Taseko Copper Production Nears at Florence Project in Arizona

Taseko Advances Florence Copper Project Toward First Output

Canada’s Taseko Mines (TSX: TKO) (NYSE: TGB) has completed construction at its Florence copper project in Arizona. The company now moves into wellfield operations and commissioning of its solvent extraction and electrowinning (SX/EW) plant. Taseko targets first copper production within weeks, marking a significant milestone for its U.S. operations.

Wellfield acidification began in early November, with solutions circulating through all new production wells by December. Injection flow rates have consistently met or exceeded expectations, accelerating early-stage acidification. Copper concentrations in solution now meet the threshold required for SX/EW operations, paving the way for smooth plant start-up.

Drilling at Florence has resumed with three rigs expanding the commercial wellfield. This effort aims to support higher solution flows and boost copper production during the 2026 ramp-up. President and CEO Stuart McDonald highlighted the seamless transition from construction to operations and expressed confidence in early copper recoveries.

Taseko Copper Production and Canadian Operations Update

Meanwhile, Taseko’s Gibraltar mine in British Columbia produced 98 million pounds of copper and 1.9 million pounds of molybdenum in 2025. Fourth-quarter output improved significantly, reaching 31 million pounds of copper as head grades increased to 0.26% with 81% recoveries. Molybdenum output surged 50% over the third quarter, achieving the strongest quarterly result in eight years.

The Gibraltar SX/EW plant produced 0.9 million pounds of copper cathode in Q4 and continues steady operations. Full-year sales totaled 99 million pounds of copper. McDonald expects more consistent quarterly production in 2026 as mining advances further into higher-quality ore zones.

Beyond these operations, Taseko maintains its Yellowhead copper project in British Columbia under environmental review and holds a 77.5% stake in the New Prosperity property near Williams Lake. These assets highlight Taseko’s strategic commitment to expanding North American copper supply.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Taseko’s Florence copper project signals growing U.S. copper output at a time of tightening global supply. Early acidification success and SX/EW commissioning suggest the company can deliver first copper cathode on schedule. Meanwhile, consistent Canadian production underpins Taseko’s long-term portfolio strength. Investors and industry watchers should monitor Florence’s ramp-up, as output will influence North American copper pricing and supply chains for electric vehicles and renewable energy.