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Tivan’s Timor-Leste Expansion Faces Regulatory and Exploration Challenges Ahead

Mining By Maxwell Dee 3 min read

Tivan Limited has reported fresh copper-gold mineralisation at its Turiscai Project in Timor-Leste, alongside nearing completion of strategic acquisitions at Baucau and Ossu. These developments mark significant progress in the company’s regional exploration ambitions.

  • New rock chip assays reveal up to 2.18% copper and 4.79g/t gold at Turiscai
  • Surface sampling program ongoing to refine exploration targets
  • Turiscai Project compared to major regional copper-gold deposits
  • Acquisition of Baucau and Ossu Projects nearing finalisation
  • Expansion of local geology team to support exploration activities

Fresh Discoveries at Turiscai

Tivan Limited (ASX – TVN) has announced encouraging new assay results from its ongoing surface sampling program at the Turiscai Project in Timor-Leste. The latest batch of 111 rock chip samples returned copper grades up to 2.18% and gold grades reaching 4.79 grams per tonne, alongside anomalous zinc values. These findings build on previous high-grade results, reinforcing the project's potential for significant copper-gold mineralisation.

Located approximately 40 kilometres south of Dili, Turiscai spans seven exploration licenses covering 344 square kilometres. The geological setting bears resemblance to some of the region’s most prolific copper-gold deposits, such as Grasberg in Indonesia and Ok Tedi in Papua New Guinea, suggesting a promising exploration frontier.

Systematic Exploration and Growing Team

The surface sampling program, initiated in mid-2025, continues to map out geochemical anomalies across multiple catchments within the project area. Notably, mineralisation appears widespread rather than isolated, hinting at a larger mineralised system. Tivan is expanding its local geology team to accelerate fieldwork and prepare for more advanced exploration techniques, including geophysical surveys and soil sampling planned for later this year.

These efforts aim to refine drill targets focused on porphyry-style copper-gold deposits, a style known for large-scale, economically viable mineralisation. The company’s methodical approach underscores a commitment to cost-effective, data-driven exploration.

Strategic Acquisitions Near Completion

In parallel with Turiscai’s progress, Tivan is close to finalising the acquisition of the Baucau and Ossu Projects from Beacon Minerals Limited. These adjoining licenses are considered highly prospective not only for copper and gold but also for cobalt and other critical minerals, aligning with global demand trends.

While regulatory and joint venture formalities remain underway, Tivan has already begun preliminary sampling at these sites, with assay results expected by late Q1 2026. This expansion positions the company to leverage multiple promising assets within Timor-Leste’s emerging mineral sector.

Looking Ahead

Executive Chairman Grant Wilson highlighted Tivan’s role in fostering stronger Australia-Timor-Leste relations, coinciding with a bilateral ceremony in Dili. He emphasised the company’s dedication to aligning exploration activities with national priorities and community expectations.

As 2026 unfolds, investors and observers will watch closely as Tivan advances its exploration programs, integrates new project areas, and moves toward potential resource delineation. The company’s systematic progress and strategic positioning in a relatively under-explored region could unlock significant value in the copper-gold space.

Bottom Line?

Tivan’s expanding footprint and promising assay results set the stage for a pivotal year in Timor-Leste’s copper-gold exploration landscape.

Questions in the middle?

  • How will upcoming geophysical surveys influence Tivan’s drilling strategy at Turiscai?
  • What are the key regulatory hurdles remaining for the Baucau and Ossu acquisitions?
  • Could the expanding local geology team accelerate the timeline toward resource definition?