Fact Check: Argentina holds the world's third-largest lithium reserves.

Fact Check: "Argentina holds the world's third-largest lithium reserves."

What We Know

The claim that Argentina holds the world's third-largest lithium reserves is inaccurate. According to data from the Lithium Reserves by Country 2025, Argentina actually has the second-largest lithium reserves globally, with approximately 22 million tons. This positions Argentina just behind Bolivia, which has the largest reserves at 23 million tons. The United States ranks third with 14 million tons of lithium reserves, while Chile follows in fourth place with about 11 million tons (Top 4 Largest Lithium Reserves by Country).

The lithium reserves in Argentina are primarily located in the "Lithium Triangle," which encompasses parts of Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile. This region is known for its significant lithium deposits, mainly found in salt flats, including the Salar del Hombre Muerto in Argentina (Lithium Reserves by Country 2025).

Analysis

The assertion that Argentina ranks third in lithium reserves appears to stem from a misunderstanding or miscommunication of the current data. Multiple reliable sources confirm that Argentina is second, not third, in terms of lithium reserves. The Investing News Network and the World Population Review both provide consistent figures that support this conclusion.

Furthermore, the claim may also be influenced by recent reports that inaccurately summarize the rankings. For instance, a recent article from the Buenos Aires Times stated that Argentina has the world's third-largest reserves, but this contradicts the established data from credible sources (Argentina signs agreement with France on critical minerals). This inconsistency highlights the importance of verifying claims against multiple reputable sources.

In evaluating the reliability of the sources, the World Population Review and Investing News Network are both well-regarded for their data accuracy and comprehensive coverage of global resource statistics. In contrast, the Buenos Aires Times, while a legitimate news outlet, may not always provide the same level of detail or specificity regarding resource data.

Conclusion

Verdict: False
The claim that Argentina holds the world's third-largest lithium reserves is false. Argentina actually possesses the second-largest reserves, following Bolivia. This conclusion is supported by multiple credible sources that provide consistent data on global lithium reserves.