"Chile launches call to boost lithium production and attract new operators", 15 October 2021

...In order to meet the increase in global demand for lithium and the growth that is projected in the future, within the framework of the fight against climate change, the Ministry of Mining announced a national and international public call for the subscription of special operating contracts that develop the exploration and production of lithium deposits in the country...

In Chile in 1979, lithium was declared of national interest and became non-concessional. Since then, only the State of Chile can manage lithium production...

The awards will be for a period of seven years – extendable for another two years – to carry out the geological exploration, studies and development of the project, to which another 20 years of production will be added. The fees will be associated with a marketing authorisation from the Chilean Nuclear Energy Commission (CCCHEN).

With this, the state seeks to facilitate the entry of national and/or foreign companies, promoting production and supporting the development of new technologies that enable the energy transition and the fight against global warming, generating in turn benefits for the state....