Chilean lithium miner SQM is currently engaged in a dispute with its Chinese partner over a deal with Codelco, Chile's state-owned copper mining company.
The conflict arises from SQM's agreement with Codelco to explore for lithium in Chile's Maricunga salt flat. This deal has caused tension between SQM and its Chinese partner, Tianqi Lithium, as Tianqi holds a 24% stake in SQM.