TLDR
- Rio Tinto secures majority in Nemaska Lithium, boosting EV supply chains.
- $300M investment strengthens Rio Tinto’s lithium business in Quebec.
- Rio Tinto now controls Nemaska Lithium, advancing sustainable mineral supply.
- Rio Tinto to lead production at Bécancour plant, targeting 2028 startup.
- Strategic move enhances North American lithium supply for electric vehicles.
Rio Tinto Group (RIO.L) shares rose to 7,352.00, reflecting a gain of 3.32% as of 3:16 PM GMT. The increase follows the company securing majority control of Canada’s Nemaska Lithium. The move strengthens Rio Tinto’s position in the global lithium market and supports North American electric vehicle supply chains.
Rio Tinto Group, RIO.L
The Anglo-Australian miner now holds 53.9% of Nemaska Lithium, while the Government of Quebec retains 46.1%. Rio Tinto assumes direct management of Nemaska, overseeing operations, development, and sales. The transaction signals a strategic step to build a fully integrated lithium business in Quebec.
Nemaska Lithium includes the Bécancour lithium hydroxide plant and the Whabouchi spodumene mine in Quebec. The Bécancour plant reached 60% construction completion by the end of 2025. Rio Tinto’s acquisition strengthens control over production and processing of raw lithium materials.
Strategic Expansion of Lithium Business in Quebec
Rio Tinto has invested over $300 million into Nemaska Lithium in 2026 to accelerate development. The Government of Quebec will contribute up to $200 million through equity subscriptions. Both partners continue funding the Bécancour lithium hydroxide project, ensuring long-term operational progress.
The company aims to supply lithium products to North America’s growing electric vehicle market. Integration of mining and processing operations will improve efficiency and reduce supply chain risks. Rio Tinto applies its global standards and expertise to manage Nemaska Lithium directly.
This acquisition follows Rio Tinto’s March 2025 acquisition of Arcadium, which included a 50% stake in Nemaska Lithium. The stake provided access to key lithium infrastructure, including the Whabouchi mine. Majority control now allows Rio Tinto to fully coordinate production, marketing, and future expansion plans.
Long-Term Development and Industry Positioning
The Bécancour plant is expected to start production in 2028, advancing Rio Tinto’s integrated lithium strategy. Engineering for the plant is complete, supporting timely operational execution. Continued investment ensures the company meets projected output and quality targets for lithium products.
Rio Tinto positions Quebec as a central hub for its lithium supply chain. Collaboration with Investissement Quebec demonstrates commitment to developing local resources and industry capabilities. The partnership enhances Canada’s potential role in future green technology supply chains.
The company strengthens its global lithium portfolio while expanding North American production capacity. Operational control over Nemaska Lithium enables streamlined decision-making and improved project oversight. This strategic move underlines Rio Tinto’s focus on growth in sustainable and critical minerals sectors.
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