Rio Tinto has begun operating two new direct‑lithium‑extraction plants in Argentina’s Catamarca province. The facilities add a combined capacity of 25,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate per year. The project represents a US$1.4 billion investment in the region. Most of the regional spending is being allocated to local contractors and service providers. The new processing hub is part of Rio Tinto’s strategy to secure a stable supply of lithium for the global battery market. Construction and commissioning of the plants are expected to boost employment in the area.