Eramet Eyes $350M Expansion of Argentina Lithium Plant Under RIGI Incentives
Event summary
- Eramet plans to invest $350M to expand Centenario-Ratones lithium plant by 11 kt-LCE/year, pending final approval.
- Project aims to leverage Argentina’s RIGI tax and regulatory incentives for 30-year stability.
- Centenario-Ratones reached 90% of 24 kt-LCE capacity in June 2026, targeting full production by year-end.
- Expansion would position the plant in the global lithium industry’s first-cost quartile.
The big picture
Eramet’s expansion plans underscore Argentina’s growing appeal as a lithium hub, bolstered by RIGI’s long-term incentives. The move comes as global demand for lithium intensifies, with Europe seeking to reduce reliance on Asian suppliers. Centenario-Ratones’ successful ramp-up positions Eramet as a key European player in the critical minerals space, though regulatory and operational hurdles remain.
What we're watching
- Regulatory Alignment
- Whether Argentina’s RIGI framework can deliver sufficient incentives to offset execution risks for Eramet’s expansion.
- Cost Competitiveness
- The pace at which Centenario-Ratones can maintain its position in the global lithium cost curve amid rising competition.
- Industry Scaling
- How Eramet’s expansion will impact Argentina’s role in the global lithium supply chain, particularly as a non-Chinese DLE producer.
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