Globenewswire·2025-08-12 11:01Core Viewpoint - Lithium Argentina AG has executed a framework agreement with Ganfeng Lithium Group to establish a new joint venture that consolidates their lithium projects, enhancing operational scale and financial flexibility [1][3]. Project Details - The new joint venture combines Ganfeng's Pozuelos-Pastos Grandes project with Lithium Argentina's Pastos Grandes (85% owned) and Sal de la Puna (65% owned) projects, resulting in Ganfeng holding 67% and Lithium Argentina 33% of the joint venture [1]. - Since acquiring the Pastos Grandes project in 2022 and Sal de la Puna in 2023, Lithium Argentina has made significant advancements, including hydrogeological modeling and environmental studies [4]. - Ganfeng acquired the Pozuelos-Pastos Grandes project for $1.0 billion and has invested an additional $200 million for development [4][5]. Production Capacity and Feasibility Study - The development plan targets a phased production capacity of up to 150,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) in three phases of 50,000 tpa each [6]. - A feasibility study is underway to evaluate lithium carbonate and lithium chloride production, with results expected by the end of 2025 [6]. Financing and Debt Facility - Both companies are pursuing financing options for further development, including potential offtake agreements and project financing [7]. - Ganfeng will provide Lithium Argentina with a $130 million, six-year debt facility at SOFR plus 2.5%, enhancing financial flexibility [9][10]. Joint Venture Structure and Future Steps - The joint venture will be structured on the existing partnership model used for the Cauchari-Olaroz project, leveraging local expertise [8]. - Immediate steps include settling definitive agreements and completing a development plan, with the joint venture expected to close by Q1 2026 [11]. Company Overview - Lithium Argentina is an emerging producer of lithium carbonate primarily for lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles, operating in partnership with Ganfeng [12].