Taseko Mines harvests first copper cathodes at Florence

Executive Summary

• Taseko Mines Ltd. has harvested its first copper cathodes at the Florence Copper operation in Arizona, marking the first new copper production from a greenfield facility in the United States since 2008.
• The production utilizes ISCR (in situ copper recovery), a unique low-cost method with environmental advantages over conventional mining.
• Upon reaching nameplate capacity, Taseko will become the third-largest copper cathode producer in America, with an expected minimum production of 1.5 billion pounds of copper over the next 22 years.

Key Details

• Milestone: First copper cathodes harvested from the recently completed commercial production facility at Florence Copper.
• Production Capacity: Nameplate capacity is 85 million pounds of LME Grade A copper metal per year.
• Long-Term Outlook: The operation is expected to produce a minimum of 1.5 billion pounds of copper over the next 22 years.
• Market Position: Once at nameplate capacity, Taseko will become the third-largest copper cathode producer in the United States.
• Technology: The site is the first greenfield site globally to employ ISCR (in situ copper recovery), described as a low-cost method with compelling environmental advantages.
• Strategic Context: Production supports U.S. manufacturing and supply chain security for sectors including automotive, semiconductor, defense/aerospace, and AI data centers. All produced copper will remain in the United States.
• Project Status: Construction was completed on time and on budget following extensive test work and permitting.

Notable Quotes

• "The production of first copper in Arizona represents a landmark achievement for the Florence copper team and a major milestone for Taseko as we continue our journey to become a leading North American copper producer." — Stuart McDonald, President and CEO
• "Producing LME Grade A copper cathode for America's manufacturing sector... will meaningfully strengthen U.S. manufacturing and supply chain security." — Stuart McDonald
• "The journey to first production at Florence copper... is a testament to the resourcefulness, purpose and commitment of the entire Taseko team." — Stuart McDonald