Core Viewpoint - Rio Tinto plans to invest over $300 million in expanding its lithium business in Quebec after gaining control of Nemaska Lithium [1] Investment and Ownership Structure - Rio Tinto now holds a 53.9% stake in Nemaska Lithium, while the Quebec government holds 46.1% [2] - Quebec has agreed to invest up to $200 million in Nemaska through equity subscriptions [2] Project Development - Funding will partially support a new lithium hydroxide plant in Bécancour, Quebec, which is projected to have an annual capacity of 32,000 tonnes and was about 60% complete by the end of 2025 [3] - Commissioning activities in Bécancour are planned to start in 2026, with first production expected in 2028 [6] Strategic Importance - Rio Tinto's activities in Quebec are crucial for enhancing its lithium business and supporting the long-term development of Nemaska Lithium [4] - Quebec is highlighted as a key region for lithium development in Canada, hosting nearly half of the country's active lithium projects [4] Historical Context - Nemaska Lithium, founded in 2007, is developing the Whabouchi spodumene mine and the Bécancour plant, having re-emerged as a joint venture after facing financial difficulties in 2019 [5] - Rio Tinto inherited a 50% stake in Nemaska when it acquired Arcadium for approximately $6.7 billion last year [7]