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

Core Viewpoint - Canyon Resources Limited is advancing the Minim Martap Bauxite Project in Cameroon, showcasing strong economic metrics with a pre-tax NPV of US$835 million and an IRR of 29%, supported by a 33% increase in ore reserves to 144 million dry metric tonnes (DMT) at a high grade of 51.2% Al2O3 [1][5][17]. Ore Reserves Estimate Upgrade - The updated ore reserve estimate for Minim Martap has increased by 33% to 144 million DMT, with an alumina grade of 51.2% and silica content of 1.7% [6][17][22]. - The project is expected to maintain a long-term price premium of up to US$11 per tonne over Guinea standard bauxite due to its high alumina grade and low silica content [6][17]. Production and Development Plans - The project will adopt a staged development approach, with initial capital expenditure (CAPEX) of US$96 million and a target of 1.2 million wet metric tonnes (WMt) in the first year, ramping up to 10 million WMt per annum by Year 6 [6][17][23]. - First ore production is planned for Q1 2026, with the first bauxite shipment expected in H1 2026 [6][17][19]. Economic Metrics - The project has a low average operating cost of US$34.71 per wet metric tonne (wmt) and a total project CAPEX of US$446 million [2][23][38]. - The project is projected to generate 20-year undiscounted free cash flows of US$1.989 billion, with a post-tax project payback period of 8 years [23][26]. Infrastructure and Financing - Canyon has secured a US$140 million debt facility from AFG Bank Cameroon and has existing cash reserves to cover initial development costs [19][46]. - The project benefits from existing rail capacity and port infrastructure, which supports a low capital cost development strategy [6][7][19]. Community and Economic Impact - The local community supports the project, recognizing its potential for significant long-term economic benefits, with an expected workforce comprising 97% local people [40][41]. - The project is anticipated to contribute to the development of new economic infrastructure and improvements to existing facilities in Cameroon [41][50].