China expands Sichuan lithium resource base by 70%, boosting EV battery supply

China announced a ~70% expansion of the resource base at the Jiada Lithium Mine in Sichuan, adding ~1.05 million tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent, bringing total resources to 2.53 million tonnes. This strengthens China's long-term domestic lithium supply for EV and energy storage batteries, reducing reliance on imports. The move is part of Beijing's broader strategy to secure critical mineral supply chains.