Imperial Metals (TSX:III) has reported Red Chris Mine produced 17.92 million pounds (8,128 tonnes) of copper in Q2, down 24% year-on-year.
The British Columbia operation also delivered 14,591 ounces of gold during the quarter, a 36% decline from 22,624 ounces produced in the same period of 2025.
Imperial holds a 30% stake in Red Chris, giving the company 5.38 million pounds (Mlbs) of copper (Cu) and 4,377 ounces of gold (Au) from the quarter’s production.
Decrease in copper production resulted from an 18% drop in grade to 0.45% from 0.55% in the prior-year quarter, despite higher recovery rates and lower throughput.
Gold production declined due to lower mill feed grades of 0.35 grams per tonne compared with 0.49g/t Au in Q2 2025, alongside reduced throughput. Gold recovery remained similar at 59.4% versus 60.0%.
Despite the quarterly declines, Imperial maintains its 2026 production guidance for Red Chris at 60–66Mlbs Cu and 47,500–52,500 ounces Au on a 100% basis.
The company continues to advance a Feasibility Study (FS) for a block cave expansion at Red Chris.
Imperial has secured key permits, with approval from the British Columbia Government and Tahltan First Nation.
III expects to complete the FS in H2 2026, with joint venture approval subject to study outcomes.
Imperial Metals also operates the Mount Polley and Huckleberry mines in British Columbia and maintains a portfolio of 20 greenfield exploration properties across the province.
Write to JC Villarba at Mining.com.au
Images: Imperial Metals
