In a significant move that could reshape the gold mining landscape in South America, Metso and G Mining Ventures (GMIN) have inked a €30 million ($34 million) deal for the Oko West gold project in Guyana. This agreement, booked in Metso’s Minerals segment for the June quarter of 2025, is more than just a commercial transaction; it’s a strategic alignment that could set new benchmarks for project development and operational efficiency in the region.
Metso will supply a comprehensive suite of high-performance process equipment, including a Superior™ MKIII primary gyratory crusher, a Premier™ SAG mill, and a Premier ball mill. Each piece of equipment will be outfitted with Metso’s proprietary wear lining systems, designed to enhance durability and reduce downtime. The package also includes apron feeders and a High Rate Thickener (HRT) equipped with Reactorwell™ technology, showcasing Metso’s commitment to innovative and sustainable mining solutions.
The agreement is not just about the immediate delivery of equipment. It opens the door for potential future supplies as the project progresses, hinting at a long-term partnership that could evolve with the project’s needs. Giuseppe Campanelli, President, North and Central America at Metso, underscored this point, stating, “Metso fully supports G Mining Ventures’ approach to project development, plant engineering, and mine operations. We believe our industry-leading Metso Plus portfolio of equipment and services aligns perfectly with GMIN’s strategy and adds sustainable value.”
For GMIN, the Oko West Gold Project is a cornerstone of its corporate growth strategy. The project’s feasibility study, delivered in 2024, paints an impressive picture: an after-tax NPV (5% discount) of $2.2 billion, an IRR of 27%, and a payback period of 2.9 years at a base case gold price of $2,500/oz. The project is expected to yield an average annual gold production of 350,000 oz at an all-in sustaining cost of $1,123/oz over 12.3 years. These figures are not just numbers; they represent a commitment to responsible mining, community engagement, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainable growth.
The implications of this agreement are far-reaching. It signals a trend towards strategic partnerships in the mining industry, where equipment suppliers and mining companies collaborate closely from the project’s inception. This approach can lead to more efficient operations, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced community benefits. Moreover, the focus on high-performance, sustainable equipment could set a new standard for gold mining projects in the region.
The deal also sparks debate about the future of mining in Guyana. With the Oko West project’s impressive economic metrics and GMIN’s commitment to responsible mining, could Guyana emerge as a new hotspot for gold mining investment? How will this project influence local communities and the broader economy? These are questions that will shape the narrative around the Oko West project and the mining industry in Guyana.
As the project progresses, all eyes will be on Metso and GMIN. Their partnership could redefine industry norms, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gold mining. It’s a story of innovation, sustainability, and strategic vision—one that will undoubtedly spark further conversation and challenge the status quo in the mining sector.