Wedoany.com Report-Dec.18, Orvana Minerals has commenced the phased restart of its Don Mario processing plant in Bolivia.

The copper circuit, part of the plant's expansion, is set to be commissioned in the second half of January 2026.

Through its Bolivian subsidiary, Empresa Minera Paitití (EMIPA), the company has activated the initial stage by resuming operations in the comminution and thickening circuits. These sections now provide material to the gold-silver processing line.

Testing of these circuits' performance will continue through mid-January 2026. Commissioning of the copper circuit, added as part of the facility expansion, is scheduled for the second half of January.

A gradual increase in activity across all circuits is planned from February to April 2026.

The expansion includes new installations for copper oxide treatment, incorporating acid leaching, filtration, solvent extraction, and electrowinning processes to produce copper cathodes.

Upgrades are also underway for the gold-silver and detoxification circuits to improve capacity and operational efficiency.

The project further involves thorough refurbishment of the existing comminution and thickening areas, alongside preparations to ensure operational readiness.

These preparations encompass enhancements to power supply systems, laboratories, storage facilities, and maintenance areas, as well as hiring and training of staff.

EMIPA is presently carrying out final pilot testing on site in parallel with commissioning work.

Upon conclusion, the outcomes from this testing, together with prior metallurgical information, will allow the company to refine its projections for metal recovery from the oxide stockpiles at Don Mario.

Updated production guidance will be issued once the results are confirmed.

Orvana CEO Juan Gavidia said: "The restart of the Don Mario plant represents an important milestone for Orvana as we advance the commissioning of our expanded processing facilities. Our focus remains on executing a disciplined and phased start-up designed to manage commissioning risk, validate plant performance and position the operation for a controlled ramp-up in 2026."

Orvana operates as a multi-mine organization with interests in gold, copper, and silver. Its assets include the active Orovalle mine in northern Spain, the Don Mario complex in Bolivia, and the Taguas project in Argentina.

This methodical restart approach prioritizes safety and reliability while transitioning the facility to full multi-metal processing capability. The additions enable treatment of previously stockpiled oxides, extending the operational life of the site through diversified output.

By incorporating modern extraction methods, the upgraded plant is designed to achieve efficient recovery of both precious and base metals. Ongoing testing supports data-driven adjustments to optimize throughput and yields.

The project reflects sustained investment in the Bolivian operation, aiming to establish stable production following the restart. Management emphasizes careful progression to ensure long-term performance meets expectations.

As commissioning advances, the facility moves closer to contributing copper cathodes alongside continued gold and silver doré output. This development strengthens Orvana's production profile across its international portfolio.