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The Government of New Brunswick announced a new comprehensive mineral strategy on Tuesday (March 3), at the 2026 Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada conference in Toronto.

The plan calls for a streamlined permitting process that will ensure clear communication and transparent timelines. Additionally, it promises a collaborative partnership with First Nations, science-based decision-making and a community-based approach to jobs, procurement and infrastructure.

Oil prices jumped significantly this week following the start of the US-led war against Iran. West Texas Intermediate has surged more than 25 percent since March first, climbing to over US$90 per barrel in trading on Friday, the first time since October 2022.

The most significant gains came on Friday, after Iran effectively stopped traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. More than 20 percent of the world’s liquefied natural gas and 25 percent of oil shipments travel through the strait.

The price rise has had a downstream effect on gas prices in Canada and the US, increasing by up to C$0.10 per liter and US$0.27 per gallon, respectively.

Over the past week, US producers have activated four additional rigs, bringing the total rig count to 411, although that total is down by 75 from the same period last year. Most companies are unlikely to rush to restart operations shuttered due to low oil prices until there is a more sustainable rise in oil prices.

Meanwhile, the war caused turmoil in bond markets as concerns over inflation and rising central bank interest rates seeped into the market. US two-year bonds rose by 18 basis points, while Britain’s rose by 43 basis points.

For more on what’s moving markets this week, check out our top market news round-up.

Markets and commodities react

Canadian equity markets were largely down this week.

The S&P/TSX Composite Index (INDEXTSI:OSPTX) fell 3.87 percent over the week to close Friday (March 6) at 33,083.72, while the S&P/TSX Venture Composite Index (INDEXTSI:JX) slipped 4.54 percent to 1,057.04.

However, the CSE Composite Index (CSE:CSECOMP) gained 1.27 percent to 178.51.

The gold price fell 3.31 percent to close at US$5,170.63 per ounce on Friday at 4:00 p.m. EST. The silver price fared worse, closing the week down 6.4 percent at US$84.30 on Friday.

In base metals, the Comex copper price recorded a 2.01 percent decrease this week to US$5.85 per pound.

The S&P Goldman Sachs Commodities Index (INDEXSP:SPGSCI) was up 16.14 percent to end Friday at 700.62.

Top Canadian mining stocks this week

How did mining stocks perform against this backdrop? Take a look at this week’s five best-performing Canadian mining stocks below.

Stocks data for this article was retrieved at 4:00 p.m. EST on Friday using TradingView’s stock screener. Only companies trading on the TSX, TSXV and CSE with market caps greater than C$10 million are included. Mineral companies within the non-energy minerals, energy minerals, process industry and producer manufacturing sectors were considered.

1. Adex Mining (TSXV:ADE)

Weekly gain: 100 percent
Market cap: C$128.67 million
Share price: C$0.19

Adex Mining is an exploration company that holds a 100 percent stake in the Mount Pleasant project in Southwest New Brunswick, Canada. The property contains two main deposits: the Fire Tower zone, which hosts tungsten and molybdenum mineralization, and the North zone, which hosts tin, zinc and indium.

The asset consists of 102 mineral claims covering 1,600 hectares, as well as equipment and facilities from historic mining operations conducted by BHP (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BHP) between 1983 and 1985.

According to its most recent investor presentation released on June 11, the property hosts the world’s largest indium reserve and North America’s largest tin deposit. Indicated resources for the North zone demonstrate contained metal values of 47 million kilograms of tin, and 789,000 kilograms of indium from 12.4 million metric tons with average grades of 0.38 percent tin and 64 parts per million indium.

Adex Mining has not released news since it published its interim management discussion and analysis on November 18.

In a mid-February interview, New Brunswick Natural Resources Minister John Herron revealed that a deal “is due imminently with a well-known company in the Canadian mining community” for Adex’s Mount Pleasant project.

While the company did not release news this week, the project may benefit from the freshly announced New Brunswick Comprehensive Mineral Strategy. The report highlights Mount Pleasant’s indium, tin and tungsten mineralization.

2. Southern Energy (TSXV:SOU)

Weekly gain: 91.67 percent
Market cap: C$29.3 million
Share price: C$0.115

Southern Energy is an oil and gas company with assets located in Mississippi, US. The majority of its production is natural gas.

Its operations are centered around the state’s Interior Salt Basin, in the northeastern Gulf Coast Region. Southern has an interest in producing wells spread across several assets, including Gwinville, Mechanicsburg and Mount Olive East.

According to a February 2026 corporate presentation, current production from the company’s wells is about 11 million cubic feet of natural gas equivalent per day, with 27.9 million barrels of oil equivalent in reserves.

The company’s most recent news came on February 12, when Southern closed a non-brokered private placement that generated proceeds of US$23.5 million. The company said the funds will be used to repay the balance of a US$12.9 million senior credit facility, with the rest being directed to development capital, including the completion of two wells in Gwinville.

The share price gains also come amid volatility in the energy market.

3. Africa Energy (TSXV:AFE)

Weekly gain: 86.67 percent
Market cap: C$165.31 million
Share price: C$0.42

Africa Energy is a South Africa focused oil and gas exploration and development company.

Its flagship asset is Block 11B/12B located approximately 175 kilometers off the south coast of South Africa. The block covers an area of 18,734 square kilometers and depths between 200 meters and 1,800 meters.

It holds a 4.9 percent interest in the asset through its investment in Main Street 1549, a 49/51 joint venture with Arostyle Investments. The three other partners in the asset announced plans to withdraw from the Block 11B/12B joint venture in July 2024, and announced a definitive agreement for the new ownership structure of the Block 11B/12B asset in May 2025.

The restructuring would result in Africa Energy owning a direct 75 percent stake in the block, with Arostyle holding the remainder. This is contingent on the asset being granted the production rights, which itself requires approval of its environmental and social impact assessment. The report must be submitted by May 2026.

Shares of Africa Energy posted gains this week amid energy market volatility.

The company has not released any news since January 26, when it announced the resignation of Dr. Phindile Masangane as Director and Head of Strategy and Business Development. She will still assist Africa Energy as a consultant.

4. Gabriel Resources (TSXV:GBU)

Weekly gain: 60 percent
Market cap: C$41.58 million
Share price: C$0.16

Gabriel Resources is a precious metals explorer and developer focused on advancing its Rosia Montana gold project. Based in Transylvania, Romania, Rosia Montana is in a region that has seen significant historic mining. Covering 2,388 hectares, the site is host to a mid-to-shallow epithermal system containing deposits of gold and silver.

The most recent resource estimate from a 2012 technical report shows proven and probable quantities of 10.1 million ounces of gold and 47.6 million ounces of silver. Gabriel has invested more than US$760 million into Rosia Montana, but has undertaken little development at the site since the early 2010s, as Romania blocked further development.

In 2015, the company entered into arbitration through the World Bank’s International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID) over permitting at the site and suggested that Romania was in violation of bilateral investment treaties. In March 2024, Gabriel issued a press release with an update saying that its case against Romania had been dismissed by the ICSID, which also awarded Romania US$10 million in legal fees and expenses. Gabriel said it would review the decision with its legal team and evaluate its options.

In March 2025, Gabriel announced that the committee had ruled that a stay of enforcement of the Award would continue if Gabriel guaranteed the proven solvency of the US$10 million.

The committee was scheduled to hold hearings on January 22 and 23 of this year, but on January 19, Gabriel reported that the hearings would be postponed to a later date. A new date for the hearing has not been announced.

The company did not release news in the past week.

5. Rio Silver (TSXV:RYO)

Weekly gain: 48.05 percent
Market cap: C$41.58 million
Share price: C$1.14

Rio Silver is an exploration company advancing its Maria Norte project in Peru. The property changed hands several times in the 18 years prior to Rio Silver’s acquisition in March 2025, but saw little exploration during that time.

However, in a February 5 release, the company noted that historic mining occurred as the site hosts a reclaimed waste dump. In that announcement, the firm said it plans to advance surface mapping and sampling in the third quarter of 2026.

Throughout January, Rio Silver made several announcements regarding its exploration and development timeline. On January 6, the company reported results from technical work at the site, confirming the presence of silver mineralization with grades up to 991 g/t in a 0.7 meter channel sample.

To end the month, the company said it was launching a metallurgical program at the site to assist in determining the project’s potential value.

The most recent news came last week in a pair of releases.

The first on February 25, the company announced a new private placement to raise proceeds of up to C$3 million. Funds will be used to advance work at the Maria Norte project. The placement is being led by Sprott (TSX:SII,NYSE:SII) Founder Eric Sprott.

The second release came on February 26 when Rio reported it secured permission from the local community to begin site activities at Maria Norte. The company said it will continue working with the community to develop a formal definitive agreement for long-term exploration and mining activities.

FAQs for Canadian mining stocks

What is the difference between the TSX and TSXV?

The TSX, or Toronto Stock Exchange, is used by senior companies with larger market caps, and the TSXV, or TSX Venture Exchange, is used by smaller-cap companies. Companies listed on the TSXV can graduate to the senior exchange.

How many mining companies are listed on the TSX and TSXV?

As of December 2025, 898 mining companies and 71 oil and gas companies are listed on the TSXV, combining for more than 60 percent of the 1,531 total companies listed on the exchange.

As for the TSX, it is home to 175 mining companies and 51 oil and gas companies. The exchange has 2,089 companies listed on it in total.

Together, the TSX and TSXV host around 40 percent of the world’s public mining companies.

How much does it cost to list on the TSXV?

There are a variety of different fees that companies must pay to list on the TSXV, and according to the exchange, they can vary based on the transaction’s nature and complexity. The listing fee alone will most likely cost between C$10,000 to C$70,000. Accounting and auditing fees could rack up between C$25,000 and C$100,000, while legal fees are expected to be over C$75,000 and an underwriters’ commission may hit up to 12 percent.

The exchange lists a handful of other fees and expenses companies can expect, including but not limited to security commission and transfer agency fees, investor relations costs and director and officer liability insurance.

These are all just for the initial listing, of course. There are ongoing expenses once companies are trading, such as sustaining fees and additional listing fees, plus the costs associated with filing regular reports.

How do you trade on the TSXV?

Investors can trade on the TSXV the way they would trade stocks on any exchange. This means they can use a stock broker or an individual investment account to buy and sell shares of TSXV-listed companies during the exchange’s trading hours.

Article by Dean Belder; FAQs by Lauren Kelly.

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Securities Disclosure: I, Lauren Kelly, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

Adrian Day, president of Adrian Day Asset Management, shares his latest thoughts on what’s moving the gold price, emphasizing that its bull run isn’t over yet.

‘It’s monetary factors that are driving gold — that’s what’s fundamentally driving gold,’ he said. ‘Monetary factors, lack of trust in governments and particularly lack of trust in fiat currencies.’

Securities Disclosure: I, Charlotte McLeod, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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Oreterra Metals (TSXV:OTMC) is a mineral exploration company focused on delivering large-scale discoveries and the shareholder value that typically follows. Its strategy targets copper-gold porphyry systems in North America, selected for their scale, comparatively lower discovery costs versus high-grade vein systems, and strong appeal to major mining companies as potential long-life operations. The company emerged in February 2026 following the restructuring and rebranding of its predecessor, driven by the exceptional potential of the Trek South prospect.

Oreterra’s flagship asset is the wholly owned Trek South copper-gold porphyry prospect on the 6,379-hectare Trek property in British Columbia’s Golden Triangle. The prospect has only recently become accessible due to glacial retreat and remains effectively new to modern geological exploration. First identified in 2019, work conducted since 2021 has advanced the project to drill-ready status.

A large-scale porphyry copper-gold prospect ready for its first-ever drilling, in 2026

The company is led by a veteran management team with more than 100 years of combined experience in exploration, finance, and governance. Following a recent $9.7 million financing and supported by a lean share structure, Oreterra is fully funded to test its high-conviction targets, with the first-ever drill program at Trek South planned for the 2026 field season.

Company Highlights

  • Fully Funded for 2026 Exploration: Recently completed a massively oversubscribed $9.7 million financing to support the first-ever drilling this summer of the wholly owned, large-scale Trek South prospect, only recently revealed by glacial ice melt.
  • Drill‑Ready Flagship: The Trek South target has everything one seeks in a new porphyry copper-gold discovery prospect: i.e. large scale, terrific rock exposure, intense porphyry-style changes and metal values on surface in those rocks, and stacked (coincident), strongly positive, magnetic and geophysical anomalies directly below.
  • Infrastructure Advantage: The Trek South prospect is just 3 kilometres up-slope from the nearest work camp, bridges and road presently under construction by the Teck/Newmont GCMC joint venture, and 12 kilometers from their proposed mill site.
  • Proven Management: Led by CEO Kevin Keough, founding CEO of GT Gold Corp. which delivered the Saddle North porphyry copper-gold discovery (Dec. 13, 2017), later sold to Newmont for $523 million cash in current dollars following just $16.7 million of exploration outlays (Saddle North only).
  • Asset Portfolio: Beyond the flagship, Oreterra holds high-grade gold and porphyry copper-gold assets in Nevada and Ontario.

This Oreterra Metals profile is part of a paid investor education campaign.*

Click here to connect with Oreterra Metals (TSXV:OTMC) to receive an Investor Presentation

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The global platinum market is expected to remain in deficit for a fourth consecutive year in 2026, even as supply begins to stabilize and demand moderates following a sharp rally in the metal’s price.

New projections from the World Platinum Investment Council (WPIC) show a deficit of about 240,000 ounces for 2026 following a significantly larger shortfall of 1.082 million ounces in 2025.

That’s the deepest deficit recorded in the group’s Platinum Quarterly data series since it began in 2014. According to data, the cumulative deficit since 2023 will approach 3 million ounces by the end of 2026.

As a result, aboveground platinum stocks are expected to remain historically low, falling to about 2.613 million ounces, which is equivalent to just over four months of global demand for the precious metal.

WPIC CEO Trevor Raymond said the factors that fueled platinum’s strong performance last year are expected to remain.

“The key drivers of platinum’s price rally in 2025, namely strong supply/demand fundamentals, a depletion of above ground stocks, and macropolitical uncertainty-driven precious metals demand, are expected to persist in 2026,” he said.

“Consequently, market tightness is likely to continue, maintaining investor interest in platinum, and further supporting bar and coin and ETF demand throughout the year.”

Platinum investment strength offsets softer overall demand

The forecast marks a shift from earlier expectations that the platinum market would return to balance in 2026.

Instead, strong investment sentiment and resilient exchange-traded fund holdings have pushed the market back into deficit territory. Even so, total demand for platinum is expected to decline moderately this year.

The WPIC projects overall demand will fall about 8 percent year-on-year to roughly 7.619 million ounces.

Much of that drop reflects a normalization in investment demand after a surge in 2025, when inflows into platinum exchange-traded funds and physical investment products climbed sharply.

However, demand for physical platinum bars and coins is expected to continue growing.

The WPIC forecasts that bar and coin investment will jump 35 percent in 2026 to 725,000 ounces, reaching the highest level recorded in the Platinum Quarterly dataset.

Investment purchases of platinum are increasing as the metal gains attention as a lower-priced alternative to gold, and as retail investment products become more widely available.

Supply growth lags as platinum deficit persists

While demand patterns shift across sectors, platinum supply growth remains limited.

Total platinum supply is expected to rise just 2 percent in 2026 to about 7.379 million ounces.

Mine output is forecast to remain essentially flat at roughly 5.553 million ounces, with production gains in South Africa and Zimbabwe offset by declines in North America and Russia.

The modest increase in supply will largely come from recycling. Higher platinum prices have encouraged the recovery of spent autocatalysts and recycled jewelry, pushing recycling supply up about 10 percent in 2025. That trend is expected to continue this year, with recycled metal rising another 10 percent to approximately 1.827 million ounces.

Still, the additional recycled material is unlikely to fully offset the underlying market tightness. As Raymond noted, another factor that could further deepen the deficit has yet to be fully reflected in current forecasts.

“One item not yet captured in the supply/demand balance is any exchange stocks warehoused with the Guangzhou Futures Exchange, which could potentially deepen the deficit versus current projections once these are made publicly available,” he said. For platinum investors, the persistence of deficits suggests that the market’s underlying fundamentals remain supportive even as demand moderates from last year’s highs.

“The price rally we’ve seen this year has not solved the deficit,” he said.

“Normally, in a deficit market, you would expect the price to increase. Clearly, the elevated prices we’ve experienced is still insufficient to attract more supply into the market or drag more metal out of aboveground stocks.”

With supply growth limited and inventories shrinking, the platinum market is likely to remain structurally tight, sustaining investor interest through 2026.

Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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Modern society has a metals problem. The demands of modern consumer culture, the energy transition and the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics have created a dilemma.

As demand rises, the supply of many metals is at a bottleneck brought about by a number of factors, from government red tape to civil unrest, as well as lack of capital expenditures leading to fewer new discoveries and mines.

On top of this, mining companies focused on essential metals like copper are facing additional challenges, as in many cases the easy discoveries have already been made and existing mines are seeing declining grades, causing further constraints to supply.

BHP (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BHP) Digital Officer Mikko Tepponen suggests that the very technologies that rely on metals and mining can be the answer in his presentation at the 2026 Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada conference.

Addressing data fragmentation in exploration

Once companies open up capital expenditures to the exploration side of the mining sector, several questions arise, most notably: Where are the minerals?

At its core, exploration relies on the geosciences, with a geologist in the field, sampling rocks, conducting surveys and using the data gathered to estimate where the best place is to put a drill for a look below the surface.

Mining is a data-driven enterprise, and depending on the project, the information can come from a range of methods, from modern techniques to historic observations, meaning the data is fragmented across a variety of sources and formats.

AI and machine learning can be good at processing and interpolating large quantities of information. However, data accessibility creates another roadblock.

“Across our industry, vast volumes of exploration data are sealed in archive rooms, and legacy systems can’t read through third-party data sets,” Tepponen said. “That data is neither structured, searchable nor interoperable. That means AI cannot make easy sense of it, and in many cases, that data was never extracted.”

For Tepponen, one of the challenges the mining industry needs to overcome is data fragmentation. Without enough data or proper information, there is an increased risk of making the wrong exploration decisions.

“Time matters because capital is finite. Drill meters are expensive, and decisions about capital allocation have multi-year impacts down the line,” he said.

The way BHP has implemented a data-centric approach is building a central data platform that integrates the decades of exploration data, standardizes it and makes it accessible through a central team within the company.

Tepponen says the platform supports 52 standardized core geoscience types, backed by more than 100 years of data, helping its exploration teams save months of time.

“Our geoscientists can access more than 4 million drill hole cores and 9,000 geophysical surveys through one portal,” he added.

Using BHP’s in-house AI extraction tool, one team of geoscientists obtained data from thousands of drill holes from 30,000 legacy document records. They then used the central data platform to combine that with modern drilling data.

According to Tepponen, the team completed the work in a few hours, while doing so manually would have taken months, and results were higher quality than the previous method.

However, he stressed that the integration of AI into its workflow wasn’t about replacing geoscience teams, but about “amplifying the work of geoscientists by creating a digital tool that enables them to focus on higher value.”

Additionally, the information in the platform is not limited to BHP’s data. Tepponen explained that the entire system is built on an open-source database designed to break down data silos and enable cross-sector collaboration.

Using targeted optimizations to avoid disruptions

While exploration poses a bottleneck to the development of new projects for future supply, disruptions to existing operations significantly impact current output.

It’s often impossible to predict major events like extreme weather, civil unrest or regulatory changes. However, operators can foresee some disruptions that result in hundreds of hours of downtime throughout the industry every year.

Tepponen outlined one persistent problem: oversized rocks and foreign objects making their way through processing plants.

“If an uncrushable rock or piece of metal gets into the crusher, it can cause blockages, damage belts and create significant downtime,” he said. “If it travels downstream, it can damage equipment and create critical bottlenecks.”

In Western Australia, BHP employs a hub-and-spoke model that connects five mines to a central processing facility. If one of the hazards disrupts operations at the facility, it can affect operations at the mines connected to it.

Additionally, fixing these issues exposes maintenance teams to higher-risk tasks, so eliminating the problem in the first place improves both productivity and safety.

Tepponen explained that historically, workers would be used to identify the hazards before they were loaded onto the truck, but once they reached the conveyor, they became much harder to remove.

The company now employs a real-time monitoring system that detects objects, alerts controllers and can automatically stop the conveyor.

“These are actually very simple technologies available commercially off the shelf. Cameras and machine learning control systems applied to a real world operational constraint,” he said.

In the prior three years, these incidents had caused over 1,000 hours of downtime, according to Tepponen. However, since it installed the monitoring system, the company hasn’t experienced any major disruptions or destruction events caused by oversized rocks, a change that he said amounts to hundreds of thousands of metric tons per year of increased processing.

“It’s a small system-level optimization that can deliver outsized returns on the AI journey. This is not a massive program. This is identifying simple constraints, applying proven technology,” he said, and emphasized the process of controlled testing, iteration and then deploying at scale. ‘That’s how systematic innovation actually happens.’

Testing scenarios with digital twin simulations

In his third use case example, he turned to BHP’s semi-autogenous grinding (SAG) mill at its Escondida operation in Chile, at which differing particle size and hardness in ore feed was impacting production.

The company used AI to create a digital twin of the value chain, which included everything that was known about the operation, such as ore body knowledge, processing behavior and operational constraints.

“That digital simulation enabled scenario testing and gave us the ability to inform blasting and blending strategies to predict granularity,” Tepponen said, noting that monthly production losses attributed to the problem fell by around 70 percent.

“The lesson, when the ore body knowledge is connected directly to the processing decisions, the system becomes more stable and predictable.”

BHP has since applied the approach to other operations, including ones in Australia and Chile.

“The Gen AI integration is multicultural, so non-technical users and the technical users can run scenarios in their first language,” he said, an aspect that he said is very important for the local companies at its operations.

Building foundations, collaboration key to AI usefulness

Tepponen was emphatic that AI alone wasn’t a “superhero.” BHP needed to specifically design these AI platforms in order to achieve these results.

“One of the most important lessons we have learned is we don’t actually get value from AI by starting with AI. The value comes from the foundations, consistent data standards, interoperability. You need to start at the bottom and make your way to the top.”

Tepponen also stressed the value of collaboration, noting that companies tend to be protective of their intellectual property, but opportunities are being missed that could be mutually beneficial.

“The hard truth is, no company can solve this problem of data fragmentation and system integration,” he said, and the industry would benefit from a collaborative approach on standards, interoperability and data throughout the value chain.

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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In 2025, supply disruptions highlighted a growing concern as copper mines in the top copper-producing countries were aging without new mines to replace them.

Additionally, copper demand from electrification is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.

The competing forces of the global macroeconomic situation and a tightening supply and demand situation caused major swings in the copper price last year, and the red metal set a new all-time high in January 2026 as it moved above the US$6 per pound mark on the COMEX for the first time.

Despite a tight supply situation, demand from the energy transition has largely been muted as China, traditionally the largest consumer of copper for its infrastructure, works to stimulate its flagging economy.

The forecast for copper over the next few years is that supply deficits will continue to widen, which in turn should provide more tailwinds for the price of copper and greater upside to company balance sheets.

For investors interested in copper, it’s worth looking at copper production by country. According to the latest US Geological Survey data, global copper production reached 23 million metric tons (MT) in 2025.

Chile again took the crown to become the top copper producing country last year, but some of the others on the list may surprise you. Read on to find out the top 10 copper countries and what mines are driving each country’s copper output.

1. Chile

Copper production: 5.3 million metric tons

In 2025, Chile produced 5.3 million metric tons of copper, making it the world’s largest copper producing country with about 23 percent of the total global copper output. Its copper production dropped 210,000 MT in 2025 compared to its 2024 output. Chile also takes first place for copper reserves with 180 million MT.

Naturally, many of the world’s leading copper miners have substantial operations in Chile, including the state-owned Codelco, Anglo American (LSE:AAL,OTCQX:AAUKF), Glencore (LSE:GLEN,OTC Pink:GLCNF) and Antofagasta (LSE:ANTO,OTC Pink:ANFGF).

Chile is also home to BHP’s (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BHP) Escondida, the largest copper mine in the world with an annual output in the 2 million metric ton range. BHP owns a 57.5 percent stake in the operation, with Rio Tinto (ASX:RIO,NYSE:RIO,LSE:RIO) owning 30 percent and Jeco holding the remaining stake.

According to BHP’s 2025 annual report, the company’s portion of Escondida production came in at 1.13 million MT of copper in 2025.

Despite production disruptions at Codelco’s El Teniente, Chile’s copper production is expected to grow to 5.61 million MT in 2026, according to Chile’s copper industry watchdog Cochilco.

2. Democratic Republic of Congo

Copper production: 3.2 million metric tons

In 2025, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) produced 3.2 million metric tons of copper, accounting for nearly 14 percent of global copper output.

The DRC has rapidly increased its copper production in recent years, and its 2025 output marked a continuation of the trend, rising from 2.99 million MT the previous year.

One of the country’s largest copper operations is the Kamoa-Kakula copper complex, a joint venture between Ivanhoe Mines (TSX:IVN,OTCQX:IVPAF) and Zijin Mining Group (HKEX:2899,SHA:601899,OTCPL:ZIJMF). The operation’s Phase 3 expansion commenced commercial production in August 2024.

In 2025, Kamoa-Kakula produced 388,838 MT of copper, a significant decrease from the 437,061 MT produced in 2024. While its copper output was supported by Phase 3, it was impacted by a temporary shutdown of sections of the mine in May 2025 after seismic activity and flooding occurred at the complex. On January 2, 2026, the company announced that it was proceeding to stage 3 dewatering as it works to ramp up production at the affected areas of the mine.

3. Peru

Copper production: 2.7 million metric tons

In 2025, Peru produced 2.7 million metric tons of copper, accounting for just below 12 percent of the world’s copper output. Its total is down a slight 40,000 MT from its copper output in 2024.

Freeport-McMoRan (NYSE:FCX) operates Cerro Verde, the largest copper mine in Peru. In its Q4 2025 report, the company reported that the mine produced 863 million pounds of copper, equivalent to 391,450 MT. This was down from 949 million pounds in 2024.

Other significant copper operations in Peru include Anglo American’s (LSE:AAL,OTCQX:NGLOY) Quellaveco mine and Southern Copper’s (NYSE:SCCO) Tia Maria mine. The majority of copper produced in Peru is shipped to China and Japan, and South Korea and Germany are other top export destinations.

4. China

Copper production: 1.8 million metric tons

In 2025, China mined 1.8 million metric tons of copper, marginally lower than the 1.84 million metric tons produced in 2024. The country’s production hit a peak of 1.94 million MT in 2022.

While the country is fourth place for mine production, when it comes to refined copper production, China is by far the winner. In 2025, China’s refined copper production totaled 14 million metric tons, representing more than 48 percent of global refined copper production and six times the production of the DRC, the second highest refined copper producer.

Zijin Mining Group, a leading metal producer in China, owns a majority stake in the Qulong copper-molybdenum-silver-gold mine in Tibet, the largest copper mine in China.

Zijin reported the Qulong mine produced over 190,000 MT of copper in 2025. Phase 2 started production in January 2026, and is expected to raise its copper output to 300,000 MT in 2026.

5. Russia

Copper production: 1.3 million metric tons

Russia produced 1.3 metric tons of copper in 2025, a sizable increase from the 1.02 million MT produced the previous year.

One of the key contributions to the rise in Russian copper output is the ramp up of Phase 1 production at Udokan Copper’s Udokan mine in Siberia, which entered production in 2023. Phase 1 is expected to produce up to 135,000 MT of copper per year once fully online. This is expected to grow to 450,000 MT if Phase 2 enters production.

Although the copper hydrometallurgical plant at Udokan was delayed by fires in late 2023, copper mining was reported to be unaffected. Udokan pivoted to exporting its copper concentrate instead of refining it domestically, and in a September 2025 release, the company reported it had cumulatively exported 160,000 MT of copper equivalent since the start of production.

6. United States

Copper production: 1 million metric tons

The United States produced 1 million metric tons of copper in 2025. This was down slightly from 1.04 million MT of copper the prior year, and continued a downward trend from the 1.23 million MT the country produced in 2022.

The majority of US copper comes from Arizona, which accounts for 70 percent of domestic supply. Other states with significant copper output include Michigan, Missouri, Montana, Nevada and New Mexico. Overall, 17 mines are responsible for 99 percent of copper production in the United States.

Freeport McMoRan’s Morenci mine in Arizona, a joint venture with Sumitomo (OTC Pink:SSUMF,TSE:8053), is the largest copper mine in the US. According to Freeport’s Q4 2025 report, its combined US operations produced 1.3 billion pounds of copper over the course of the year, equivalent to 591,484 MT.

Other significant operations include Freeport’s Safford and Sierrita mines, at which copper production totaled 249 million MT and 165 million MT respectively.

7. Zambia

Copper production: 940,000 metric tons

In 2025, Zambia produced 940,000 metric tons of copper, up significantly from 823,000 MT in 2024. Production fell to 712,000 MT in 2023 after reaching 840,000 MT in 2021; however, over the last two years, production has rebounded.

There are four major mines that dominate the country’s copper production, including Barrick’s (TSX:ABX,NYSE:B) Lumwana and First Quantum Minerals’ (TSX:FM,OTCPL:FQVLF) Kansanshi.

According to First Quantum’s fourth quarter report, Kansanshi produced 181,183 MT of copper during 2025, up from 170,929 MT the prior year.

Mopani Copper Mines is another major copper producer in the country. While the company was previously owned by a joint venture between Glencore (LSE:GLEN,OTCPL:GLCNF) and First Quantum, the Zambian government, which previously held a 10 percent stake, acquired full ownership in 2021.

8. Australia

Copper production: 730,000 metric tons

In 2025, Australia produced 730,000 metric tons of copper, a slight decrease from the 765,000 MT produced in 2024.

The country’s largest copper operation is BHP’s Olympic Dam mine in South Australia. According to BHP’s annual report, its Australian operations produced 101,900 MT of copper in 2025, down from 106,300 MT in 2024.

The state of Queensland is home to the Mount Isa complex, run by a subsidiary of Glencore. While it was one of Australia’s largest copper producers, the operation was shuttered in July 2025 after a 70 year mine life.

Although it may have modest output compared to those at the top of the list, Australia holds the second highest copper reserves in the world at 100 million metric tons.

9. Indonesia

Copper production: 710,00 metric tons

In 2025, Indonesia produced 710,000 metric tons of copper. While the country’s output had been rising steadily in recent years, it plummeted last year from 1.01 million MT in 2024 due to an accident at the Grasberg copper-gold complex, the country’s largest copper mine.

Grasberg is a 51/48 joint venture between the Indonesian state-owned PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminium and Freeport-McMoRan.

On September 8, 2025, a sudden ingress of wet materials at the mine’s primary Grasberg Block Cave killed seven workers. While Freeport was able to restart operations at unaffected portions of Grasberg during Q4 2025, the mine is unlikely to see full production return until sometime in 2027, with the companies projecting a 600,000 MT loss of contained copper by the end of 2026.

Another of the country’s largest operations is PT Amman Mineral’s (OTCPK:AMMNF,IDX:AMMN) Batu Hijau copper-gold mine. During the first nine months of 2025, the mine produced 145 million pounds of copper in concentrate, equivalent to about 65,770 MT. This marked a 51 percent decline from the same period in 2024 as Amman’s activities transitioned to Phase 8 of the operation. The company set full year 2025 copper guidance at 103,400 MT, and projected a significant increase to 220,000 MT in 2026.

10. Kazakhstan

Copper production: 710,000 metric tons

In 2025, Kazakhstan produced 710,000 metric tons of copper, slightly lower than the 724,000 MT produced in 2024. Still, Kazakhstan’s copper output has climbed substantially in recent years; it produced just 510,000 MT in 2021.

The nation plans to continue that trend, releasing a National Development Plan in February 2024 that aims to increase mineral production by 40 percent by 2029. The plan will involve increased exploration, project co-financing and tax incentives for investment.

Among the country’s largest mining companies is private firm KAZ Minerals, which owns the Aktogay mine. According to the company’s Q3 2025 production report, the mine produced 171,600 MT of copper during the first nine months of the year, in line with the 172,200 MT produced in 2024.

10. Mexico

Copper production: 690,000 metric tons

Rounding out our list of top copper producers, Mexico produced 690,000 metric tons of copper in 2025, a decrease from 2024’s 717,000 MT.

The country’s Sonora state holds Mexico’s two largest copper mines, Buenavista mine and La Caridad. Both mines are owned by Southern Copper (NYSE:SCCO), a subsidiary of Grupo Mexico (OTC Pink:GMBXF,BMV:GMEXICOB).

According to the company’s Q4 2025 report, Buenavista produced 332,710 MT during the year, down from 348,960 MT in 2024.

Securities Disclosure: I, Dean Belder, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

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Blackrock Silver Corp. (TSXV: BRC,OTC:BKRRF) (OTCQX: BKRRF) (FSE: AHZ0) (‘Blackrock’ or the ‘Company’) is pleased to announce the issuance by the Nevada Department of Environmental Protection (NDEP), through the Bureau of Air Pollution Control, the Class II Air Quality and Surface Disturbance Permit (the ‘Permit’) for the Company’s Tonopah West mineral project (‘Tonopah West’) located along the Walker Lane Trend in Nye and Esmeralda Counties, Nevada, USA.

The Permit allows for the disturbance of up to 150 acres (60.7 Hectares) at Tonopah West with appropriate dust control measures and an ongoing program using the best practical methods to prevent particulate matter from becoming airborne. The term of the Permit is five (5) years, which can be extended and modified as Tonopah West moves toward permitting and construction of its proposed exploration decline, test mining and bulk sample extraction programs.

Data collection continues for the hydrogeological and geochemical programs that will form the basis for the Water Pollution Control Permit. Five humidity cells are in process to review acid generating potential of the waste and mineralized lithologies that will be encountered and transported to the surface during the tunneling and construction of the exploration decline including stockpiles for mineralized material mined as part of the bulk sample program.

The hydrogeological program is designed to understand the groundwater dynamics focused on potential flow and volumes to support required management and disposal as needed during the test mining and bulk sample phase of the program. Waste dump, stockpiles and portal entry engineering designs are on schedule and will be completed and used to calculate surface disturbance that will be the cornerstone for the Modification to the Nevada Reclamation Permit. The permitting process is on schedule with all permits anticipated by mid-2027. Once all permits are in hand, the Company will decide when to commence with the exploration decline, test mining and bulk sample extraction programs at Tonopah West.

Qualified Persons

Blackrock’s exploration activities at Tonopah West are conducted and supervised by Mr. William Howald, Executive Chairman of Blackrock. Mr. William Howald, AIPG Certified Professional Geologist #11041, is a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. He has reviewed and approved the contents of this news release.

About Blackrock Silver Corp.

Blackrock Silver Corp. is an American-focused emerging primary silver developer systematically advancing the high-grade Tonopah West Project, situated in the historic ‘Queen of the Silver Camps’ in a jurisdiction consistently ranked as one of the top mining regions globally. The Company is backstopped by a veteran board and technical team with a proven track record of discovering, financing, and building major precious metal mines in Nevada and globally. Blackrock is committed to establishing a secure, high-margin, domestic supply of silver and gold.

Additional information on Blackrock Silver Corp. can be found on its website at www.blackrocksilver.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Information

This news release contains ‘forward-looking statements’ and ‘forward-looking information’ (collectively, ‘forward-looking statements‘) within the meaning of Canadian and United States securities legislation, including the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements in this news release relate to, among other things: the Company’s strategic plans; the Company’s permitting initiatives at Tonopah West, including the anticipated receipt of all permits by mid-2027; the proposed commencement of an exploration decline, test mining and bulk sample extraction programs at Tonopah West; the Company’s de-risking initiatives at Tonopah West; estimates of mineral resource quantities and qualities; estimates of mineralization from drilling; geological information projected from sampling results; and the potential quantities and grades of the target zones.

These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant operational, business, economic and regulatory uncertainties and contingencies. These assumptions include, among other things: conditions in general economic and financial markets; accuracy of assay results; geological interpretations from drilling results, timing and amount of capital expenditures; performance of available laboratory and other related services; future operating costs; the historical basis for current estimates of potential quantities and grades of target zones; the availability of skilled labour and no labour related disruptions at any of the Company’s operations; no unplanned delays or interruptions in scheduled activities; all necessary permits, licenses and regulatory approvals for operations are received in a timely manner; the ability to secure and maintain title and ownership to properties and the surface rights necessary for operations; and the Company’s ability to comply with environmental, health and safety laws. The foregoing list of assumptions is not exhaustive.

The Company cautions the reader that forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results and developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements contained in this news release and the Company has made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the timing and content of work programs; results of exploration activities and development of mineral properties; the interpretation and uncertainties of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; project costs overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; availability of funds; failure to delineate potential quantities and grades of the target zones based on historical data; general market and industry conditions; and those factors identified under the caption ‘Risks Factors’ in the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form.

Forward-looking statements are based on the expectations and opinions of the Company’s management on the date the statements are made. The assumptions used in the preparation of such statements, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date the statements were made. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements included in this news release if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change, except as otherwise required by applicable law.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For Further Information, Contact:

Andrew Pollard
President and Chief Executive Officer
(604) 817-6044
info@blackrocksilver.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/286059

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Proceeds to be used to Accelerate Procurement and Component Assembly for Demonstration Facility Deployment in Iceland

Syntholene Energy CORP. (TSXV: ESAF,OTC:SYNTF) (FSE: 3DD0) (OTCQB: SYNTF) (the ‘Company’ or ‘Syntholene’) is pleased to announce that it has closed its previously announced non-brokered private placement for aggregate gross proceeds of $3,750,000 (the ‘Financing’).

We are thrilled to have successfully closed this financing, which reflects strong investor confidence in Syntholene’s technology and vision,’ said Daniel Sutton, Chief Executive Officer. ‘These proceeds will accelerate the development of our demonstration facility in Iceland as we continue to advance our mission of delivering cost-competitive, carbon-neutral synthetic fuel.’

An aggregate of 8,333,333 units (each, a ‘Unit‘) were issued at a price of $0.45 per Unit pursuant to the Financing, with each Unit comprised of one common share of the Company (a ‘Common Share‘) and one non-transferable common share purchase warrant (a ‘Warrant‘). Each Warrant is exercisable into one additional Common Share at an exercise price of $0.63 for a period of two years from the date of issuance, subject to an acceleration provision whereby the Company may accelerate the expiry date of the Warrants if the daily trading price of the Common Shares equals or exceeds $0.90 on the TSX Venture Exchange for a period of ten consecutive trading days, in which case the Warrants will expire on the 30th day after the date on which notice is given by news release (the ‘Acceleration Provision‘).

Gross proceeds from the Financing are expected to be used toward the procurement and assembly of components for the Company’s planned demonstration facility in Iceland, and toward corporate marketing initiatives, investor relations and working capital.

In connection with the Financing, the Company entered into a fiscal advisory agreement dated February 11, 2026 with Canaccord Genuity Corp. ( ‘Canaccord‘), pursuant to which the Company and Canaccord agreed to extend the right of first refusal under the agency agreement between the Company, Canaccord and other agents dated September 18, 2025 to a period ending 18 months from closing of the Financing, and for the Company to pay certain fees to Canaccord in connection with the Financing. On closing of the Financing, Canaccord was paid a cash commission of $112,032, issued 248,960 non-transferable broker warrants, 111,111 corporate finance shares and 111,111 non-transferrable corporate finance warrants. Each broker warrant is exercisable into one Common Share at $0.45 per share for a period of two years from the date of issuance. Each corporate finance warrant is exercisable into one Common Share at $0.63 per share for a period of two years from the date of issuance, subject to the Acceleration Provision.

In addition, the Company entered into a finders’ fee agreement dated March 2, 2026 with Haywood Securities Inc. (‘Haywood‘), pursuant to which the Company agreed to pay certain fees to the Canaccord in connection with the Financing. On closing of the Financing, Haywood was paid a cash commission of $7,992 and issued 17,760 non-transferrable broker warrants. Each broker warrant is exercisable into one Common Share at $0.45 per share for a period of two years from the date of issuance.

All securities issued pursuant to the Financing are subject to a statutory hold period of four months and one day from the date of issuance, in accordance with applicable securities laws. The securities offered pursuant to the Financing have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

The Financing constitutes a related party transaction within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions (‘MI 61-101‘), as certain related parties of the Company participated in the Financing as follows: John Kutsch, director and officer acquired 1,455,556 Units for $655,000, Grant Tanaka, Chief Financial Officer acquired 111,111 Units for $50,000, and Anna Pagliaro, director acquired 22,222 Units for $10,000. Pursuant to Sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, the Financing is exempt from the requirement to obtain a formal valuation and minority shareholder approval in respect of this transaction as the Company is not listed on the specified markets set out in MI 61-101 and the fair market value of the consideration from the related parties participating in the Financing is not greater than 25% of the market capitalization of the Company. The aforementioned directors disclosed their interest in the Financing to the board of directors of the Company, and the disinterested members of the board approved the Financing and related party transactions under applicable corporate law. In connection with the Financing, each investor in the Financing entered into a standard form of subscription agreement with the Company containing customary terms for a private placement of the nature of the Financing. The Company did not file a material change report in respect of the Financing at least 21 days before the closing of the Financing, which the Company deems reasonable in the circumstances in order to complete the Financing in an expeditious manner.

Early Warning Disclosure – Acquisition by John Kutsch

John Kutsch, a director of the Company, acquired 1,455,556 Units pursuant to the Financing for aggregate consideration of $655,000 representing a price of $0.45 per Unit. Immediately prior to closing of the Financing, Mr. Kutsch beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, 15,583,467 Common Shares, 543,400 Options, 100,000 RSUs and 2,386,755 deferred consideration shares (‘DCSs‘), representing approximately 22.6% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis and, assuming the settlement of all RSUs into Common Shares, exercise of all Options into Common Shares and issuance of all DCSs, approximately 25.86% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially diluted basis. Immediately following closing of the Financing, Mr. Kutsch beneficially owns, directly or indirectly, 17,039,023 Common Shares, 543,400 Options, 100,000 RSUs, 2,386,755 DCSs and 1,455,556 Warrants, representing approximately 21.96% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a non-diluted basis and, assuming the settlement of all RSUs into Common Shares, exercise of all Options and Warrants into Common Shares and issuance of all DCSs, approximately 26.23% of the issued and outstanding Common Shares on a partially diluted basis. The Common Shares held by Mr. Kutsch are held for investment purposes and were acquired for investment. Mr. Kutsch has a long-term view of the investment and may acquire additional securities of the Company either on the open market, through private acquisitions or as compensation or sell the securities on the open market or through private dispositions in the future depending on market conditions, general economic and industry conditions, the Company’s business and financial condition, reformulation of plans and/or other relevant factors. Certain securities held by Mr. Kutsch as subject to Tier 2 escrow in accordance with TSXV policies, as described in the Filing Statement dated November 30, 2025, a copy of which is filed on the Company’s profile on SEDAR+.

A copy of John Kutsch’s early warning report will be filed on the Company’s profile on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and may also be requested by mail at Syntholene Energy Corp. Suite 1723, 595 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC V7X 1J1, Attention: Corporate Secretary or phone at 604-684-6730.

About Syntholene

Syntholene is actively commercializing its novel Hybrid Thermal Production System for low-cost clean fuel synthesis. The target output is ultrapure synthetic jet fuel, manufactured at 70% lower cost than the nearest competing technology today. The company’s mission is to deliver the world’s first truly high-performance, low-cost, and carbon-neutral synthetic fuel at an industrial scale, unlocking the potential to produce clean synthetic fuel at lower cost than fossil fuels, for the first time.

Syntholene’s power-to-liquid strategy harnesses thermal energy to power proprietary integrations of hydrogen production and fuel synthesis. Syntholene has secured 20MW of dedicated energy to support the Company’s upcoming demonstration facility and commercial scale-up.

Founded by experienced operators across advanced energy infrastructure, nuclear technology, low-emissions steel refining, process engineering, and capital markets, Syntholene aims to be the first team to deliver a scalable modular production platform for cost-competitive synthetic fuel, thus accelerating the commercialization of carbon-neutral eFuels across global markets.

For further information, please contact:
Dan Sutton, CEO
comms@syntholene.com
www.syntholene.com
+1 608-305-4835

Investor Relations
KIN Communications Inc.
604-684-6730
ESAF@kincommunications.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. The use of any of the words ‘expect’, ‘anticipate’, ‘aims’, ‘continue’, ‘estimate’, ‘objective’, ‘may’, ‘will’, ‘project’, ‘should’, ‘believe’, ‘plans’, ‘intends’ and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information or statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, including but not limited to statements regarding the proposed use of proceeds of the Financing, development of the test facility, commercial scalability, technical and economic viability, anticipated geothermal power availability, anticipated benefit of eFuel, and future commercial opportunities, are forward-looking statements.

The forward-looking statements and information are based on certain key expectations and assumptions made by the Company, including without limitation the assumption that the Company will be able to execute its business plan, including that it will use the proceeds of the Financing, if any, as described herein, that the Company will be able to advance its planned test facility, that the eFuel will have its expected benefits, that there will be market adoption, and that the Company will be able to access financing as needed to fund its business plan. Although the Company believes that the expectations and assumptions on which such forward-looking statements and information are based are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on the forward-looking statements and information because the Company can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Since forward-looking statements and information address future events and conditions, by their very nature, they involve inherent risks and uncertainties.

Actual results could differ materially from those currently anticipated due to a number of factors and risks, including, without limitation, Syntholene’s ability to meet production targets, realize projected economic benefits, overcome technical challenges, secure financing, maintain regulatory compliance, manage geopolitical risks, and successfully negotiate definitive terms. Syntholene does not undertake any obligation to update or revise these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Readers are advised to exercise caution and not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRE SERVICES

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After-Tax NPV(8%) of $473M and IRR of 49% at USD $1,000/mtu WO3; Fully funded 20,000m Drill Program Underway to Expand Scale of the Borralha Project

Key Highlights:

  • Robust Economics: After-tax NPV(8%)1 of $473.4 million (USD $346.6 million) and IRR2 of 48.8% at USD $1,000/mtu WO₃3.

  • Capital Efficient Development: Initial capital4 of approximately $124.2 million (USD $91 million) with 4.2-year payback5.

  • Strong Base Case: After-tax IRR2 of 27.2% and NPV(8%)1 of $182.7 million (USD $134.0 million) at ~USD $704/mtu WO₃ (Argus long-term forecast).

  • Significant Upside Leverage: After-tax IRR2 of 78.4% and NPV(8%)1 of $963.8 million (USD $706.4 million) at USD $1,500/mtu WO₃.

  • Resource Growth Just Beginning: Fully funded 20,000-metre drill program underway at the Borralha Project targeting resource expansion and potential mine life extension well beyond the initial 11-year mine plan.

All amounts in Canadian dollars unless stated otherwise.

Vancouver, British Columbia–(Newsfile Corp. – March 2, 2026) – Allied Critical Metals Inc. (CSE: ACM,OTC:ACMIF) (OTCQB: ACMIF) (FSE: 0VJ0) (‘Allied‘ or the ‘Company‘) is pleased to announce the results of its initial Preliminary Economic Assessment (‘PEA‘) for its 100%-owned Borralha Tungsten Project (‘Borralha‘ or the ‘Project‘) in northern Portugal.

‘The completion of the PEA marks another important milestone for the Company. In addition to the significant tailwinds provided by the significant increase in the price of tungsten, which has surged to more than USD $1,900/mtu [Source: Fastmarkets], we are very pleased to see have been able to receive support from idD Portugal Defence, the Portuguese public entity overseeing the nation’s Defence Industry, which has endorsed the Borralha Project as a strategic initiative of national importance. We have also received a favourable Environmental Impact Declaration, subject to standard regulatory conditions (Declaração de Impacte Ambiental Favorável Condicionada – ‘DIA’) from the Portuguese Environment Agency (Agência Portuguesa do Ambiente, I.P. – APA),’ commented Roy Bonnell, CEO and Director of Allied. ‘We could not be more pleased with the considerable advancement of the Borralha Project and look forward to continuing to more progress at the Borralha Project and the Vila Verde Project, which are both strategic critical mineral tungsten assets well positioned within the EU.’

The PEA outlines a technically robust and capital-efficient underground tungsten development project within the European Union, delivering strong economics across a range of pricing assumptions. Importantly, the study reflects only the Santa Helena Breccia deposit and an initial 11-year mine plan. The Company is committed to long term expansion of the current resource estimate and as such has recently commenced a fully funded 20,000-metre drill program designed to expand the current resource and enhance long-term project scale.

Initial PEA Economic Summary (After-Tax) for the Borralha Project

Medium Case – USD $1,000/mtu WO₃
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$473.4 million4 48.8% 4.2 years
(USD$ 346.6 million)
Base Case – Argus Long-Term Forecast (US$677 to $763/mtu WO₃; ~USD $704/mtu WO₃ Average)
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$182.7 million4 27.2% 5.8 years
(USD$ 134.0 million)
High Case – USD $1,500/mtu WO₃
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$963.8 million4 78.4% 3.2 years
(USD$ 706.4 million)

 

Notes:
1. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV.
2. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
3. Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.
4. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.

Mine design and cut-off grade selection were developed using a conservative USD $659/mtu WO₃ assumption. Recent reported tungsten market prices have reached approximately USD $1,998/mtu [Source: Fastmarkets; February 27, 2026], demonstrating meaningful leverage to current market conditions.

Initial Mine Plan – Strong Base with Expansion Potential

  • Mine life: 11 years

  • Average annual production: ~1,708 tonnes WO₃

  • Peak annual production: 2,388 tonnes WO₃

  • Processing rate: 1.4 million tonnes per annum

  • Average mill feed grade: 0.20% WO₃

  • All-in sustaining cost (AISC)6 estimate: ~USD $303/mtu WO₃ (CAD $413.84/mtu WO₃)

The PEA mine plan incorporates Measured, Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources from the Santa Helena Breccia deposit. Mineralization remains open along strike and at depth.

The ongoing 20,000-metre drill program is targeting:

  • Expansion of the current 13.0 Mt Measured & Indicated resource

  • Conversion of Inferred resources into higher-confidence categories

  • Potential extension of mine life beyond 11 years

  • Evaluation of throughput optimization and scale growth

The Company views this initial PEA as a foundational step in what is expected to be a multi-stage growth strategy at the Borralha Project.

Roy Bonnell, CEO & Director commented, ‘This initial PEA confirms the Borralha Project as a high-return, capital-efficient tungsten development project in a Tier-1 European jurisdiction. At USD $1,000 per mtu (significantly below current reported market pricing) the Borralha Project generates a 48.8% after-tax IRR with modest initial capital of approximately USD $91 million.

Importantly, this PEA reflects only the Santa Helena Breccia and an initial 11-year mine plan. With future exploration work and the 20,000 meters of drilling currently underway, we are focused on expanding resources, extending mine life and enhancing overall project scale. We believe we are at the beginning of unlocking the Borralha Project’s full potential.

Combined with a favourable Environmental Impact Declaration, we believe that this PEA opens the door to project level financing for both our industrial scale plant and our pilot plant at the Vila Verde Project.’

Introduction

This initial PEA contemplates development of an underground mining operation at the Santa Helena Breccia deposit within Borralha with a nominal processing capacity of 1.4 million tonnes per annum, utilizing conventional crushing, grinding and gravity concentration to produce a saleable Wolframite concentrate grading approximately 65% WO₃.

The Borralha Project has received a favourable Environmental Impact Declaration (‘DIA’), materially advancing permitting and reducing development risk relative to many global tungsten projects.

Economic Summary

This initial PEA was developed using three pricing frameworks: (i) Low/Base Case: Argus long-term forecast (variable annually) averaging approx. USD $704 per mtu WO₃; (ii) USD $1,000 per mtu WO₃; and (iii) USD $1,500 per mtu WO₃.

Mine design and cut-off grade selection were developed using a conservative price assumption of USD $659 per mtu WO₃.

Table 1 — Economic Results (After-Tax)

Scenario Price1 NPV (8%)2 IRR3 Payback4
Medium $1,365/mtu
(USD $1,000/mtu)
$473.4M
(USD $346.6M)
48.8% 4.2 years
Base $962/mtu
(USD $704/mtu)
$182.7M
(USD $134.0M)
27.2% 5.8 years
High $2,049/mtu
(USD $1,500/mtu)
$963.8M
(USD $706.4M)
78.4% 3.2 years

 
Notes:
1. Prices based on Argus Media Group price forecasts. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.
2. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV. M = million.
3. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
4. Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.

The results highlight significant sensitivity to tungsten price while maintaining positive economics under conservative long-term assumptions.

For reference, current reported tungsten market prices are materially above the $1,365 per mtu (USD $1,000 per mtu) sensitivity case presented herein, reaching recently $2,729 per mtu (USD $1,998 per mtu) as at February 27, 2026 [Source: Fastmarkets.]

1. Project Overview

The Borralha Tungsten Project is located in the parish of Salto, municipality of Montalegre, district of Vila Real, Portugal. The project comprises a continuous exploitation concession area of approximately 382.48 hectares (3.82 km²).

This initial PEA has been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (‘NI 43-101‘) and is based on the updated Mineral Resource Estimate for the Santa Helena Breccia, effective December 30, 2025. See Company’s current technical report on Borralha (the ‘Technical Report‘) entitled ‘Technical Report on the Borralha Property, Parish of Salto, District of Vila Real, Portugal’, dated effective December 30, 2025, which is published on the Company’s website at www.alliedcritical.com and under its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Borralha represents one of the largest undeveloped tungsten resources within the European Union and benefits from gravity-dominant processing, reducing metallurgical risk relative to flotation-dependent systems. The project aligns with European critical raw material supply objectives.

2. Mineral Resource Estimate

This initial PEA is based on the updated Mineral Resource Estimate (‘MRE‘ or ‘2025 MRE‘) for the Santa Helena Breccia, which were presented in accordance with NI 43-101 in the Company’s current Technical Report.

Mineral Resources are reported in situ and undiluted and do not incorporate modifying factors such as mining dilution, mining recovery, metallurgical recovery, capital costs, operating costs, or economic analysis. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability.

MRE Cut-off Grade: 0.09% WO₃

The cut-off grade was selected based on reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction under conceptual underground mining and gravity-dominant processing assumptions, including a very conservative tungsten price of USD$ 550/mtu WO₃ and assumed recovery of approximately 80% (for MRE cut-off determination only). The 2025 MRE reflects a material increase in tonnage and geological confidence relative to the previous mineral resource estimate published in March 2024.

Under the 2025 MRE, the Santa Helena Breccia has been tested by 41 drill holes and surface trenching over approximately 400 meters of strike length and to depths exceeding 350 meters below surface. Mineralization remains open along strike and at depth.

Table 2 — 2025 MRE for Borralha (see also Technical Report for further details)

Classification Tonnes (Mt) Grade (% WO3)
Measured + Indicated 13.0 0.21
Inferred 7.7 0.18

 

3. Mining Method and Production Plan

3.1 Selected Mining Method

The planned mining method for the Santa Helena Breccia involves using mostly long-hole open stoping with cemented paste backfill. This method was selected based on: (i) steeply dipping geometry of the breccia-hosted mineralization; (ii) demonstrated geological continuity; (iii) favorable rock mass conditions; (iv) productivity and operating cost advantages; and (v) reduced surface footprint.

Drift-and-fill mining is incorporated locally in narrower high-grade zones to enhance resource recovery. Open-pit mining and alternative underground methods were evaluated during the conceptual study stage and were not selected due to environmental constraints, scale suitability, and relative operating efficiency.

3.2 Mine Production Schedule

Key operating parameters:

  • Nominal processing rate: 1.4 million tonnes per annum
  • Estimated mine life: approximately 11 years
  • Total life-of-mine processed tonnes: approximately 13.4 million tonnes
  • Average life-of-mine mill feed grade: approximately 0.20% WO₃

The production schedule supports consistent mill feed and stable concentrate production throughout the mine life.

Table 3 — LoM Totals and Averages

Item Amount
Mine life (production years shown) 11 years (2028–2039)
Total ore processed 13,436,040 t
Weighted average WO₃ grade 0.203% WO₃ (≈0.20%)
Total contained WO₃ 27,332 t
Total recovered WO₃ @ 75% 20,499 t
Average annual recovered WO₃ @ 75% ~1,708 t/y

 

Table 4 — Life-of-Mine Schedule Summary

Year Ore Processed (t) Avg. WO₃ Grade (%) Recovered WO₃ (t)
2028 876,304 0.19 1,249
2029 988,042 0.20 1,482
2030 1,387,624 0.18 1,873
2031 1,339,273 0.19 1,908
2032 1,362,177 0.18 1,839
2033 1,373,856 0.23 2,370
2034 1,444,646 0.21 2,275
2035 1,447,061 0.22 2,388
2036 1,236,886 0.20 1,855
2037 1,226,553 0.20 1,840
2038 585,701 0.26 1,142
2039 167,917 0.22 277

 

3.3 Dilution and Recovery Assumptions

The mine plan incorporates Measured, Indicated, and Inferred Mineral Resources within a stope optimization framework consistent with long-hole open stoping methods.

Applied modifying factors include:

  • Mining dilution: approximately 8% (average between primary and secondary stopes)
  • Mining recovery: approximately 89%
    • ~90% for primary stopes
    • ~88% for secondary stopes
  • Drift-and-fill: approximately 7.5% dilution and 95% recovery

After application of these factors, the projected average life-of-mine mill feed grade is approximately 0.20% WO₃.

The PEA includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. There is no certainty that the results of the PEA will be realized.

Inferred material represents less than approximately 40% of the life-of-mine stope inventory on a volumetric basis and is predominantly located along the margins and outer extents of the deposit.

4. Metallurgy and Processing

4.1 Metallurgical Test Work

Metallurgical test work completed to date indicates that Santa Helena Breccia mineralization is amenable to gravity-dominant processing.

The initial metallurgical program (2023–2024) evaluated crushing, grinding, sulfide flotation, gravimetric concentration, and magnetic separation. Subsequent optimization reduced reliance on flotation by incorporating dense media separation (‘DMS‘) pre-concentration and enhanced gravity recovery.

4.2 Process Flow Sheet

The proposed process plant includes:

  • Three-stage crushing to approximately 6 mm
  • DMS pre-concentration on the 6–2 mm fraction (rejecting approximately 40% of mass)
  • Grinding of DMS product and -2 mm fraction to 1 mm
  • Gravimetric concentration using spirals and shaking tables
  • Magnetic and electrostatic separation for final concentrate upgrading
  • Flotation circuit for copper and tin recovery
  • Filtered tailings with dewatering and partial paste backfill return underground

4.3 Recovery and Concentrate Grades

Preliminary metallurgical recovery estimates:

  • Tungsten: 75%
  • Copper: ~60%
  • Tin: 30%

Expected concentrate specifications:

  • Tungsten concentrate: ~65% WO₃
  • Copper concentrate: ~21% Cu
  • Tin concentrate: ~50% Sn

Silver credits may partially report to the copper concentrate, subject to further test work confirmation.

5. Infrastructure and Site Requirements

The Borralha Project benefits from:

  • Regional road access
  • Grid power availability
  • Underground mining configuration minimizing surface disturbance
  • Filtered dry-stack tailings concept
  • Closed-loop water management system

6. Environmental and Permitting

In January 2026, the Portuguese Environment Agency issued a Favourable Environmental Impact Declaration (‘DIA‘) for the Borralha Project, subject to standard regulatory conditions.

This milestone confirms environmental acceptability of the proposed development and enables progression to the RECAPE stage and subsequent construction permitting.

The Borralha Project aligns with European Union critical raw material strategy and contributes to regional economic development objectives.

7. Economic Framework

7.1 Pricing Framework

The life-of-mine design, cut-off grade selection and production schedule were developed using a conservative tungsten price assumption of USD $659 per metric tonne unit (‘mtu‘) WO₃, consistent with the Argus long-term base case forecast. The Base Case economic model applies the Argus high-case long-term forecast on a year-by-year basis, ranging from approximately USD $763 per mtu in 2028 and gradually declining toward approximately USD $677 per mtu by 2040, for an average price of approximately USD $704 per mtu. [Source: Argus Media Group.]

This approach maintains a conservative technical design basis while allowing the economic analysis to reflect updated long-term market expectations without re-optimizing mine geometry.

Flat price sensitivity scenarios at USD $1,000/mtu and USD $1,500/mtu WO₃ are presented for comparative purposes.

7.2 Operating Cost Summary

The Borralha Project is based on conventional underground mining and gravity-dominant processing, resulting in a competitive cost structure.

Life-of-mine average operating costs7 are estimated at:

  • US$49 per tonne processed
  • Equivalent to approximately USD $245 per mtu WO₃ produced (based on a 0.20% average mill feed grade and 75% metallurgical recovery)

Operating cost components include:

  • Underground mining
  • Processing and plant operations
  • General and administrative costs
  • Site services and infrastructure support

The cost structure incorporates modifying factors of approximately 8% mining dilution, 89% mining recovery, and 75% metallurgical recovery.

7.3 All-In Sustaining Cost (AISC)

The Project’s estimated all-in sustaining cost8, inclusive of sustaining capital and site-level costs, is approximately: USD $303 per mtu WO₃.

This positions the Borralha Project competitively within the global tungsten cost curve.

7.4 Capital Costs

The PEA estimates capital costs9 as follows:

  • Initial capital cost: approximately USD $91 million (CAD $124.3 million)
  • Sustaining capital: approximately USD $87 million (CAD $118.8 million)
  • Total life-of-mine capital: approximately USD $178 million (CAD $243.1 million)

Capital estimates are preliminary in nature and carry an accuracy range of ±35%, consistent with PEA-level studies.

7.5 Economic Metrics (After-Tax)

Medium Case – USD $1,000/mtu WO₃
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$473.4 million 48.8% 4.2 years
(USD$ 346.6 million)
Base Case – Argus Long-Term Forecast (US$677 to $763/mtu WO₃; ~USD $704/mtu WO₃ Average)
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$182.7 million 27.2% 5.8 years
(USD$ 134.0 million)
High Case – USD $1,500/mtu WO₃
NPV(8%)1 IRR2 Payback3
$963.8 million 78.4% 3.2 years
(USD$ 706.4 million)

 

Notes:
1. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV.
2. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
3. Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.
4. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.

Mine design and cut-off grade selection were developed using a conservative USD $659/mtu WO₃ assumption. Recent reported tungsten market prices have reached approximately USD $1,998/mtu [Source: Fastmarkets; February 27, 2026], demonstrating meaningful leverage to current market conditions.

7.6 Sensitivity Analysis

Sensitivity analysis demonstrates that Project economics are most sensitive to: (i) tungsten price; (ii) capital costs; (iii) operating costs; and (iv) metallurgical recovery.

The Project retains positive economics across a range of tungsten price assumptions. At the Base Case price assumption, the Project generates robust operating margins, with significant leverage to higher tungsten price scenarios.

The Project demonstrates strong leverage to tungsten price. The following sensitivity analysis illustrates the post-tax IRR and NPV (8%) across a flat tungsten price range of USD $500 to USD $1,700 per mtu WO₃.

Figure 1 — After-Tax NPV (8%) and IRR Sensitivity to Tungsten Price

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11632/285820_ede9ceca64ea6a8e_001full.jpg

Notes: IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV.

8. Growth and Expansion Opportunities

Mineralization at the Santa Helena Breccia remains open along strike and at depth, providing potential for future Mineral Resource expansion through additional drilling. The current underground mine design is based on the defined Mineral Resource; however, further infill and step-out drilling may support resource conversion and potential extension of mine life. The process plant has been designed at a nominal throughput of 1.4 Mtpa. Subject to further engineering studies and market conditions, the plant layout may allow for future throughput expansion. Selective mining and continued geological refinement may enhance grade control and support optimization of the life-of-mine grade profile.

9. Strategic Positioning

The Borralha Project represents one of the largest undeveloped tungsten resources within the European Union and is positioned to contribute to European supply chain security for this designated critical raw material. The combination of underground mining, gravity-dominant processing and significant permitting advancement materially reduces technical and development risk relative to many global tungsten development projects.

The favourable Environmental Impact Declaration (DIA) provides regulatory clarity and supports advancement toward the next stage of engineering and feasibility.

10. Project Risks and Uncertainties

This initial PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have economic considerations applied that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. There is no certainty that the results of the PEA will be realized.

Key risks and uncertainties include:

  • Inclusion of Inferred Mineral Resources within the mine plan
  • Variability in tungsten price and foreign exchange rates
  • Capital cost escalation and schedule risk
  • Metallurgical recovery variability
  • Underground geotechnical and hydrogeological conditions
  • Regulatory and permitting timelines
  • Availability of equipment and human resources

11. Recommended Work Program

The Company intends to advance Borralha toward the next stage of engineering through:

  • Infill drilling to upgrade Inferred Mineral Resources to higher confidence categories
  • Step-out drilling to expand Mineral Resources and potentially extend mine life.
  • Additional metallurgical optimization and variability testing
  • Detailed geotechnical and hydrogeological investigations
  • Engineering advancement toward a Pre-Feasibility Study
  • Ongoing permitting and RECAPE progression

These activities are intended to further de-risk the Borralha Project and support advancement toward a Feasibility Study.

12. Quality Control

The Company has implemented a comprehensive and well-documented quality assurance and quality control (‘QA/QC‘) program consistent with industry best practices. Drill core and reverse circulation samples were prepared at ISO-accredited ALS Global facilities in Seville, Spain, and analyzed at ALS Global’s certified laboratory in Loughrea, Ireland, using XRF methods for tungsten (W-XRF05 and W-XRF10), with routine internal laboratory QA/QC procedures including pulp duplicates. The Company inserted certified reference materials (‘CRMs‘), blank samples, and field duplicates into the sample stream at regular intervals, including one CRM every 20 routine samples and two blanks per analytical batch.

Five independent CRMs covering multiple grade ranges were used. Samples exceeding ±3 standard deviations from expected CRM values, or blanks exceeding three times detection limits, triggered re-assay of the affected batch. Reverse circulation samples were weighed to monitor recovery and reject materials were securely stored. Independent verification sampling by a Qualified Person confirmed the reliability of the analytical database. The Qualified Persons are satisfied that the QA/QC procedures and resulting analytical data are appropriate for use in the Mineral Resource Estimate and the PEA.

13. Qualified Persons

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release has been reviewed and approved by the following Qualified Persons, as defined under NI 43-101:

J. Douglas Blanchflower, P.Geo.

Mr. Blanchflower is an independent Qualified Person under NI 43-101 and was retained by Allied Critical Metals Inc. to prepare the NI 43-101 Technical Report dated effective December 30, 2025. He has overall responsibility for the 2025 MRE and the Technical Report. Mr. Blanchflower is a Registered Professional Geoscientist in good standing with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of British Columbia (No. 19086) and has more than five decades of experience in mineral exploration, resource estimation, and technical reporting. Mr. Blanchflower has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release relating to the mineral resource estimate.

David Castro López, BSc, MIMMM, QMR

Mr. Castro López is a Mining Engineer and a Professional Member (MIMMM #685484) and Qualified for Minerals Reporting (QMR) of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM3). He is independent of the Company and the Borralha Project. Mr. Castro López contributed to the metallurgical review and process design considerations supporting the PEA and takes responsibility for the metallurgical and mineral processing information contained herein. Mr. López has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release relating to the metallurgical and mineral processing information contained herein.

Miguel Cabal, EurGeol, Licensed Geologist

Mr. Cabal is a licensed geologist with the European Federation of Geologists (EuroGeol #1439) with over 28 years of experience in mineral exploration, resource evaluation and mine development. He is Managing Director of Geomates (Spain) and has contributed to multiple NI 43-101 and JORC-compliant technical reports, including PEA, PFS and feasibility studies. Mr. Cabal is independent of Allied Critical Metals Inc. and the Borralha Project and has reviewed and approved the mining and economic components of the PEA. Mr. Cabal has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release relating to the mining and economic components of this news release.

Vítor Arezes, BSc, MIMMM, QMR

Mr. Arezes is Vice President Exploration of Allied Critical Metals Inc. and a Qualified Person under NI 43-101. He is not independent of the Company due to his role as an officer. Mr. Arezes has extensive experience in tungsten and polymetallic mineral systems and has conducted multiple site visits to the Borralha Project, including during the 2025 drilling campaign. He contributed to geological interpretation, exploration oversight, and technical review supporting the PEA. He is a member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (MIMMM #703197) and a Qualified Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves Professional (QMR), and by reason of education, professional experience, and accreditation, meets the definition of a Qualified Person as defined in NI 43-101. Mr. Arezes has reviewed and approved all of the scientific and technical information in this news release.

Figure 2 — South – North longitudinal section on mine design at Sta. Helena Breccia

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https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11632/285820_ede9ceca64ea6a8e_002full.jpg

Figure 3 — East – West transversal section on mine design at Sta. Helena Breccia

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https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11632/285820_ede9ceca64ea6a8e_003full.jpg

About Allied Critical Metals Inc.

Allied Critical Metals Inc. is a Canadian-based mining company focused on the advancement and revitalization of its 100%-owned Borralha Tungsten Project and the Vila Verde Tungsten Project in northern Portugal.

The Borralha Project is one of the largest undeveloped tungsten resources within the European Union and benefits from a favourable Environmental Impact Declaration (DIA), positioning the Project for advancement toward feasibility and development. Vila Verde represents additional exploration upside within the same strategic jurisdiction.

Tungsten has been designated a critical raw material by the United States and the European Union due to its strategic importance in defense, aerospace, manufacturing, automotive, electronics and energy applications. Currently, China, Russia and North Korea account for approximately 87% of global tungsten supply and reserves, highlighting the importance of secure western sources.

Further details regarding the Borralha Project are available in the Company’s NI 43-101 Technical Report dated December 30, 2025, filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company’s website at www.alliedcritical.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

‘Roy Bonnell’
CEO and Director

Additional information is also available by contacting the Company:

Dave Burwell
Vice President, Corporate Development
daveb@alliedcritical.com
Tel:403-410-7907
Toll Free: 1-800-221-0915

Please also visit our website at www.alliedcritical.com.

Also visit us at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/allied-critical-metals-inc/
X: https://x.com/@alliedcritical/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alliedcriticalmetals/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alliedcriticalmetals/

The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains ‘forward-looking information’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws (‘FLI‘). FLI in this release includes, without limitation, statements regarding: (A) the PEA results and economic indicators (e.g., NPV, IRR, payback and related sensitivities); (B) the conceptual mine plan and operating framework (mining approach, processing rates, production profiles, cost ranges and schedules); (C) the technical basis and process assumptions (cut-off approach, flowsheet concept and anticipated concentrate specifications); (D) the status and trajectory of permitting and approvals, infrastructure access and other site requirements; (E) market-related assumptions and the Project’s sensitivity and leverage to commodity pricing; (F) growth, conversion and expansion opportunities, including planned drilling and other technical programs; (G) the anticipated sequence of future studies, potential financing pathways and indicative timelines; and (H) the Project’s strategic positioning relative to regional and policy objectives. Such FLI is identified by, among other things, words such as ‘plans’, ‘expects’, ‘is expected’, ‘aims’, ‘budget’, ‘scheduled’, ‘estimates’, ‘forecasts’, ‘intends’, ‘anticipates’, ‘potential’, ‘target’, ‘opportunity’, ‘may’, ‘could’, ‘would’, ‘might’, ‘will’ and similar terminology, as well as statements regarding outcomes that ‘will’, ‘should’ or ‘would’ occur.

Material assumptions underlying the FLI include, but are not limited to: the accuracy of the 2025 MRE; geological continuity; the PEA-level capital/operating cost estimates (with typical PEA accuracy ranges); metallurgical recoveries and process performance consistent with test results to date; availability of labour, equipment and consumables at quoted/priced levels; access to grid power and water on contemplated terms; the ability to obtain land access, permits and approvals (including RECAPE) in a timely manner; tungsten pricing consistent with Argus long-term forecasts or stated sensitivity cases; foreign exchange and inflation consistent with study inputs; and availability of financing on acceptable terms. The Company believes these assumptions are reasonable as of the date hereof, but no assurance can be given that they will prove correct.

The PEA is preliminary in nature and includes Inferred Mineral Resources that are considered too speculative geologically to have the economic considerations applied to them that would enable them to be categorized as Mineral Reserves. There is no certainty that the PEA results will be realized. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. Any reference to potential production, mine life, NPV, IRR, payback, costs, recoveries, or other economic or technical parameters is preliminary and conceptual.

Key risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by the FLI include, but are not limited to: (i) exploration, geological, modelling and grade-continuity risks, including the risk that further work does not confirm Inferred material or resource extensions; (ii) risks that metallurgical performance, WO₃ recoveries, concentrate quality or processing costs differ from test work and assumptions; (iii) capital cost escalation, schedule delays, contractor availability and supply-chain constraints; (iv) operating cost inflation (power, reagents, labour, transportation); (v) commodity price and FX volatility (including sustained periods below the Argus long-term or sensitivity prices assumed); (vi) permitting, environmental, social, community, land access and regulatory risks in Portugal (including RECAPE outcomes and permit conditions); (vii) water, tailings and geotechnical/hydrogeological risks inherent in underground operations; (viii) offtake, marketing and market-access risks for tungsten concentrates; (ix) availability and cost of equity, debt or project finance on acceptable terms; (x) changes in laws, regulations, taxes, royalties, or government policies; and (xi) other risks described under ‘Business Risks’ in the Company’s most recent MD&A and in other continuous disclosure filings available on SEDAR+. Readers are urged to carefully review those risk factors, which are expressly incorporated by reference into this cautionary note.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The Company has included certain non-GAAP financial measures in this press release. These financial measures are not defined under International Financial Reporting Standards (‘IFRS‘) and should not be considered in isolation. The Company believes that these financial measures, together with financial measures determined in accordance with IFRS, provide investors with an improved ability to evaluate the underlying performance of the Company. The inclusion of these financial measures is meant to provide additional information and should not be used as a substitute for performance measures prepared in accordance with IFRS. These financial measures are not necessarily standard and therefore may not be comparable to other issuers.

Net Present Value (NPV) – is the present value calculation of net profit from operations determined using a particular discount rate. All NPV values stated herein are on an after tax basis.

Internal Rate of Return (IRR) – is a financial metric used to assess an investment’s profitability by calculating the annual rate of return that makes the NPV of all cash flows (both positive and negative) equal to zero.

Payback – is calculated in years as the length of time that it takes to pay off the capital costs from annual net profit expected from operations at the Borralha Project.

Initial capital – is the initial capital cost amount required to be expended to construct the mine and tungsten concentrator process equipment and buildings to begin processing mineralized material into saleable tungsten concentrate at commercial quantities according to the life of mine plan at the Borralha Project. This is an estimate accurate to +/-35%.

Sustaining capital – is a supplementary financial measure which reflects cash basis expenditures which are expected to maintain operations and sustain production levels at the Borralha Project.

Capital costs – include the Initial capital and the sustaining capital.

Operating costs – are the costs required to process mineralized material into saleable tungsten concentrate at the Borralha Project. This includes: underground mining; processing and plant operations; general and administrative costs; and site services and infrastructure support. This can be calculated on the unit basis per mtu WO3 produced.

All-In Sustaining Costs (AISC) – are comprised of sustaining capital expenditures and site level costs to support ongoing operations and closure costs. All-in sustaining costs per mtu WO3 is calculated as AISC divided by the amount of mtu WO3 produced during the period that the costs are incurred. All-in sustaining costs capture the important components of the Company’s production and related costs and are used by the Company and investors to understand projected cost performance at the Borralha Project.

1 NPV(8%) = net present value at a 8% discount rate. NPV is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding NPV. USD = United States dollars. Canadian dollar (CAD) equivalents calculated used a foreign exchange rate of CAD $1.3658/USD.
2 IRR = internal rate of return. IRR is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding IRR.
3 mtu/WO3 = metric tonne unit of tungsten; WO3 is tungsten trioxide.
4 Initial capital is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding initial capital.
5 Payback is a Non-GAAP measure. see notes below for additional information regarding payback.
6 All-in sustaining cost (AISC); AISC is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding AISC.
7 Operating costs are a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding operating costs.
8 All-in sustaining costs (AISC) is a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding AISC.
9 Capital costs are a Non-GAAP measure; see notes below for additional information regarding capital costs.

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