Published 2026-07-04
Summary: Chilean lithium joint venture NovoAndino (NovAndino) between SQM and Codelco is reported to be expanding output by more than 70% as a long-term bet on growing battery demand, with 2025 production reaching 233,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent, surpassing a near-230,000-ton target.
What We Know
- The NovoAndino/Lithium project is a public-private partnership between SQM and Codelco, with state participation and governance through 2060.
- In 2025, NovoAndino produced 233,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent, exceeding a target of nearly 230,000 tons.
- The partnership is described as a landmark public-private collaboration to develop lithium production in Chile’s Atacama region, aiming to support long-term battery demand.
What’s Still Unclear
- The exact expansion plan details, including capacity targets beyond 2025 and any associated investment schedules, are not specified in the available information.
- Specifics on governance mechanisms, funding sources, and timelines through 2060 beyond the stated governance term are not confirmed.
- Any additional terms of the partnership beyond the 2060 governance horizon have not been disclosed.
Context
Chile’s lithium sector features state-influenced initiatives alongside private operators, reflecting national strategy to secure lithium supply for battery production and related industries. Public-private partnerships in the mining sector are sometimes used to align long-term resource development with policy objectives and market demand.
Why It Matters
Increased lithium output from a major joint venture could influence supply dynamics for the battery materials market, potentially supporting downstream manufacturing and export strategies aligned with growing demand for electric vehicles and energy storage.
What to Watch Next
- Any formal announcements detailing expansion plans, capacity targets, or project milestones for NovoAndino.
- Updates on governance arrangements and state participation terms through 2060.
- Market and policy developments in Chile affecting lithium production and public-private collaboration models.
FAQ
Q: What is the NovoAndino project?
A: It is a lithium joint venture between SQM and Codelco described as a public-private partnership with state participation and governance through 2060.
Q: How much lithium did NovoAndino produce in 2025?
A: 233,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent, exceeding a target of nearly 230,000 tons.
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Source Transparency
- This article is based on a short preliminary brief and may not reflect the full details available in ongoing reporting.
- Source links are provided in the Sources section where available.
- A limited open-web check was used to clarify key details when possible; unclear items remain clearly marked.
Original brief: Chilean mining companies SQM and Codelco are paving the way to boost output at their sprawling lithium partnership by more than 70%, in a long-term bet on battery demand…
Sources
- Lithium output at SQM-Codelco venture edges past forecasts in 2025 …
- Cauchari-Olaroz Lithium Expansion Boosts Jujuy Output
- Lithium Production Beats Forecasts at SQM-Codelco Partnership
- LG Energy Solution and Liontown Resources agree on long-term strategic …
- Rio Tinto Lithium JV: Codelco Maricunga project and Chile outlook