Terramin Australia has initiated site preparation works at the Tala Hamza Zinc Project in Algeria, marking a significant step forward following the resolution of earlier land access challenges.
Located 15km from Bejaia on Algeria’s Mediterranean coast, the project has an estimated mineral resource of 53 million tonnes (mt) at 5.3% zinc and 1.3% lead.
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The land designated for the Tala Hamza mining operations was secured by Algerian Government agencies specifically for the project.
The acquisition cost, estimated at around $30m (AD3.98bn), reflects a substantial financial investment by the Algerian Government.
Terramin’s September and December 2025 quarterly reports detailed delays in activities such as geotechnical drilling due to the need to relocate residents within the project area.
With these relocations now complete, access restrictions have been lifted, allowing for the commencement of on-ground work.
Initial site activities at Tala Hamza include access and clearing operations, establishment of operational zones and early ground preparations near planned infrastructure sites.
These efforts signal progression from planning to tangible project development, with further geotechnical work expected to support the final underground mine design.
Terramin possesses a 49% interest in the project via its shares in Bejaia Zinc & Lead Spa (BZL) and retains the rights to manage it.
The project is set for an operational life of 20 years based on current studies, leveraging existing infrastructure such as nearby ports and railways.
Next steps for Terramin involve continued site preparation, advancement of geotechnical and engineering tasks, and ongoing collaboration with government officials and stakeholders to further development plans.
Terramin executive chair Bruce Sheng said: “The commencement of site preparation at Tala Hamza marks an important milestone. The resolution of land access constraints, which have hindered progress in recent quarters, now allows us to move forward with on-the-ground activities.
“With site access now secured, the focus shifts to execution as we advance the project towards development readiness.”
