Chile’s energy transition is reshaping its mining sector, renewable energy mix, and climate strategy, with lithium and copper production at the centre of global supply chains. Policy reforms, infrastructure expansion and green technologies are positioning the country as a leader in sustainable energy development.

Steel prices in the US would be weaker if not artificially propped up by trade tariff pressures as underlying demand is depressed, several market participants told Fastmarkets on Friday August 8.

What factors are driving the significant downturn in US housing starts, accompanied by a decrease in building permits?

California-based lithium-sulfur battery-maker start-up Lyten has entered a binding agreement to acquire the remaining Swedish and German assets of failed Swedish battery-maker Northvolt, the US company said late on Thursday August 7.

Rare earth permanent magnet producers outside China are securing critical materials through key deals and partnerships. These efforts aim to strengthen the global supply chain amid China’s export controls and rising demand for NdFeB magnets.

Spodumene production in Australia and Canada rose in the second quarter of 2025, with most producers maintaining profitability despite falling prices. However, several high-cost operations remain inactive amid ongoing market uncertainty.

Electra Battery Materials Corp announced on Thursday July 31 that it is starting metallurgical testing on cobalt feedstocks at its historic Cobalt Camp in Ontario and at its Iron Creek, Idaho cobalt and copper project to expand North American supply of critical minerals contained in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs).

Westwin Elements, America’s first nickel refinery, has secured $1.4 billion in long-term deals with Traxys, boosting the domestic critical minerals supply chain and reducing import reliance.

The Mexican aluminium market is experiencing low spot activity and pricing pressure amid ongoing tariff uncertainty and heavy reliance on US trade. Market participants are watching closely for potential trade deals that could reshape the current landscape.

Key takeaways: US 50% tariffs on Brazil exclude pulp, other major exporting sectors US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order implementing an additional 40% tariff on Brazil, raising the total tariff to 50%, the White House said in a statement published on Wednesday July 30. The new tariffs will take effect in seven […]