SQM is one of just a handful of established lithium miners globally and a Chinese investment would go hand in glove with an electric car boom in the world's biggest auto market. Chinese private equity firm GSR Capital is expected to purchase shares of around 20 % , worth roughly $ 1.9bn , in one of the world 's largest lithium producers , Chile 's Sociedad Quimica y Minera , sources have said . This move is in line with the Chilean government 's vigorous promotion of electric vehicles in a bid to combat air pollution and compete with cars in the fast - growing market .
Chinese private equity firm GSR Capital is expected to purchase shares of around 20 % , worth roughly $ 1.9bn , in one of the world 's largest lithium producers , Chile 's Sociedad Quimica y Minera , sources have said . This move is in line with the Chilean government 's vigorous promotion of electric vehicles in a bid to combat air pollution and compete with cars in the fast - growing market .