Definitive Feasibility Study Results and Reserves Upgrade Confirms Minim Martap as a Tier-One Bauxite Operation

Core Insights - Canyon Resources Limited has released an updated Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) for the Minim Martap Bauxite Project, confirming strong economics and a phased development pathway for a major new bauxite producer [14][15]. - The Ore Reserve estimate has increased by 33% to 144 million tonnes (Mt) of Direct Shipping Ore (DSO) at 51.2% Al2O3 and 1.7% SiO2, which supports the long-term future of the project [8][15]. - The project is expected to have a pre-tax Net Present Value (NPV) of US$835 million and an Internal Rate of Return (IRR) of 29%, indicating a compelling investment opportunity [5][21]. Project Economics - The project has low capital expenditure (CAPEX) requirements, with Stage 1 CAPEX estimated at US$96 million and total project CAPEX projected at US$446 million [6][21]. - C1 operating costs are estimated at US$34.71 per wet metric tonne (wmt), with a long-term average cash cost forecasted at US$35/wmt [3][21]. - The project aims to produce approximately 10 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) of bauxite, with a production target of 1.2 million tonnes in Year 1, ramping up to 10 million tonnes by Year 6 [8][24]. Production and Development Timeline - First ore production is planned for Q1 2026, with the first bauxite shipment expected in H1 2026 [15][48]. - The project will utilize a staged development approach, with production targets scheduled around the upgrade of the rail infrastructure [8][9]. - Existing rail capacity will allow for low CAPEX and fast-tracked development, with the World Bank committing US$818 million to upgrade the rail corridor by 2030 [3][8]. Community and Economic Impact - The local community supports the project, recognizing its potential for significant long-term economic benefits, including job creation with a workforce expected to be 97% local [36][37]. - The project is anticipated to contribute to the development of new economic infrastructure and improvements to existing facilities, including roads and rail links [37][45]. Resource and Reserve Details - The Ore Reserve classification includes 133.3 million tonnes of Proved reserves and 10.7 million tonnes of Probable reserves, with a total Mineral Resource estimate of approximately 1.1 billion tonnes [19][62]. - The project will target high-grade bauxite with a minimum of 51% Al2O3 and a maximum of 2% SiO2, ensuring a premium pricing position in the market [5][62]. Funding and Financial Strategy - The project is supported by a US$140 million debt facility from AFG Bank Cameroon and existing cash reserves exceeding Stage 1 capital development costs [17][40]. - Canyon Resources has a strategic partnership with Eagle Eye Asset Holdings, which has invested significantly in the company and continues to support its funding needs [40].