What's Happening?
Larvotto Resources, an ASX-listed company, has entered into an engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) contract with MACA-Interquip-Mintrex (MIQM) for the refurbishment and upgrade of its Hillgrove antimony/gold processing plant in New South Wales. The contract includes the design and upgrade of the plant, featuring an ultra-fine grinding circuit and a filtered tailings circuit, aiming for a throughput of approximately 525,000 tons per year. Early works have commenced on secondary crushing and tailings filtration areas. Larvotto is positioning itself to become a significant antimony producer, expected to meet 7% of global demand, with commissioning planned for the third quarter of 2026. The project is progressing with a team of about 60 people on-site, focusing on secondary crushing and tailings filtration, and has successfully restored grid power to the site.
Why It's Important?
The upgrade of the Hillgrove processing plant is a strategic move for Larvotto Resources, as it aims to become a major player in the antimony market, a critical mineral used in various industrial applications. The project aligns with global efforts to secure stable supply chains for essential minerals, especially as governments prioritize stockpiling strategic resources. The refurbishment not only enhances Larvotto's production capabilities but also positions the company to capitalize on high gold prices, providing a dual revenue stream. This development could significantly impact the global antimony supply, reducing reliance on existing producers and potentially stabilizing market prices. Additionally, the project supports local employment and economic growth in New South Wales.
What's Next?
With the EPCM contract in place, Larvotto Resources is set to continue its plant upgrade and move towards production. The company plans to complete the refurbishment by the third quarter of 2026, with ongoing exploration efforts aimed at expanding resources and extending the mine's life. As the project progresses, Larvotto may attract further investment and partnerships, enhancing its market position. The successful execution of this project could lead to increased interest in similar ventures, promoting further development in the critical minerals sector.
