Imerys freezes UK lithium project to focus on France

Core Viewpoint - Imerys has decided to freeze its lithium production project in the UK to concentrate on a more advanced lithium venture in France, indicating a strategic shift in its operational focus [1]. Company Summary - The UK lithium project in Cornwall aimed to produce over 20,000 metric tons annually of lithium carbonate, potentially meeting the lithium demand for around 500,000 electric vehicles [1]. - The project is now placed on care and maintenance, with active development suspended due to the challenges of managing two large-scale projects simultaneously in different countries [1]. - Imerys has received a commitment from the French state to invest 50 million euros (approximately $59 million) for a minority stake in the Emili project in central France, which targets an output of 34,000 tons of lithium hydroxide per year starting in 2030 [1]. - The CEO of Imerys, Alessandro Dazza, acknowledged the strategic value of the UK project, despite the decision to pause its development, following the completion of a scoping study [1].