TRX Gold Reports Robust PEA on Next Buckreef Gold Expansion

Core Viewpoint - TRX Gold Corporation announced positive results from a Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for the expansion of its Buckreef Gold Project in Tanzania, indicating significant potential for increased gold production and favorable economics under various gold price scenarios [2][3][68]. Project Overview - The PEA evaluates an expansion of the existing process plant to 3,000 tonnes per day and a transition from open pit to underground mining over the next 2-3 years [2][3]. - The project is expected to produce an average of 62,000 ounces of gold per year over a mine life of 17.6 years, with potential peak production exceeding 80,000 ounces annually during the first five years of underground operations [5][19]. Economic Metrics - The base case pre-tax NPV5% is estimated at US$701 million at an average gold price of US$2,296 per ounce, increasing to US$1.2 billion at a gold price of US$3,000 per ounce [5][6][68]. - Life of Mine (LOM) cash costs are projected to average US$1,024 per ounce, with all-in sustaining costs (AISC) averaging US$1,206 per ounce [5][26][68]. Capital Expenditures - Growth capital expenditures are estimated at US$89 million over the next four years, primarily for underground expansion and process improvements [5][22][68]. - Total LOM growth capital is projected at US$175 million, with sustaining capital costs estimated at US$184 million [22][25]. Mineral Resource Estimates - The project hosts a Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource of 10.8 million tonnes at 2.57 grams per tonne, containing 893,000 ounces of gold, and an Inferred Mineral Resource of 9.1 million tonnes at 2.47 grams per tonne, containing 726,000 ounces of gold [5][68][31]. Production and Processing - The PEA indicates a total process plant throughput of 18.1 million tonnes, with an average recovery rate of 87% [5][9][48]. - The existing infrastructure supports the planned expansion, allowing for a smooth transition to increased production levels [5][54]. Future Plans - The company plans to further evaluate opportunities for additional process plant capacity and increased mining rates to enhance project economics [3][6]. - TRX Gold is committed to maintaining high environmental, social, and corporate governance standards as it advances the Buckreef Gold Project [69].