Algeria awards Terramin mining permit for Tala Hamza zinc project
The Algerian mining regulator has granted a mining permit for the Tala Hamza zinc project to Terramin Australia, a mining company. This permit signifies that the project has met all of the country’s regulatory, financial, and environmental requirements and can now proceed with its development.
The mining permit allows for mining and processing operations of two metric tonnes per annum (tpa) of ore, which is an increase from the 1.3 tpa initially anticipated in the 2018 feasibility study. This increase in volume indicates improved returns over the expected mine life, which is projected to exceed 20 years.
Tala Hamza zinc project
The permit encompasses all the necessary areas of land required for the mine’s operation, including mining, processing, haul roads, ore stockpiles, tailings, dams, concrete handling, maintenance, and administration. Terramin Australia’s executive chairman, Bruce Sheng, expressed great satisfaction in receiving the mining permit, recognizing it as a critical milestone for the project’s implementation. He thanked all those involved, including the Algerian regulators for their cooperation and support throughout the process, as well as their Algerian partners for their collaboration and assistance in achieving this significant milestone.
The Tala Hamza zinc project is situated near the Mediterranean Sea, approximately 15km from Béjaia, Algeria. It is owned by Western Mediterranean Zinc, a joint venture between Terramin and Enterprise Nationale des Produits Miniers Non-Ferreux et des Substances Utiles Spa.
The project holds considerable resources, with 68.6 million tonnes of ore at 4.6% zinc and 1.2% lead at a cut-off grade of 2.5% zinc equivalent. Additionally, the deposit is located within the 125km² Oued Amizour permit and presents several potential prospects for lead-zinc and copper.
The proximity of Béjaia provides the project with advantageous infrastructure, including an international airport and a deepwater port. The location also offers access to grid power, water resources, and close proximity to European zinc smelters.
