cauchari-Olaroz Stage 2 expansion received RIGI approval from Argentina's Evaluation Committee.
- Stage 2 targets an additional 45,000 tpa of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) production capacity.
- Cauchari-Olaroz Stage 1 currently operates at 40,000 tpa LCE capacity.
- RIGI provides 30 years of foreign exchange, fiscal, and customs stability for the project.
- RIGI requires a minimum US$200 million investment, with US$80 million deployed in the first two years.
- Formal RIGI resolution for Stage 2 is expected in June 2026.
- A RIGI application was also submitted for the Pozuelos-Pastos Grandes (PPG) project, targeting 150,000 tpa LCE.