Challenger Gold paves pathway to Hualilán gold production - Mining.com.au

AI desk brief

Challenger Gold has set out a pathway to bring its Hualilán gold project in San Juan, Argentina, into commercial production by early 2029 via a phase-one heap leach operation. The plan is supported by its May 2026 prefeasibility study and includes early engineering work with BBA Consultants, optimisation studies, and a 35,000m drilling program to expand resources and convert them into reserves.

Funding and corporate structure are still key risks: Challenger is looking to refinance a US$15 million convertible debenture due this month, and is also weighing a secondary listing to broaden institutional ownership. The company expects an exploration update in Q4 2026 and confirmation on its RIGI application in 1H 2027.