Core Viewpoint - Almonty Industries has successfully delivered the first truckload of ore to the ROM pad at the Sangdong Mine, marking a significant transition to active mining operations and paving the way for commercial production [1][2]. Company Developments - The first ore placement at the Sangdong Mine is seen as a strategic inflection point for Almonty, aimed at strengthening the global tungsten supply chain and reducing reliance on China, which currently supplies over 80% of the world's tungsten [2][4]. - The ROM pad will serve as a staging area for ore, which will undergo primary and secondary crushing, grinding, and flotation to produce tungsten-bearing minerals for downstream customers [3][4]. - Preparatory work for the project has been completed, confirming that the ROM pad is operational and that the necessary equipment and workflows are functioning effectively [4]. Industry Context - The Sangdong Mine is positioned to play a critical role in diversifying tungsten supply for the U.S., European Union, and Korea, addressing supply vulnerabilities highlighted by recent geopolitical tensions [2][5]. - Upon reaching full capacity, the Sangdong Mine is expected to supply over 80% of global non-China tungsten production, which is essential for sectors such as defense, semiconductors, and aerospace [5]. - The development of the Sangdong Mine, along with an upcoming tungsten oxide plant and a planned molybdenum deposit, aims to establish a fully integrated strategic-mineral value chain, enhancing resource security for the U.S. and its allies [4][5].
Almonty Begins Commercial Mining at Sangdong Tungsten Mine