21 May 2013
CENTRAL ASIA METALS PLC
("CAML" or the "Company")
Production Update
Kounrad achieves its first 10,000 tonnes of copper production
Central Asia Metals plc (AIM:CAML), a copper producing company focused on base metals in Central Asia, today announces a production update for its Kounrad SX-EW plant in Kazakhstan.
Highlights:
§ 10,000 tonnes of copper produced in just over 12 months since operations started
§ Record monthly production achieved in April 2013 of 1,114 tonnes of copper
§ Kounrad Q1 2013 production of 1,675 tonnes of copper, exceeding planned levels by 26%
Kounrad
Kounrad's total production output since the start of operations at the end of April 2012 has now exceeded 10,000 tonnes. This was achieved over a period that included the commissioning, ramp-up and the first winter of operations during which severe weather conditions were experienced. Kounrad's operational capability during all weather conditions, especially the winter months, is well demonstrated.
In April 2013, production of 1,114 tonnes of copper sets a new record for monthly output at Kounrad.
Kounrad Q1 2013 production of 1,675 tonnes of copper exceeded the planned 1,322 tonnes by 26%.
Nick Clarke, Chief Executive Officer, commented:
"We are pleased to have reached a total production of 10,000 tonnes of copper at Kounrad, following a new record for monthly output in April. Kounrad is operating beyond our expectations and production achieved for 2012 and Q1 2013 is testament to this fact.
We have been able to maintain steady-state production in challenging weather conditions and look forward to achieving our target of 10,000 tonnes for 2013."
Enquiries:
Central Asia Metals plc Nick Clarke +44 (0) 20 7898 9001
Nigel Robinson
Canaccord Genuity Limited Andrew Chubb +44 (0)20 7253 8000
Mirabaud Securities LLP Peter Krens +44 (0)20 7878 3362
Pelham Bell Pottinger Charles Vivian +44 (0)20 7861 3232
Lorna Spears
Notes to Editors
Central Asia Metals plc ("CAML" or the "Company") is an AIM-listed UK company based in London. Its countries of operation are Kazakhstan and Mongolia. CAML is a copper production, precious and base metals exploration and development company with majority stakes in copper, gold and molybdenum projects. The Company announced its maiden dividend in December 2012.