Japan will be sharing its lithium expertise with Bolivia. The Andean country will be helped in conducting research which will lead to industrialisation of its lithium wealth as per the state-run Bolivian Mining Corporation.
The state run Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation signed a memorandum of understanding with the Bolivian Mining Corporation to coordinate the research with the Mitsubishi and Sumitomo Corporations, the University of Kita-Kiusyu, the National Institute of Science and Advanced Industrial Technology, and the University of Kyoto.
Bolivia’s deposits of lithium are found in Uyuni near the border with Chile. 70% of the world’s known reserves of lithium are located in Bolivia. These are the largest salt flats in the world and are located 12,000 feet above sea level. Japan is going to help the research into the development of these lithium deposits.
It will provide the technology needed to produce the lithium carbonate which is vital for producing lithium ion batteries. These rechargeable batteries are used for laptops, mobile phones and electric cars. All industries which drive the economic growth of Japan.