Almonty Sangdong Mine Launches Commercial Tungsten Production in South Korea

Almonty Sangdong Mine Marks Key Milestone in Tungsten Production

Almonty Industries has delivered the first ore to the Sangdong Mine’s ROM pad in South Korea. This marks the final step before full-scale commercial production begins. The mine extracts ore using controlled blasting. Workers transport the ore via haulage systems and stock it at the ROM pad by grade. At the ROM pad, the ore undergoes primary and secondary crushing, grinding, and flotation. These processes produce tungsten concentrate ready for global distribution.

The Sangdong Mine holds one of the largest tungsten resources worldwide. Total mineral reserves are estimated at 8.57 million tonnes, with 0.42% average tungsten oxide. Almonty CEO Lewis Black said the mine strengthens the global tungsten supply chain. He noted Sangdong provides a strategic alternative to the China-dominated market. China currently supplies over 80% of the world’s tungsten.

Ore processing is critical to stable production. After crushing and flotation, tungsten-bearing minerals are concentrated, dried, and packaged for downstream customers. The mine will then enter a production stabilization phase. This step ensures consistent quality and reliable supply for high-technology industries.

Strategic Impact of Almonty’s Sangdong Mine on Global Tungsten Supply

The Sangdong Mine forms the cornerstone of a new non-China tungsten supply chain. It serves defense, semiconductors, AI hardware, aerospace, and other strategic sectors. The project also restores South Korea’s role as a major tungsten supplier. Almonty plans the “Korean Trinity,” a fully integrated tungsten and molybdenum production, refining, and upgrading hub.

Black emphasized long-term benefits for U.S. defense procurement. By providing non-China tungsten after 2027, Sangdong reduces import reliance. It enhances resource security for the U.S. and allied nations. Almonty’s acquisition of a Montana tungsten project will expand its North American footprint. This marks the first U.S. tungsten mine in a decade.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

The restart of commercial operations at the Sangdong Mine represents a strategic pivot in the global tungsten market. By diversifying supply away from China, Almonty strengthens supply-chain resilience for critical industries. Market participants should anticipate improved stability in tungsten pricing and increased options for non-China sourcing. This project exemplifies how geopolitical strategy intersects with industrial minerals and high-tech manufacturing.