Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (Chile)

Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile S.A. (SQM) is a leading global mining company engaged in the production and commercialization of specialty plant nutrients, iodine and its derivatives, lithium and its derivatives, potassium chloride, potassium sulfate, and various industrial chemicals. These products are essential for diverse industries, including agriculture, healthcare, technology, and energy. SQM was founded in 1968 as a joint venture between private investors and the Chilean government. Initially, it focused on restructuring the declining nitrate industry. In 1971, the company was nationalized, becoming fully state-owned. During the 1980s, SQM was privatized and expanded its operations significantly. The company began producing lithium carbonate in 1997 and has since become a global leader in lithium production. Over the years, SQM has diversified its product portfolio and expanded internationally through acquisitions and joint ventures. SQM is a publicly traded company with shares listed on the Santiago Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange. Its major shareholders include the Chilean government and various institutional and private investors.