Tesla and Syrah Resources have pushed their graphite supply deadline to March 16, marking a third extension. The Australian miner faces accusations of breaching its 2021 agreement to deliver anode materials from its Vidalia, Louisiana facility. Syrah maintains it does not accept being in default, even as the original cure date of January 16 passed.

This ongoing dispute centers on a critical, four-year supply deal that was foundational for Syrah's Louisiana processing plant. As Tesla's first non-Chinese graphite supplier, the agreement was meant to diversify its battery material sourcing away from China, a key strategic goal for the electric vehicle maker.

Syrah's shares fell 3.3% on the news, reflecting investor concern over the prolonged uncertainty. The repeated extensions suggest negotiations are delicate, with both sides seeking to preserve a partnership vital to their respective supply chains. The next deadline looms in mid-March.