Rio2 Provides Fenix Gold Mine Construction Update

Core Viewpoint - Rio2 Limited is advancing construction activities at the Fenix Gold Mine in Chile, with significant milestones achieved and a focus on first gold production expected in January 2026 [1][3][15]. Overview - Pre-construction activities began in 2022, and the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) was approved in December 2023 after an 18-month appeal [2]. - Construction activities resumed in October 2024 following successful financing efforts [3]. Financials - The projected construction capital expenditure (capex) for 2025 is estimated at USD 122 million, excluding refundable Chilean VAT [3]. - The total investment in the Fenix Gold Project is approximately USD 235 million, covering initial and sustaining capital [17]. Construction Progress - Bulk earthworks at the plant site are completed, and concrete bases for the processing plant have been poured [4]. - Earthworks for the leach pad stability platform have commenced, designed to be built in four phases over the mine's 17-year life [5]. - Excavation earthworks for the Pregnant Leach Solution (PLS) pond have started, with a capacity of 28,000 cubic meters [6]. Personnel and Safety - Over 531 staff and contractors are currently on-site, with approximately 50% from the Atacama region and 16% being women [7]. - The project achieved 161,917 person-hours worked with no lost time injuries reported by the end of Q4 2024 [8]. Geological and Exploration Activities - A 12,000-meter grade control drilling program will commence in February, focusing on the first three years of production [11]. - A 25,000-meter CSAMT electromagnetic survey will be conducted to identify geological targets for future exploration [12]. Expansion Potential - A preliminary study indicates the potential to expand the mining rate from 20,000 tonnes per day to 80,000 tonnes per day, potentially increasing gold production from approximately 100,000 ounces per annum to a target range of 250,000 to 300,000 ounces per annum [14]. - Baseline studies for an EIA related to the expansion are anticipated to be ready for review by Q4 2026 [14]. Company Leadership - Enrique Garay has returned as Senior Vice President - Geology to lead the geological team in preparation for mining [13].