Chile has revealed a plan to double its lithium production over the next decade through a public-private model by opening up salt flats for lithium mining. Named Salar de Atacama and Maricunga, these flats have been designated of strategic importance, giving control of future contracts to the state. State-owned firms will have flexibility to negotiate terms with private partners in other areas, while contracts for 26 other regions will be up for tender. This move is expected to shape the future of lithium mining in Chile.