Río Tinto Dominates Lithium Mining in Argentina Amid Controversial Lobbying Practices
Río Tinto has emerged as Argentina's leading lithium miner, leveraging political connections to influence legislation and acquire assets. The company's actions raise concerns over the future of water resources amidst a looming global freshwater crisis.

Río Tinto has become the foremost lithium mining company in Argentina, spurred by favorable policies including the Régimen de Incentivo para Grandes Inversiones (RIGI). The firm, with investments totaling approximately $3.23 billion in the Rincón and Fénix projects, has also sought to privatize railway assets.
Recent reforms to the Glacier Law have raised alarms regarding environmental impacts and resource management. Meetings between company representatives and government officials, including four with President Javier Milei, highlight potential conflicts of interest, with individuals like Shunko Rojas serving dual roles. This situation poses significant risks to water resources in a time of increasing scarcity.




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