Ukraine is making significant strides in developing its own critical minerals industry, focusing on the extraction and processing of lithium. As reported by Deputy Minister of Economy Yegor Perelygin, the application period for participation in the country’s first lithium Production Sharing Agreement at the “Dobro” site ends on December 12. This decision opens new opportunities for attracting investors and forming a modern industry.
This is reported by Business • Media
Global Demand and Ukraine’s Role
Over the past five years, lithium has transformed from a material for niche industries into a key component of energy infrastructure. It is expected that by 2040, global demand for this metal will exceed 928,000 tons, compared to 205,000 tons in 2024. The growing popularity of electric vehicles and the development of energy storage systems ensure stable long-term demand for lithium.
Currently, about 66% of global lithium processing capacity and over 70% of battery production is controlled by China. However, the market situation is changing — global companies are seeking to diversify their supply sources, providing Ukraine with additional opportunities.
“According to Deputy Minister of Economy of Ukraine Yegor Perelygin, the application period for the first lithium Production Sharing Agreement in Ukraine’s history at the ‘Dobro’ site ends on December 12. This is an important step in forming the country’s own critical minerals industry.”
Investment Prospects and International Cooperation
Ukrainian projects in the field of lithium extraction and processing may receive funding through the U.S.-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund. The combination of a rich resource base, modern technologies, investments, and operational management decisions will allow Ukraine to strengthen its position in the global lithium market. This could become one of the most successful examples of the country entering a strategically important segment of the global economy.