Lithium South Bolsters its Development Squad for Rapid Progression of HMN Project Feasibility Studies
The Hombre Muerto North (HMN) Lithium Project, owned by Lithium South Development Corporation, is in an accelerated development phase following the appointment of Claudio C. Zalewski as Director of Development & Construction. With over 40 years of lithium project experience, Zalewski is leading efforts to fast-track the project's feasibility study, aiming for completion in Q1 2026.
Key points on the project’s status and timeline include:
- Feasibility Study: Tendering for the feasibility study is expected to begin by the end of Q3 2025, with the full study expected by late Q1 2026.
- Project Expansion and Land: Lithium South has secured a purchase option to expand the HMN project holdings to over 10,000 hectares, payable upon project construction or sale.
- Regulatory Environment: The project benefits from Argentina’s new RIGI regime, which offers 30-year tax stability and incentives for investments exceeding US$200 million, helping to de-risk the investment climate for the HMN project.
- Strategic Partnerships: Lithium South has a 50/50 brine-sharing agreement with POSCO on certain claim blocks, reducing capital intensity and enhancing project value. Discussions with multiple Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM), mining, and financial groups are ongoing for project funding.
- Technology and Infrastructure: The project plans to use advanced direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology backed by Chemphys Chengdu and benefits from nearby gas and water infrastructure, positioning it well in terms of operational efficiency and margin capture.
- Market Outlook: The strong global demand for lithium, particularly for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, underpins the strategic importance of the HMN project. The favorable lithium price environment and Argentina's regulatory support add positive momentum.
In summary, following Claudio Zalewski’s appointment, Lithium South is rapidly advancing the HMN project through feasibility by early 2026, backed by strategic partnerships, regulatory incentives, and technological advantages, positioning the project for next-stage development and potential production.
The CAPEX/OPEX & Financial Models for the Hombre Muerto North Lithium Project are 70% populated, and the Design Criteria has been consolidated into discipline bases of design.
[1] Lithium South Development Corporation press release, 2025. [2] Lithium South Development Corporation press release, 2024. [3] Lithium South Development Corporation press release, 2023. [4] Lithium South Development Corporation press release, 2022.
- The project's financial model is being developed, with 70% of the CAPEX/OPEX already populated, indicating that the renewable-energy industry's finance sector is being active in the HMN Lithium Project.
- The Hombre Muerto North Lithium Project, in pursuit of its next-stage development and potential production, is partnering with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) and financial groups, demonstrating the importance of technology and finance within the renewable-energy industry.
