Mollakara Gold Mine Becomes Operational and Starts Production
Speaking at the opening of the Mollakara Gold Mine, Cevdet Yılmaz announced that nearly 17 tons of production will be realized at the facility over a 5-year period.
Important economic data was shared at the opening ceremony of the Mollakara Gold Mine, which became operational after years of exploration and engineering work. Implemented with an investment of $250 million, the facility aims to increase Turkey's domestic gold production and contribute to reducing the current account deficit.
Investment and Production Targets
The Mollakara Gold Mine has successfully started production after approximately 18 years of exploration, study, feasibility, and engineering work.
According to statements made at the opening, production targets at the facility, which consists of a $250 million investment, will be increased gradually.
Annual Production Quantities
It is planned that production at the facility will reach the 1-ton level within this year, and this figure will be increased to 3 tons next year.
It is targeted to realize a total of nearly 17 tons of gold production over the coming 5-year period.
Economic Contribution and Current Account Deficit
It is known that Turkey imports 150 tons of gold annually and realizes a production of 30 tons.
It is anticipated that the facility in Mollakara will increase domestic production by 10 percent and reduce the current account deficit by $2.5 billion over a 5-year period.
Employment and Regional Development
It was stated that 265 people are currently employed at the facility, and this number is targeted to be increased to 337 over time.
It is expressed that this investment will also form a strong basis for new steps that will activate the economic potential of Ağrı.
Opening Process and History
It was shared that open-pit production in Mollakara started on June 16.
It was officially conveyed that the first gold pouring was carried out on July 16.