YLB and Río Grande Community Reach Agreement on Lithium Production and Water Use

After extensive negotiations, the Empresa Pública Nacional Estratégica de Yacimientos de Litio Bolivianos (YLB) and the community of Río Grande in Potosí have reached an agreement aimed at addressing community demands and fostering cooperation in lithium production and environmental management. The agreement came after 20 hours of dialogue and was formalized in a meeting led by Raúl Mayta, Vice-Minister of Exploration and Exploitation of Water Resources.

This collaborative agreement sets forth mutual commitments between YLB and the Río Grande community, focusing on the sustainable development of the lithium production chain and the responsible use of water resources. Key aspects of the agreement include the community's participation in the lithium industry's development and a commitment to maintaining constructive relations with YLB. Additionally, both parties have agreed to the rational use of water resources for the industrialization of evaporite resources, including regular water quality analysis in coordination with the community’s Water Committee.

The agreement also encompasses joint efforts in watershed management studies to explore alternative water sources, the installation of water troughs for domestic livestock and wildlife, and environmental monitoring training for community members.

The resolution of this dialogue effectively ends the mobilizations and pressure actions initiated on April 4, when Río Grande residents took control of water wells supplying YLB's Industrial Complex. The protests had extended to blocking the railroad line to Oruro, disrupting mineral exports and impacting the operations of the San Cristóbal mining company.

Vice Minister Mayta expressed optimism about the agreement, viewing it as the start of continuous dialogue between the community and YLB, and a step towards fulfilling the government’s promise to resolve conflicts through conversation. This accord is seen as a foundational step towards ensuring the sustainable industrialization of lithium resources in the region, balancing economic development with environmental stewardship and community interests.