Chile's Codelco Launches Lithium Call

Nearly a year after the original announcement, Chilean state copper producer Codelco said on Friday it has begun the process of seeking a partner to develop its lithium assets.

Codelco said in a statement it is calling for expressions of interest from either individual companies or consortiums to develop the lithium assets it has in the Maricunga and Pedernales salt flats, both in northern Atacama region (III).

The company said the process will be handled by financial advisor South Andes Capital, and will run until February 3. Codelco will then pre-select candidates, the statement said.

In order to pre-select the expressions of interest, the previous experience of the applicants in the lithium industry and / or their relevant capacities to carry out this type of projects will be assessed.