Torex Gold begins copper concentrate production at Media Luna

Canadian bullion producer Torex Gold (TSX: TXG) has achieved first production of precious metal-rich copper concentrate at its Media Luna mine, part of the company’s Morelo Complex in Mexico.

The milestone follows the completion of a four-week process to connect and integrate the processing plant at its $950 million project, which is expected to sustain annual production of at least 450,000 gold-equivalent ounces through 2030.

“Almost three years to the day of the release of our feasibility study for the Media Luna project, we have achieved first production of copper concentrate,” chief executive Jody Kuzenko said in a statement. “This milestone represents substantial completion of the project and the beginning of the next chapter in the evolution and growth of Torex as we become a gold and copper producer.”

Trucking of the copper concentrate will begin shortly, with sales and logistics contracts already in place. Commercial production remains on track to start in the coming weeks.

The Media Luna underground project contains significant gold, copper, and silver mineralization. Located seven kilometres from the company’s El Limón Guajes mine complex on the south side of the Balsas River, Media Luna is expected to ramp up underground mining rates to 7,500 tonnes per day by next year.

The mine is projected to produce 45 million pounds of copper annually, strengthening Torex’s long-term production outlook.