Casablanca – Aya Gold & Silver, a Canadian mining company specializing in the exploration, development, and production of silver, has announced impressive production results for its Zgounder silver mine in Morocco, highlighting significant growth in early 2025. In January alone, the company produced 383,515 ounces (oz) of silver, following a strong fourth quarter of 2024, during which 491,310 oz were extracted.
This increase in production reflects Aya’s ongoing efforts to expand operations and improve efficiency at its flagship mine. The company has invested in modern mining techniques and optimized its processes to achieve higher output and profitability.
Significant production growth in January 2025
Aya’s January 2025 silver production marked a 77% increase compared to December 2024. This rise was supported by an increase in ore processing, with the company handling 88,868 tonnes of ore, a 53% jump from the previous month.
In addition, the silver recovery rate improved to 87%, up from 85% in Q4 2024. Recovery rate refers to the percentage of silver successfully extracted from the ore, and this improvement demonstrates the efficiency of Aya’s processing methods.
The company also reported an 8% rise in plant availability, reaching 95% in January 2025. This means that the mining plant was operational and functioning at near-full capacity, further boosting production.
Mining output and expansion strategy
Beyond processing improvements, Aya increased its mine production significantly. The company extracted 50,403 tonnes of ore in January 2025, representing a 29% increase from December 2024. This aligns with Aya’s long-term goal of reaching a 3,000 tonnes per day (tpd) mining rate in 2025.
The company’s expansion strategy includes both underground mining and open-pit operations. The open pit, in particular, has been performing beyond expectations, providing additional flexibility in production and helping Aya maintain its upward growth trend.
CEO’s statement on strong performance
Benoit La Salle, President and CEO of Aya Gold & Silver, expressed confidence in the company’s progress:
“I am pleased to announce our Q4 2024 and January 2025 production results, which meet our targets and showcase significant production growth. The 77% month-over-month increase from December to January is a testament to our improved recovery methods and the successful ramp-up of our new Zgounder plant, which is now operating beyond its designed capacity. In addition, our open-pit operations continue to exceed expectations.”
He further emphasized that the company’s consistent operational improvements put Aya in a strong position for sustained growth and record profitability in 2025.
Future outlook and upcoming announcements
With production levels steadily increasing, Aya Gold & Silver is optimistic about its future prospects. The company expects further efficiency gains as it refines its processes and fully integrates its expanded operations at Zgounder.
Aya will release its full financial and operational results for Q4 and FY 2024 on March 28, 2025. Investors and stakeholders can expect further insights into the company’s performance and strategic plans for the year ahead.
Aya Gold & Silver’s latest production results demonstrate strong operational growth and efficiency improvements at the Zgounder mine. The company’s investments in technology and infrastructure are paying off, allowing for higher production rates, better recovery percentages, and increased mining capacity.
With 2025 shaping up to be a record year, Aya is well-positioned to strengthen its status as a leading silver producer and continue delivering value to its shareholders.