Andrada Mining Sees Production Surge Amid Strategic Expansion Plans
Andrada Mining, listed on AIM and operating in Namibia, has marked a significant 14% quarter-on-quarter increase in saleable tantalum concentrate production to 9 tonnes for the first quarter of its 2025 financial year.
This growth is part of the company’s latest operational update released on June 21, which also highlighted positive developments across its tin production and operational efficiency.
During the quarter ended May 31, Andrada processed 237,976 tonnes of ore, up from 217,189 tonnes in the same period last year, reflecting a proactive approach to scaling operations.
Tin concentrate production rose to 364 tonnes, with contained tin increasing to 223 tonnes, supported by improved plant availability of 93% compared to 91% in the previous year.
Financially, Andrada reported a rise in the realised tin price to $30,839 per tonne of contained tin, up from $25,149 in the prior comparable quarter.
Despite facing new royalty charges and rising mining costs, management has maintained cost guidance and expects stable performance throughout the year, driven by operational enhancements and ongoing initiatives like the pre-concentration circuit and Continuous Improvement 2 (CI2) programs.
CEO Anthony Viljoen expressed optimism regarding future prospects, citing reduced stripping ratios and expanded tin production capabilities as strategic advantages.
The company is actively exploring partnership opportunities beyond its Uis mining license, leveraging its diverse mineral portfolio.
Looking ahead, Andrada plans to integrate a lithium pilot plant into its existing tin processing facilities, aiming to boost petalite production to between 40,000 and 50,000 tonnes per year. This initiative aligns with efforts to optimize resource utilization and enhance overall operational efficiency.
Additionally, Andrada highlighted market dynamics affecting its business, including increasing tantalum prices due to supply disruptions in the Democratic Republic of Congo and ongoing negotiations with Bank Windhoek for funding agreements to support its growth initiatives.
Despite challenges such as temporary plant outages and financial adjustments, Andrada remains committed to sustainable growth and operational excellence in the mining sector.
