Santiago-based SQM’s joint venture lithium project in Australia (GM Dec. 22, 2017), Mount Holland Lithium Project, has hit a snag. A West Australian Warden’s Court has recommended to Western Australia’s Mines Minister Bill Johnston that he reject the jv’s exemption from minimum expenditure obligations over tenements associated with the project.
Reportedly, the expenditure lapse occurred prior to jv partners Kidman Resources acquiring the tenements in July 2016. Having spent some $55 million on the project to date, Kidman and SQM argue that the minister should allow the exemption.