The lithium industry: Its recent evolution and future prospects

During the past decade there has been considerable change in the world lithium industry. This paper discusses this change and reflects on likely future developments. Lithium carbonate producers, based in Northern Chile, now play a dominant role in world production. One focus of the discussion is on the current structure of the industry, particularly at the level of the early stages of production. After considering potential growth in lithium consumption in the foreseeable future, the latter part of the paper considers relevant public policy issues concerning the future regulation of the Chilean industry.