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.

Jose Luis Manzano has been snapping up mines and lithium-rich acreage in northern Argentina as well as tapping neighboring Brazil’s lithium valley.

At least 100,000 metric tons of copper are en route to the US CME exchange, Reuters sources say.

BHP faces a critical question: what would it take to draw the smaller company to the negotiating table within the next few days? 

Antamina, controlled by Glencore, BHP, Teck and Mitsubishi, is pushing ahead with the $2 billion project to extend the mine's life to 2036.

The company has already requested a suspension of trading in its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange.