Queensland Pacific Metals Limited (QPM) has entered into a binding ore supply agreement with Mai Kouaoua Mines (MKM) to boost its presence in New Caledonia and strengthen its relationship with its partners in the region.
Specifically, QPM has contracted up to 2.1 million wet metric tonnes (wmt) of nickel ore for the Townsville Energy Chemicals Hub (TECH) Project, providing it with the flexibility and security to meet nameplate capacity requirements of 1.6 wmt per annum.
Additionally, the company announced additional diversifications to existing ore supply agreements with Societe Le Nickel, Societe des Mines de la Tontouta and Societe Miniere Georges Montagnat.
The agreement will have a term of 10 years, indicatively commencing in 2024.
Exports from MKM to QPM will be subject to prior authorisation by the New Caledonian government.
QPM Managing Director Stephen Grocott said the company is looking forward to working with MKM and other New Caledonian mining companies to boost its clean ore supply.
“We now have agreements with four mining companies in New Caledonia, strengthening our ties to the country and increasing our security of ore supply,” he added.
Meanwhile, MKM General Manager Christian Taupua said the possibility that QPM can accommodate nickel ore from New Caledonia serves as an opportunity for all Caledonian miners.
“Our company is happy to contribute to the establishment of an innovative metallurgical plant in its process and respectful of social and environmental rules,” Taupua noted.
