Vast Resources (VAST) reported improved third-quarter performance from its Aprelevka joint venture in Tajikistan, with gold production rising 5% quarter on quarter as higher throughput and stronger ore grades supported output.
The company, which holds a 49% beneficial interest in Aprelevka, said gold production increased to 2,701 ounces in the quarter ended 30 September 2026, from 2,580 ounces in Q2. Throughput rose 21% to 207,789 tonnes, while ore mined increased 14% to 65,796 tonnes.
The average gold grade of ore mined improved 12% to 1.102 grams per tonne, reflecting higher grades across all four mining areas. Kyzylcheku recorded particularly strong growth, with tonnes mined rising 66% and its average gold grade increasing 30%.
Meanwhile, Kansai Tailings mined increased 44% to 137,964 tonnes, although the average gold grade fell 19% to 0.425 grams per tonne. Vast said this reflected the planned processing of lower-grade material as the tailings area is emptied ahead of the commissioning of the Soviet Tailings pilot flotation plant.
Silver production decreased 3% to 23,603 ounces during the quarter.
Upgrades completed at the existing processing plant in early Q3 helped increase throughput, with Vast expecting the improvements to support higher gold production during Q4 once the remaining lower-grade Kansai Tailings material has been processed.
The Soviet Tailings pilot flotation plant is also moving towards commissioning in Q4. Refurbishment of all 28 flotation cells, electrical works, thickeners and plumbing have been completed, while the main outstanding equipment is expected to be transported to site in November.
A 152-hole drilling programme at the Soviet Tailings has also been completed. Assaying is scheduled for Q4 and will support a maiden Mineral Resource Estimate.
Vast Resources’ Chief Executive Officer Andrew Prelea said: “Aprelevka delivered improved operational performance in Q3, with higher throughput, stronger ore grades and increased gold production, despite the impact of processing lower-grade tailings during the period. Looking ahead, the improvements made to the processing plant provide a good platform for Q4, while at Soviet Tailings we are approaching an important stage, with the pilot flotation plant nearing commissioning and drilling for the maiden Mineral Resource Estimate now complete. Our focus is on maintaining this momentum as we advance all areas of the project.”
View from Vox
Higher throughput, improved ore grades and increased gold production point to continued operational progress at Aprelevka. The planned commissioning of the Soviet Tailings pilot plant and upcoming maiden Mineral Resource Estimate provide additional potential catalysts in Q4.