I can't accept that. How do the following compare to extracted...

I can't accept that. How do the following compare to extracted spodumene? Let's take a look.

• Gold: AISC for gold mining typically ranges from $900–$1,300 per ounce, with some lower-cost operations achieving figures below $800 per ounce.
• Graphite: Costs depend on whether it's natural or synthetic. Natural graphite AISC can range from $500–$1,500 per tonne, depending on purity and processing.
• Iron Ore: AISC varies significantly depending on the grade and location. Major producers like Rio Tinto and BHP have reported costs in the range of $15–$25 per tonne for high-grade iron ore.
• 
  

So Alevra can do the same at Hard Rock Lithium (spodumene): $3,500–$5,500 per tonne. Brine-based lithium: $2,500–$4,500 per tonne.
If that's the case, we should look into what Core Lithium, who are posting extraction figures of $441 US per tonne, at their Finniss project. Why can they achieve these numbers and not us?

In any case, it appears that Australian markets are resisting Chinese attempts to lower prices even further.

"

Prices for spodumene have continued to rise as Australian miners resist downward pressure and new Chinese converters seek feedstock. Benchmark’s Spodumene FOB Australia; 6% price hit a three-year low of $740 per tonne on 30 October 2024. As of 22 January 2025, it stands at $870 per tonne, a 17.6% rise. Spodumene concentrate prices rose […]"

source: benchmarkminerals.com