China’s leading lithium producer, Ganfeng Lithium, has launched the first phase of its Goulamina lithium mine in Mali's Bougouni region

 

 

China’s leading lithium producer, Ganfeng Lithium, has launched the first phase of its Goulamina lithium mine in Mali's Bougouni region, with plans to produce 506,000 tons of lithium annually, doubling production in the second phase. 

 

Despite challenges like security issues, a new mining code, and an oversupplied market, the project moves forward. Ganfeng secured a $342.7 million deal in May to increase its stake in the project, and the Mali government plans to acquire a 35% stake, leaving Ganfeng with 65%.

The Goulamina mine, one of the world’s largest untapped hard rock lithium reserves, is expected to operate for over 23 years, strengthening Ganfeng's lithium supply chain amid falling prices. Additionally, Chinese researchers are working on new methods to extract lithium from low-quality brines, such as seawater, to meet the growing demand. 

 

Techniques like solvent extraction, direct extraction, and filtration membranes are being explored to improve sustainability and efficiency in lithium production.