Proven once SQM unable to increase production, they will be proven again as the greenies launch their attack re water/environmental issues. Oh when fast extraction of SDV goes online, poof goes SQM's market share, they are desperately piling on the negative sentiment as they shake in their boots desperately trying to replace POSCO and Samsung as they pull out of Chile. Try to use their sheet profit guidance to scare the market.....too bad they sell on spot prices not contract.
"SQM and its competitor Albermarle had to reduce the pumping of brine in the east of Salar for several reasons, and Hooper now believes that both companies will not be able to meet their self-imposed production line due to problems ranging from environmental regulations to the political situation. For 2025, Hooper expects a total output of both companies of about 160 kilotons per year, well below the forecast of 400 kilotons.
However, this strategic agreement between SQM and Corfo could now result in “SQM reinforcing the excess supply thesis with its temporary negative market trends so that there is enough time to start production before competitors and juniors have the opportunity to do so at lower total cost of ownership”. At a trade price of $20,000 per ton of lithium carbonate and operating costs of $8,000 per ton, very soon, SQM would no longer be one of the world’s largest lithium producers, while competitors calculate between $3,000 and $5,000 per ton."
