Apple has said in the past that it does not directly buy, procure or source primary minerals, and it has been auditing its suppliers for several years.

The government aims to issue first licenses in 2025, but companies will require separate approvals to start production.

Australia said on Wednesday it would consider Chinese ownership when deciding whether companies qualify for tax credits under a new program of incentives.

The Saudi Arabia project is still a pilot and not yet at commercially viable levels, Ma'aden's CEO said.

Lifthium is planning to source the raw materials from different regions around the world, including South America.

Lithium prices are coming out of a boom-to-bust period that left in its wake an array of stalled projects, scrapped deals and production cuts.

UMPC plans to begin producing battery-grade lithium next year, aiming to deliver 5,000 metric tons in 2027 and double that in 2028.