Silvercorp to acquire 70% stake in Kyrgyzstan gold projects

Core Viewpoint - Silvercorp Metals is acquiring a 70% interest in the Tulkubash and Kyzyltash gold projects in Kyrgyzstan for $162 million, aiming to enhance its mining portfolio and production capabilities [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - Silvercorp has signed a share purchase agreement with Chaarat Gold and a cooperation agreement with the National Investment Agency of Kyrgyzstan [1]. - The acquisition includes control over Chaarat ZAAV CJSC, which holds mining and exploration licenses in the Tian Shan region, and will be converted into a joint venture with Kyrgyzaltyn [2]. Group 2: Financial Commitments and Development Plans - Silvercorp will make staged payments totaling $70 million to the National Investment Agency, contingent on government approvals and extending the mining license to 2062 [3]. - The development plan consists of two phases: the first phase involves constructing a four million tonnes per annum open-pit mine at Tulkubash, expected to start production between 2027 and 2028, with an investment of $150 million [3][4]. Group 3: Production Expectations - The first phase aims for an annual output of approximately 110,000 ounces of gold over three to four years [4]. - The second phase targets the Kyzyltash sulphide deposit development from 2028 to 2031, involving around $400 million, with production expected to yield 190,000 to 230,000 ounces of gold annually for more than 18 years [4][5]. Group 4: Resource Estimates - The Tulkubash project has a measured and indicated resource of 856,000 ounces of gold at a grade of 1.36 grams per tonne, with an inferred resource of 100,000 ounces at 1.37 grams per tonne [6]. - The Kyzyltash project holds a measured and indicated resource of 6.02 million ounces of gold at a grade of 2.57 grams per tonne, along with 18.7 million ounces of silver at 8 grams per tonne [6][7].