Chinese Premier Li focused on critical minerals during his visit to Australia, concluding with a stop at Tianqi Lithium Energy Australia, a majority Chinese-owned venture managing a lithium mine and refinery.

Australia, the world's largest lithium extractor, exports most ore to China for refining, crucial for its electric vehicle sector.

Li toured a lithium refiner in Perth, highlighting China's significant interest in Australian minerals essential for clean energy technologies.

His visit highlights sensitivities around Chinese involvement in Australia's critical mineral industry, prompting strategic efforts to diversify supply chains and manage national security concerns.

(Source: ET Energy)