Key Points – SQM reported strong second-quarter performance, driven by record lithium sales of more than 84,000 metric tons of LCE, higher lithium prices, favorable iodine pricing and increased specialty plant nutrition sales.
The company now expects global lithium demand to exceed 2.1 million metric tons in 2026. – SQM and Codelco submitted documentation for the Salar Futuro project, which could require about $3 billion over seven years to expand production and introduce lower-impact technology
Separately, the Mt Holland expansion in Australia is expected to double SQM’s attributable spodumene concentrate capacity to roughly 350,000 metric tons annually, with first production targeted for the first half of 2030. – The company expects 2026–2028 capital spending of approximately $3 billion, focused mainly on growth and cost competitiveness. Iodine demand remains favorable, while specialty plant nutrition sales volumes are projected to rise about 10% from 2025. – Gold and Silver Rebound, But This Metal Is Outperforming Both Sociedad Quimica y Minera (NYSE:SQM) said its second-quarter performance was supported by strong results across its principal businesses, including record lithium sales volumes, favorable iodine pricing and increased specialty plant nutrition sales. Chief Executive Officer Ricardo Ramos said the company sold more than 84,000 metric tons of lithium carbonate equivalent, or LCE, during the quarter from its Chilean operations through Novandino Litio and its Australian operations through Covalent Lithium.
Lithium prices increased during the second quarter as demand proved stronger than expected, he said. – This ETF Is Up 146% as the Battle Over Rare Earths Heats Up SQM now expects global lithium demand to exceed 2.1 million metric tons in 2026. Company executives attributed additional expected supply this year primarily to increased production in China from spodumene and brine, ramp-ups in Africa and Argentina, and some Australian production restarts…