Why is lithium important in Afghanistan?

The lithium found in Afghanistan is a crucial component of large-capacity batteries for electric vehicles and clean-energy storage systems. Copper, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements are also found in Afghanistan, all of which are crucial to the energy transition.

Will lithium demand increase in Afghanistan?

Most researchers agree that lithium demand will only increase. Afghanistan’s estimated reserves put it among global leaders — if the metal can be extracted. With the Taliban capturing Kabul on the August 15, Afghanistan is predicted to soon lose most of its Western investors.

How much are Afghanistan's mineral reserves worth?

Afghanistan’s significant but largely unexploited mineral reserves are valued at an estimated $1-3 trillion. However, that estimate does not consider the extraordinarily high cost of accessing the reserves.