Interview with Peter Secker, CEO of Canyon Resources

Our previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/canyon-resources-asxcay-fast-tracking-worlds-largest-high-grade-bauxite-development-7892

Recording date: 5th December 2025

Canyon Resources (ASX:CAY) is advancing rapidly toward mid-2026 production at its Minim Martap bauxite project in Cameroon, executing one of the mining industry's most compressed development timelines. The company has progressed from mining license approval in late 2024 to full development mode, with all major equipment ordered and financing secured.

The project's economics are compelling: a pre-tax net present value exceeding $800 million, 29% internal rate of return, and modest capital costs of just $97 million to first production. Operating costs of $35 per ton position Minim Martap competitively in the global market, particularly given the premium-grade ore quality of 51% alumina with less than 2% silica. This quality commands a $10 premium over Guinea's standard pricing, translating to margins of $25-30 per ton at current market prices of approximately $81-82 per ton.

CEO Peter Secker emphasized the project's market timing: "Chinese demand for bauxite is strong. Guinea obviously have a few problems with some decisions they've made recently. So everybody is looking for an alternate source of bauxite and Minim Martap coming on stream mid next year. Perfect timing."

The development's critical path centers on rail infrastructure. Locomotives ordered from China will arrive in February 2026, with commissioning in March to enable ore hauling by April. The mining contractor, experienced in African bauxite operations, mobilizes in January. Initial production of 2 million tons annually will scale dramatically to 10 million tons by 2031 as World Bank-funded rail upgrades totaling $820 million are completed, potentially generating $200 million in annual free cash flow.

Canyon has also raised equity to increase its Camrail stake from 9% to over 30%, seeking operational control over the critical 800-kilometer rail corridor to the Port of Douala. As Cameroon's first major mining project, Minim Martap benefits from strong government support and first-mover advantages in an emerging jurisdiction with significant mineral potential across multiple commodities.

View Canyon Resources' company profile: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/canyon-resources

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