Rock Tech Lithium and Arcore Merge Subsidiaries to Form Integrated Lithium Supply Chain
Rock Tech Lithium and Arcore have announced the merger of their subsidiaries to establish a fully integrated European lithium company. The joint venture will oversee Rock Tech's Guben converter in Germany and Arcore's Lopare project in Bosnia-Herzegovina, covering the entire lithium value chain from extraction to battery-ready materials.
The newly formed European entity aims to secure a stable supply of battery materials, create operational synergies, and improve cost efficiency. Rock Tech will hold a 75% stake in the venture, while Arcore will retain 25%. The binding Business Combination Agreement was signed on February 19, 2025, with the transaction expected to close in the second quarter of 2025.
The Lopare project is set to supply lithium sulphate to the Guben converter starting in 2030, aligning with Rock Tech’s recycling efforts to enhance a circular lithium economy. Rock Tech’s CEO, Dirk Harbecke, emphasized the strategic importance of strengthening European supply chains to reduce reliance on imports. Arcore’s leadership also highlighted their commitment to responsible resource development in Bosnia-Herzegovina.
The Guben lithium converter, located in Germany’s Brandenburg battery cluster, is designed to produce lithium hydroxide for up to 500,000 electric vehicles annually. It has received all necessary permits and is in the final financing phase, with Worley Ltd. selected as the EPCM provider.
The Lopare lithium deposit has an estimated 600,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent, with additional concentrations of boron and other minerals. Further exploration and technical studies are planned to optimize resource potential. The joint venture’s first major task will be completing a pre-feasibility study to assess technical, economic, and environmental aspects of the project.
