Why does Afghanistan need lithium?

Afghanistan sits atop vast lithium reserves and faces a pivotal decision: leverage this mineral wealth to assert national sovereignty and drive local development or risk exploitation by foreign powers eager to dominate the global supply chain for electric vehicles (EV).

Are there lithium mines in Afghanistan?

The claims of lithium mines was based on a 2007 US Geological Survey report. It revealed thatAfghanistan has the world’s largest reserves of lithium, as well as huge deposits of iron, gold, cobalt, copper and other valuable minerals.

Does Afghanistan need a lithium monopoly?

Afghanistan must limit dependence on investments driven mainly by external strategic interests. Maintaining control over its lithium reserves is equally critical, necessitating a robust national framework for extraction and processing.

How can Afghanistan benefit from its mineral wealth?

To truly benefit from its mineral wealth, Afghanistan must improve its governance and human rights. The country is plagued by corruption, lack of transparency, and weak rule of law and these are considered barriers to sustainable development.

Does China have a monopoly over Afghanistan's mineral resources?

Speculation of China’s dominance over Afghanistan’s mineral resources, following the U.S. withdrawal in 2021, and India’s competing interest in lithium for electric vehicle production as part of its Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) achievements by 2030, further complicate this issue.

How can Afghanistan achieve sustainable growth?

Currently, he is an Albrecht Fellow at the World Trade Center Institute and holds an MBA in finance from I.K. Gujral University in India. For sustainable growth, Afghanistan must maintain control over its resources while seeking investments that promote local development.