Mining & Critical Minerals in Argentina
Argentina holds the world's 3rd largest lithium reserves, significant copper deposits, and untapped gold and silver resources — making it a strategic destination for critical minerals investment.
Sector Overview
Argentina is experiencing a mining renaissance driven by global demand for critical minerals essential to the energy transition. The country holds the world's 3rd largest lithium reserves, primarily in the lithium triangle region where Argentina, Chile, and Bolivia converge. Australian, Canadian, and Chinese companies are actively developing lithium brine projects in Jujuy, Salta, and Catamarca provinces. Beyond lithium, Argentina has significant copper deposits (similar geology to Chile), gold and silver mines, and emerging rare earth element discoveries. The Milei government has signaled strong support for mining investment, with RIGI incentives applying to large-scale mining projects. While environmental concerns exist, particularly around water usage in lithium extraction, Argentina's mining-friendly provinces offer established regulatory frameworks and growing infrastructure.
Key Investment Opportunities
Top Regions for Investment
Cauchari-Olaroz lithium project, expanding production
Explore provinceCentenario-Ratones lithium, copper exploration
Explore provinceVeladero gold, Los Azules copper, established mining province
Explore provinceFiambalá lithium, Tres Quebradas project
Explore provinceCerro Negro gold, Cerro Moro silver-gold
Explore province- Mining concessions granted by provincial governments
- Federal mining investment law provides 30-year stability
- Environmental impact assessments required for all projects
- Community consultation increasingly important in indigenous areas
- Water rights critical for lithium extraction projects
- Export duties apply to processed minerals, not raw concentrates
- RIGI: 25% corporate tax rate for 30 years on large projects
- Accelerated depreciation for mining equipment
- VAT refunds on capital goods imports
- Provincial royalty rates competitive with regional peers (1-3%)
Recent Developments
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Argentina important for lithium?
Argentina holds the world's 3rd largest lithium reserves, with high-quality brine deposits in the Puna region. Unlike hard rock mining, lithium brine extraction can be lower cost and more environmentally manageable. Argentina's lithium triangle (with Chile and Bolivia) contains 60%+ of global lithium resources.
What is the environmental impact of mining in Argentina?
Environmental concerns focus on water usage in lithium extraction (brine requires evaporation ponds) and potential groundwater impacts. The government requires environmental impact studies, and major projects face scrutiny from local communities. Some operations now use direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology to reduce water consumption.
How does RIGI apply to mining investments?
Mining projects investing $200+ million can qualify for RIGI benefits: 25% corporate tax rate (vs. 35%), tax stability for 30 years, accelerated depreciation, and streamlined customs procedures. This makes Argentina increasingly competitive with Chile and Peru.
Can small investors participate in mining?
Direct mine investment requires substantial capital. Small investors can consider: (1) Publicly traded mining companies with Argentine assets, (2) Mining-focused private equity funds, (3) Service companies supplying the mining sector, (4) Exploration junior stocks on Canadian/Australian exchanges.
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Considering Investment in Mining?
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Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Argentina's economic and political environment involves significant risks. Consult qualified legal, tax, and financial professionals before making investment decisions. Investment values can fluctuate, and past performance does not guarantee future results.
Legal services provided by Lucero Legal. This content is produced independently by Expats Argentina.