With proper mining and refining operations, the sites could produce raw material to make lithium-ion batteries for at least one million units of 50 kWh electric vehicles. Ms Radklao said on Jan 18 that the finding of high lithium content in Phang Nga makes Thailand the country with the third-largest lithium resources after Bolivia and Argentina.
Both minerals are crucial for producing 100% EV batteries, reinforcing Thailand’s readiness to advance towards becoming a central and primary production base for EV batteries in the region. Previously, India had made headlines for discovering lithium and emerging as a key player in the battery and EV industry.
According to the Department of Primary Industries and Mines, Thailand has discovered lithium resources exceeding 14.8 million tonnes, ranking the country third globally in lithium reserves, after Bolivia and Argentina. This discovery of potential lithium-sodium deposits is both good news and beneficial for Thailand’s electric automotive industry.
So far, 38 battery production projects, including for EVs and other uses, totalling an investment of 23.6 billion baht ($659.40 million), have received support from the Thailand Board of Investment, its secretary general Narit Therdsteerasukdi said.
“The discovery of 14.8 million tonnes of mineral resources is still a good news for all Thais, regardless of the amount of lithium found,” said Ms Radklao. “All key mineral resources found in Thailand, be they lithium, sodium or potash, can contribute to the country’s economic stability and reduce reliance on import.”
Focused on the import, assembly and distribution of battery modules and battery packs for energy storage systems and EVs, the plant will deliver high-quality lithium ion batteries with an initial production capacity of 2 gigawatt-hours per year.