Latin America in the geopolitical minerals game: why copper and lithium matter more than everything else

Latin America holds over 50% of global copper reserves and one-third of lithium resources. Unlike rare earths and other critical minerals, copper and lithium align with the region's structural realities. Rather than replicating China's or the U.S.'s capital-intensive critical minerals strategies, Latin America should focus on reliable, competitive copper and lithium supply-its most durable strategic advantage.