Chinese Mining Conflicts: Lithium Extraction in Latin America Sparks Riots and Controversy
Salta, Argentina – Residents of northern Argentina have recently been involved in protests against a Chinese mining company extracting lithium. The tensions arose after the firing of Argentine workers, sparking concerns about Chinese businesses and their relationships with host communities. This conflict is just one of many friction points as China expands its involvement in mining operations, particularly in the lithium-rich “lithium triangle” of Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile. Over the past decade, Chinese companies have …