SHANGHAI, March 25 /PRNewswire/ -- In a recent white paper, Shanghai-based SinoLatin Capital spotlights the lithium industry and how the anticipated explosive global demand for this silvery metal will lead to a surge in acquisitions by Chinese firms in Latin America.

The white paper reports that lithium, which is a key ingredient in the majority of consumer electronics, including cell phones, laptops, cameras and PDAs due to its ability to store more energy longer, will become significantly more important from a geo-economic standpoint. As the world's leading economies race to develop better hybrid or all-electric vehicles in an effort to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and combat climate change, countries with significant lithium deposits will become extremely important. China today is at the forefront in its efforts to develop these electric vehicles and will seek to position itself early in securing the necessary raw materials (such as lithium) to further advance the industry.

According to SinoLatin Capital CEO Erik Bethel, who authored the white paper, "From our vantage point in Shanghai, we believe that China will be a global leader in developing and producing electric cars running on lithium-ion batteries. But in order to be competitive, China needs to go outbound to secure enough lithium. And a huge portion of the best lithium is located in Latin America's Lithium Triangle." Mr. Bethel, who leads SinoLatin Capital's metals and mining practice, advises both Chinese firms and Latin American firms on acquisitions and strategic investments.

The white paper provides an in-depth description of South America's "Lithium Triangle" -- Argentina, Bolivia and Chile -- where 70-75% of the world's salt lake lithium deposits are found. Although Chile is the world's largest producer, neighboring Bolivia, which does not currently produce any lithium, purportedly has the world's largest known reserves. In a short time, the Lithium Triangle will have enormous geopolitical significance as the world's major economies continue to shift their focus towards alternative fuels.

Additional whitepapers and further details of 'Is Lithium the 21st Century's Oil?' can be freely downloaded fromhttp://www.sinolatincapital.com/White.asp. Alternatively please contact Erik Bethel at ebethel@sinolatincapital.com, telephone +(8621) 6109-9568.

Located in Shanghai's financial district, SinoLatin Capital is the first merchant bank focused exclusively on cross border transactions between China and Latin America. The Firm has two core businesses: financial advisory and private equity.

SOURCE SinoLatin Capital