Core Lithium Ltd (ASX:CXO) is loading its first cargo of spodumene concentrate from its Finiss Lithium Operations at the Port of Darwin, in what is a “significant milestone” for the company.
In addition, the company has been granted mining authorisation and a mine management plan (MMP) for the BP33 underground project from the Northern Territory Government.
Deputy chief minister and minister for Mining and Industry Nicole Manison, who was present at Darwin Port to see the loading of St Andrew, said: “Core Lithium has demonstrated their ability to extract and export critical minerals within a short time frame.
“This latest proposed mine will be no exception and comes with benefits to local suppliers, local jobs and the Territory economy.
“Lithium is in high demand right across the world and the Northern Territory has the resources needed for a renewable future.”
Final step in approvals at BP33
This is the final step in the approvals process for BP33 ahead of a potential investment decision by Core’s board.
BP33 is situated within trucking distance of the Grants open pit, crusher and DMS plant and has a mineral resource of 10.1 million tonnes @ 1.48% lithium (Li2O).
“Significant milestone”
The shipment, which contains some5,500 tonnes of on-specification 5.6% Li2O spodumene concentrate, was sold to long-term customer Sichuan Yahua in March.
St Andrew is currently being loaded with the first spodumene concentrate produced from the Grants open pit and is scheduled to set sail within the coming days.
Core Lithium CEO Gareth Manderson said: “Core Lithium would like to acknowledge the support of the government of the Northern Territory.
“We have been able to commence operations at Finniss in a favourable market when it can deliver benefits for the NT and all its stakeholders due to the professional and efficient processes for approvals.
“The BP33 development approval is another example of this.
“The first export of Finniss’ spodumene concentrate was delivered safely to port ahead of schedule. This is a significant milestone for the Core business, our shareholders and the Finniss Lithium Operation.
“With the resumption of full mining activities at Grant's, we were also able to produce, transport and load an additional 2,000 tonnes onto St Andrew as part of our sales agreements with Yahua.
“Our focus now is to safely complete commissioning of the Dense Media Separation (DMS) plant at Finniss and ramp up our integrated operation.”