Is Afghanistan the Saudi Arabia of lithium?

The global race for lithium, a crucial component in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, has shifted attention to Afghanistan, hailed as the “ Saudi Arabia of lithium.” As China dominates the EV market, Afghanistan’s vast lithium deposits have become a geopolitical focal point.

Why does Afghanistan need lithium?

Afghanistan sits atop vast lithium reserves and faces a pivotal decision: leverage this mineral wealth to assert national sovereignty and drive local development or risk exploitation by foreign powers eager to dominate the global supply chain for electric vehicles (EV).

Is a lithium-ion battery race taking place in Afghanistan?

While Goldman Sachs predicts a tripling of the lithium market by 2025, a race to secure supplies is taking place in Afghanistan. The lithium-ion battery story begins with chemistry and ends with innovation.

Is Afghanistan a potential epicenter for lithium extraction?

The narrative of Afghanistan as a potential epicenter for lithium extraction introduces a new dimension to the international race for sustainable resources, emphasizing the intricate interplay between geopolitics, energy transition, and the critical role of lithium in shaping the future of transportation.

How important is Afghanistan's lithium & cobalt assets?

Afghanistan's lithium and cobalt assets are critical not only for China but also for another major economy, India. India has spent $3 billion in aid in Afghanistan in the past to earn goodwill. But, it has been at loggerheads with the Taliban, who were fighting against the presence of foreign troops.

Could Afghanistan's lithium deposits rival The LTCS?

Recently, the UK-based newspaper Financial Times reported that Afghanistan’s lithium deposits could rival those of the LTCs. According to Elif Nuroglu, who heads the Economics Department at the Turkish-German University (TAU), like oil, lithium is fast becoming a strategic product.