Imperial Metals' Red Chris produces 18.98 Mlb Cu in Q1

Executive Summary

• Imperial Metals Corp. reported first-quarter 2026 production figures for its 30% interest in the Red Chris mine, showing a year-over-year decline in both copper and gold output.
• Despite the decline, production levels remained in line with the company's 2026 budget, and full-year guidance remains unchanged.
• The decrease in production was attributed to lower ore grades and reduced throughput, partially offset by improved recovery rates.

Key Details

• Red Chris Mine Production (100% Interest):
  • Copper: 18,982,000 pounds (down 18% from Q1 2025).
  • Gold: 20,108 ounces (down 7% from Q1 2025).
• Imperial Metals' Share (30% Interest):
  • Copper: 5,695,000 pounds.
  • Gold: 6,032 ounces.
• Year-over-Year Comparison (Q1 2025 vs. Q1 2026):
  • Copper: 23,126,000 pounds vs. 18,982,000 pounds.
  • Gold: 21,663 ounces vs. 20,108 ounces.
• Operational Drivers for Decline:
  • Copper grade decreased by 16% (0.52% in Q1 2026 vs. 0.62% in Q1 2025).
  • Gold grade in mill feed decreased (0.49 g/t in Q1 2026 vs. 0.54 g/t in Q1 2025).
  • Throughput was lower in Q1 2026.
  • Copper recovery was higher in Q1 2026.
  • Gold recovery improved to 64.9% in Q1 2026, compared to 60.5% in Q1 2025.
• 2026 Full-Year Guidance (Red Chris, 100%):
  • Copper: 60 million to 66 million pounds.
  • Gold: 47,500 to 52,500 ounces.
• Qualified Person: Steve Robertson, PGeo, Vice-President, Corporate Development, reviewed the disclosures in accordance with National Instrument 43-101.

Notable Quotes

• "Both copper and gold production were, however, in line with the budgeted 2026 production, and the guidance for 2026 Red Chris production (100 per cent) remains 60 million to 66 million pounds of copper and 47,500 to 52,500 ounces of gold."