Vast Resources plc (AIM: VAST), a mining company with significant production and development assets in Tajikistan and Romania, has released its production results for the third quarter of 2026 (Q3 2026) from the Aprelevka Joint Venture (Aprelevka JV), where the company holds a 49% beneficial interest. The results indicate a robust operational performance, with several key metrics showing substantial increases compared to the previous quarter.
Notably, the amount of Kansai Tailings mined surged by 44% quarter-on-quarter to reach 137,964 tonnes, while ore mined increased by 14% to 65,796 tonnes. The throughput also saw a commendable rise of 21%, amounting to 207,789 tonnes milled. Gold production rose by 5% to 2,701 ounces, although silver production experienced a slight decline of 3%, totalling 23,603 ounces. The average gold grade of ore mined improved by 12% to 1.102 grams per tonne, reflecting enhanced ore quality across the mining areas, despite a decrease in the average gold grade of Kansai Tailings by 19% due to the planned processing of lower-grade material.
The Aprelevka JV operates across four gold mining areas along the Tien Shan Belt in Tajikistan, namely Aprelevka, Burgunda, Ikkizelon, and Kyzylcheku. The company is also advancing the commissioning of a pilot flotation plant for Soviet-era tailings, which is expected to be operational in the fourth quarter of 2026. This initiative is part of the company’s strategy to reprocess tailings that contain a non-JORC estimated 235,006 to 331,191 ounces of gold and significant quantities of silver.
CEO Andrew Prelea expressed optimism about the operational improvements achieved in Q3, highlighting the increased throughput and ore grades as a solid foundation for future production. The company is also in the process of reviewing its board and management structures to align with its expanded operations and strategic goals.
As part of its ongoing efforts, Vast Resources has engaged an internationally recognised mining consultancy to prepare an independent Mineral Resource Estimate for the Soviet Tailings, which is anticipated to be reported in accordance with the JORC Code (2012). The company aims to maintain momentum in production and exploration as it progresses through the final quarter of 2026, with a focus on optimising its mining operations and exploring new areas for potential resource development.
