Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Mining Affairs, Eng. Khalid bin Saleh Al-Mudaifer, visited the “Salar de Atacama” lithium mine operated by SQM in Chile.

During his visit to the mine located in the Atacama Desert in northern Chile, Al-Mudaifer observed the advanced mining operations, with the mine’s production capacity reaching 210,000 tons annually, representing 22% of global lithium production. He also viewed the modern technologies used in various mining stages, research and development activities, and the mine’s plans for expansion.

Al-Mudaifer met with JoaquínVillarino, CEO of the Chilean Mining Council, and discussed Saudi Arabia’s efforts to develop its mining sector, highlighting the unique opportunities offered by the comprehensive mining strategyas well as the incentives provided to investors.

They also discussed the importance of strategic partnerships to meet global mining targets, such as energy transition and resource provision, and improving sector efficiency through modern technologies. Al-Mudaifer invited Villarino to participate in the International Mining Conference organized by Saudi Arabia in January, a global initiative by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources to enhance and sustain the mining sector.

Additionally, he met with the Vice President of External Affairs and Sustainability at Molymet, discussing unique investment opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s mining sector and showcasing the company’s capabilities in molybdenum production and copper mine recycling technologies.