"If we're honest ... the lithium produced in Canada is going to be more expensive, because we don't use slave labour," he said as as he discussed Canada's efforts to ramp up production of the critical metal

The world's second largest copper producer, Peru has a lithium exploration project in the region of Puno, on the border with Bolivia.

Miner will consider moving into the production of manganese sulphate in the US.

Yulo-Loyzaga signaled that a ban on unprocessed exports is unlikely.

Across the world, nationalizing oil industries in particular has proved attractive as a means of cashing in on valuable raw materials and boosting development.

The development follows the completion of a definitive feasibility study of Vidalia Further Expansion project.

Nobian will contribute 161 million euros in cash as equity to fund capital expenses.