United States Antimony restarts mining operations in Montana

US Antimony has announced its plans to restart mining operations in Montana after reacquiring mining claims near its smelting operations earlier this year. The company has been strategically acquiring these claims, with roots in antimony production since the 1970s, expanding their existing smelting facility’s reach in the region.

The grey-colored metal, antimony, is considered a critical mineral for national and economic security by the US, similar to rare earth elements. It is utilized in high-tech applications and defense weaponry, making it a strategic asset for the country. Despite its importance, the US has not produced antimony on a commercial scale since 2016, increasing the significance of US Antimony’s efforts to resume mining operations.

Geological and historical studies have shown that the newly acquired claims contain significant antimony resources, potentially reestablishing the US as a producer of this critical mineral. US Antimony is considering both underground and surface mining options to efficiently extract the mineral without extensive pre-development costs.

The company has already obtained permits to initiate mining activities on a portion of the acquired property. In the coming days, they plan to file additional permits with Montana’s Department of Environment Quality and the US Forest Service to expand their mining operations further. The stock market responded positively to this news, with US Antimony’s stock value increasing by 4% on the NYSE American exchange, reflecting growing investor confidence in the company’s strategic moves.

Chairman and CEO Gary Evans highlighted the recent surge in antimony prices due to global supply chain disruptions and embargos, particularly those initiated by China, the world’s leading antimony producer. With most processing capacity located in China, the US has recognized the need to secure domestic sources of antimony to reduce reliance on foreign imports, making initiatives like the one by US Antimony crucial for national interests.

Moreover, the current administration’s emphasis on bolstering domestic critical mineral production has led to the approval of projects like the Stibnite project in Idaho, showcasing the government’s commitment to reducing dependence on Chinese-controlled resources. US Antimony’s decision to restart mining operations aligns with this broader strategic goal of enhancing domestic production of critical minerals.

In conclusion, US Antimony’s efforts to reboot mining operations in Montana mark a significant step towards reestablishing the US as a prominent antimony producer. By leveraging existing infrastructure and historical resources, the company aims to contribute to national security and economic resilience by strengthening domestic supply chains for critical minerals like antimony.