Arrow Reports 185Mt at 42.3% Alumina Maiden Resource, Targets June Scoping Study

Maiden Resource Establishes Strong Foundation

Arrow Minerals Limited (ASX: AMD) has taken a significant step forward in its development strategy with the announcement of a maiden Mineral Resource estimate for its Niagara Bauxite Project in Guinea. The resource totals 185 million tonnes grading 42.3% alumina (Al2O3) and 2.7% silica (SiO2), positioning Arrow as a notable player in the bauxite sector.

Within this total, the company identified higher grade subsets including 138 million tonnes at 44% alumina and a premium 48 million tonnes at 48.2% alumina, all maintaining low silica levels. These grades are well aligned with market expectations for direct shipping ore (DSO) bauxite, underscoring the potential for a high-value product.

Scoping Study Progress and Operational Outlook

Arrow is progressing a comprehensive scoping study aimed at demonstrating the viability of a starter-scale bauxite mining operation. Scheduled for completion in June 2025, the study covers critical areas such as transport logistics, product characterisation, and mine planning. Notably, mine planning has incorporated a 'margin ranking' approach to prioritise higher-grade zones, enhancing potential project economics.

Favourable metallurgical testwork results reported post-quarter confirm that the Niagara bauxite comfortably meets Bayer process requirements, with alumina recoveries averaging 81% and reaching up to 95% under certain conditions. The low silica content further supports efficient processing and reduced caustic soda consumption, factors that could translate into operational cost advantages.

Exploration Upside and Historical Data Integration

Beyond the maiden resource, Arrow has reported a substantial Exploration Target of 190–240 million tonnes grading 39–43% alumina, based on both recent drilling and historical data from Vale's 2007 campaign. The integration of this historical drilling has enhanced confidence in the resource model and exploration potential, although further drilling is required to convert this target into a defined Mineral Resource.

Simandou North Iron Project Advances

Parallel to its bauxite ambitions, Arrow continues to advance its Simandou North Iron Project, located adjacent to the world-class Simandou iron ore deposits. The company has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding with Baosteel Resources, a major Chinese steel producer, to explore potential iron ore sales. Metallurgical testwork has yielded high-quality hematite fines with iron grades around 66%, low alumina, and silica, supporting the project's development prospects.

Financial Position and Corporate Developments

Arrow closed the March quarter with $5.6 million in cash, bolstered by a $7 million placement completed in early April 2025. These funds are earmarked for advancing the Niagara Bauxite Project, the Simandou Iron Project, and general working capital. The company also continues to engage with local communities and regulatory authorities, maintaining environmental compliance and social license to operate in Guinea.

Exploration permit renewals for both projects are underway, with approvals pending from Guinean mining authorities. Arrow’s strategic location near the Trans-Guinean Railway and port infrastructure offers logistical advantages that could accelerate project development timelines.

Looking Ahead

With a maiden resource in hand and a scoping study nearing completion, Arrow Minerals is poised to define the economic and operational parameters of what could become a significant bauxite operation in West Africa. The company’s dual focus on bauxite and iron ore projects, supported by strategic partnerships and robust metallurgical data, positions it well to capitalize on strong commodity market fundamentals.