Highlights
Pursuit Minerals commissioned a lithium carbonate plant at its Argentina-based Rio Grande Sur project
Liontown Resources reached commercial production at its Kathleen Valley lithium asset
Smaller ASX players maintained exploration activity amid lower lithium pricing
The S&P/ASX 200 Resources Index (ASX:XJR) and S&P/ASX All Ordinaries Index (ASX:XAO) tracked downward sentiment in the broader lithium segment, yet several lithium-focused companies on the ASX continued operational progress during the recent quarter. While lithium prices have softened, multiple players in the sector reported developments across exploration, production, and commissioning milestones.
Pursuit Minerals Advances Modular Development Strategy
Pursuit Minerals (ASX:PUR) reported progress at its Rio Grande Sur project in Salta, Argentina, where it has completed the commissioning of a pilot lithium carbonate plant. This modular and phased development approach is designed to support efficient process validation and capital management. PUR continues to align its capacity expansions with broader market dynamics.
Green Technology Metals Progresses Canadian Exploration
Green Technology Metals (ASX:GT1) remains focused on its lithium portfolio in Ontario, Canada. The company reported sustained exploration activity across multiple targets in the region. GT1 has adopted a systematic approach to identifying high-priority drill zones, with data-supported geological assessments continuing through the March quarter.
Cosmos Exploration Maintains Lithium Prospects in Western Australia
Cosmos Exploration (ASX:C1X) continued to advance work across its lithium tenements in Western Australia. Field mapping, sampling, and early-stage geophysical reviews were conducted to refine targets. C1X maintained its position within emerging lithium corridors in the region, focusing on geological structures associated with pegmatite formations.
First Lithium Prioritises Project Portfolio Optimisation
First Lithium (ASX:FL1) took steps to streamline its asset portfolio during the quarter, concentrating efforts on its most advanced projects. The company reported progress on refining its resource targets and optimising project-level exploration spending. Work remained active across tenements in both Australia and overseas jurisdictions.
Liontown Resources Begins Commercial Operations at Flagship Site
Liontown Resources (ASX:LTR) declared commercial production at its flagship Kathleen Valley project during the quarter. Operational activity included the production and shipment of spodumene concentrate, with revenue and operational cash flow reported. LTR highlighted improvements in cost efficiency and shipment volumes since the start of operations.
Pilbara Minerals Adjusts Output Amid Market Pressures
Pilbara Minerals (ASX:PLS) recorded a decline in production and revenue during the recent quarter, reflecting broader price trends in the lithium sector. The company continued to deliver spodumene concentrate to offtake partners, with operational activities focused on maintaining output quality and managing production costs.
Exploration Activity Signals Long-Term Sector Commitment
Across the smaller end of the market, several companies demonstrated ongoing commitment to lithium development. These activities reflect a focus on long-term project viability and technical advancement rather than immediate commercial returns.