What has been Bizalab’s main focus recently?

We have adapted our strategies, expanding our training sessions' focus for internal and external clients with increased frequency and duration. Additionally, we are launching a new complementary business scheme focused on mineralogy, with a dedicated website providing detailed information about minerals and their properties. It offers free content accessible to all and deeper information through a paid gateway for those interested in additional details.

In line with our commitment to sharing knowledge and strengthening institutional relationships, we have established collaborations with entities such as the Andrés del Castillo Mineral Museum and the Geological Society of Perú. The goal is to improve mineralogical knowledge in the country through talks and courses. We are also closing an agreement with the Institute for Geology, Mining, and Metallurgy (INGEMMET).

What opportunities do you observe in the lithium market in Peru?

Historically, and due to the lack of legislation, lithium mining has been disregarded in Peru due to its association with rare earth and radioactive minerals. The main presence of lithium in Peru differs from other countries in the region, since it is hosted in micas such as zinnwaldite and lepidolite, and also in clay minerals (smectites), and zeolite. This will require the use of advanced technologies and extraction processes.

At Bizalab, we have been analyzing lithium samples for a junior company whose information and evidence are completely different in terms of geology and mineralogy. The study of lithium requires different approaches and concepts, leading our team to develop new skills and knowledge in this area. However, the accuracy of our estimates will depend mainly on further research and the results of more detailed drilling. As these works progress, we will be able to determine more accurately the potential and actual quantities of resources available, allowing us to position ourselves strategically in this emerging lithium market.

Can you explain the importance of predictive mineralogy?

By integrating mineralogy into the project's initial concept, surprises are avoided, and extraction and processing processes are optimized. This ensures that the available resources are maximized and costs associated with unforeseen problems are minimized.

Mining companies often face challenges in mineral recovery due to a lack of adequate mineralogical information. This can result in the need to solve complex problems during operation, leading to additional costs and project delays. That is why it is essential to incorporate mineralogy as an integral part of the information necessary for the development and execution of mining projects.

What type of samples can be analyzed at Bizalab?

We can evaluate any sample, regardless of its origin or stage in the mining process, from rocks and sediments to concentrates, tailings, and intermediate products. Apart from samples associated with mining operations, we also evaluate samples of soils, sediments, and areas adjacent to mining units as services offered to our Environmental Assessment and Oversight Organism (OEFA) to ensure environmental compliance and mine closure requirements. Our teamwork approach enables us to provide accurate and detailed analysis of mineral samples, contributing to the understanding and optimizing mining processes.

What are your plans for international expansion?

In the current political context, we have had to focus on internal development and expand our presence in the international market. The uncertainty in some countries in the region is prompting us to conduct preliminary assessments and consider other markets such as the United States, Canada, or Australia. Our new mineral website will initially be in Spanish, but we intend to translate it into other languages as we enter other countries.

We believe we are competitive globally due to our cutting-edge equipment and highly trained personnel; we ensure the quality of our products and services. Our response times are also faster than those of many of our larger competitors; while sample analysis can take around three months in other countries, it takes 15-20 days for us. Although we are smaller than a multinational company, our mineralogy specialization gives us a distinctive advantage in the market.

Do you have a final message?

We are a 100% Peruvian company with a more than eight-year track record and with solid technical and human resources. We want to leverage our capabilities and strengths to expand internationally.