On April 26, 2022, South 32 announced the production of CerroMatoso nickel iron in the first quarter of 2022. Its production in the first quarter was 10,600 tons, up 49% year-on-year and down 1% quarter-on-quarter. The annual output in 2021 is 38,300, an increase of 6% year-on-year. Cerro Matoso's nickel production has increased by 33% to date as a result of successful refurbishment of the pre-furnace. CerroMatoso nickel production increased 33% (or 70,700 mt) to 30,900 mt in the nine months ended March 2022. The increase in production was mainly due to a major furnace refurbishment completed in 21 and improved Q&P pit grades, which increased average nickel grade by approximately 9% (1H22:1.73%; 1H21:1.58%).
The 22-year production guidance remains unchanged at 43,800 mt.
The specific production and sales volume are shown in the following table:
