German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock recently expressed Germany’s interest in diversifying its lithium supply chain, aiming to lessen dependence on Chinese imports. Baerbock highlighted Australia as a potential key supplier, emphasizing the benefits of direct lithium imports from Australia to strengthen ties between democracies and free markets.
Australia’s Federal Resources Minister Madeleine King has advocated for Australia to become a major player in the international critical minerals sector. King emphasized the importance of ethical and sustainable sourcing, positioning Australia as a reliable supplier free from undue interference.
The Federal Government’s ‘Resources and Energy Quarterly’ (REQ) for March 2024 projects a significant increase in Australia’s lithium mine production, driven by the growing demand for electric vehicles (EVs). With Europe leading the EV market, Germany’s move to diversify its supply chain with Australian lithium sets the stage for a promising future for the commodity.