Anglo Asian Mining has appointed Worley Europe, part of Worley Group, to carry out feasibility studies for its Xarxar and Garadag deposits in Azerbaijan.
This development marks a step towards evaluating processes for copper heap leach processing and solvent extraction-electrowinning for the deposits, which would allow on-site production of copper metal rather than exporting copper concentrate for smelting and refining
The feasibility studies for the Xarxar and Garadag deposits are scheduled for completion by mid-2027 and the first half of 2028 (H1 2028), respectively. This initiative represents the first proposal for copper metal production directly within Azerbaijan by Anglo Asian or any other entity. In addition to the feasibility studies, Anglo Asian Mining has outlined a substantial drilling programme for 2026 and 2027, aiming to encompass approximately 90,000m in total.
This will be divided between 55,000m for exploration and 35,000m dedicated to feasibility study support. Operations have commenced at Xarxar with two rigs, while exploration at Garadag is expected to start in the third quarter of 2026. The exploration efforts will concentrate on identifying extensions at Xarxar, Garadag and neighbouring areas, as well as continued drilling in the Gedabek contract area and potential extensions at the Demirli mine and Demirli South.