Casablanca – Canadian mining company Catalyst Mines Inc. has reported a major breakthrough in its exploration campaign in southern Morocco, announcing the discovery of exceptionally rich concentrations of chromium, cobalt, and nickel at its Amasine Project, located in the Siroua region of the Ouarzazate province.
The results, derived from the company’s spring 2025 surface trenching program, indicate that the Amasine site may hold one of the most valuable near-surface mineral resources in North Africa in recent years. Hosted in serpentinite rock formations, the deposit’s geology is known to be favorable for large-scale, open-pit mining operations.
High-grade mineralization confirmed
According to Catalyst Mines, surface samples showed chromium levels peaking at 270,350 parts per million (ppm), with an average of 10,880 ppm across multiple trenches. The company also recorded nickel concentrations averaging 1,481 ppm, with highs of 3,719 ppm, and cobalt averaging 102 ppm, reaching up to 304 ppm in some areas.
“These results are exceptional by all measures,” said Tyler Burpee, CEO of Catalyst Mines Inc., in an official statement. “The grade and scale of chromite mineralization at Amasine position the project among the most promising sources of critical minerals globally.”
Estimated resource size and economic potential
The company estimates that the Amasine Project contains approximately 609 million tons of ore, making it one of the largest polymetallic mineral discoveries in Morocco. Based on preliminary assessments, the in-ground value of the deposit is estimated to exceed $60 billion. While these estimates are subject to further validation, they indicate the project’s potential as a long-term source of globally important materials.
The Amasine site lies roughly 40 kilometers from the Bou Azzer mine, an established cobalt operation. The geological similarities between the two locations reinforce confidence in Amasine’s scalability and long-term viability as a major mining hub.
Strategic importance for global supply chains
The discovery comes at a critical time for international markets. Chromium is vital in producing stainless steel and high-strength alloys used in industrial and military applications. Cobalt and nickel are key components in electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy storage systems, and defense technologies.
The co-location of these three metals in a single deposit makes Amasine particularly attractive from a development standpoint. Catalyst Mines sees the opportunity to build a high-margin, integrated mining operation that could contribute meaningfully to global critical mineral supply chains, which are currently undergoing major restructuring due to rising demand and geopolitical concerns.
Ongoing exploration and next steps
To build on these early results, Catalyst Mines has launched an advanced drilling program, consisting of 20 drill holes totaling 4,000 meters. The goal is to confirm vertical mineralization continuity and produce a NI 43-101-compliant resource estimate, a globally recognized standard for reporting mineral reserves.
In parallel, the company is applying GIS-based geological modeling, high-resolution sampling, and 3D mapping to improve resource delineation and guide development decisions.
Focus on sustainability and local partnerships
Catalyst Mines has emphasized its commitment to environmental responsibility, sustainable mining practices, and community engagement. The company stated it aims to work closely with local partners and authorities to ensure the project’s benefits extend beyond the mining sector, supporting job creation and regional development.
Morocco’s evolving role in critical mineral supply
Morocco, traditionally known for its phosphate reserves, is now attracting attention as a potential hub for critical minerals needed for the global energy transition. Its strategic location, political stability, and trade agreements with both the U.S. and the EU make it an appealing destination for foreign investment.
The Amasine Project adds further momentum to Morocco’s mining ambitions and could enhance the country’s position as a key supplier of raw materials necessary for clean technologies, electrification, and modern manufacturing.
As global industries continue to shift toward decarbonization and high-tech production, discoveries like Amasine may prove crucial in ensuring a stable and diversified supply of essential minerals.
