Galan Lithium (ASX: GLN) has completed Phase 1 construction at its flagship Hombre Muerto West (HMW) lithium project in Argentina, marking a key milestone as the company transitions toward first production and cash flow.
The project is now moving into testing and commissioning, with first lithium chloride concentrate targeted in the first half of 2026.
Initial shipments from HMW are expected in the second half of the year.
The milestone positions Galan on the cusp of becoming a lithium producer, supported by a substantial brine inventory of approximately 10,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate equivalent (LCE) ready for processing.
Commissioning Underway as Production Nears
With construction complete, the company has commenced electrical and mechanical testing programs to ensure operational readiness.
Wet commissioning, using both raw and pre-concentrated brine, will follow that.
All major infrastructure has now been installed, including evaporation ponds and a nanofiltration plant, which has been designed to support future production expansion beyond initial capacity.
Initial production is expected to begin at an annualised rate of 4,000 tonnes per annum LCE, with near-term expansion works planned to lift capacity to 5,200tpa.
HMW hosts a total resource of approximately 7,867kt LCE, contributing to Galan’s broader inventory of 9,501kt LCE across its Argentine assets.
Growth Pathway Underpins Long-Term Scale
Beyond Phase 1, Galan holds permits to expand HMW to 21,000tpa LCE under Phase 2, with longer-term plans targeting staged growth to 60,000tpa across four phases.
This phased development strategy is designed to deliver low-risk scale-up while positioning HMW as a significant supplier into the global lithium market.
“The completion of Phase 1 construction at HMW is a defining step in our transition to lithium production, and represents a major milestone for one of the world’s most scalable, low-cost lithium projects,” managing director Juan Pablo Vargas de la Vega said.
“With construction behind us and a substantial brine inventory ready to process, we are focused on a safe and efficient commissioning campaign.”
“Completion of construction strongly reflects the execution of our team and partners […]—Galan is on the cusp of becoming the next ASX-listed lithium producer and delivering first cashflow.”
