According to the Australian mining company Fenix Resources, the company has completed a preliminary study describing the way to expand its Weld Range iron ore project in the Midwest region of Western Australia to 10 million tons per year.
Fenix stated that the research was conducted in accordance with the objectives of the Weld Range mining rights agreement signed with Sinosteel Midwest Corporation Limited (SMC), a Chinese subsidiary. Baowu Steel Group. According to the company, the preliminary study confirms that the Weld Range is a long-term and highly profitable iron ore mining project utilizing Fenix's existing mining facilities and its integrated logistics infrastructure in the region.
The study assumes an expansion of production starting on July 1, 2028, and is based on production goals previously outlined in the Fenix three-year production plan released on December 11, 2025, according to the company. SteelOrbis.
As part of the expansion plan, Fenix plans to increase iron ore production at the Weld Range from 6 million tons per year in 2028 to 10 million tons per year by 2031. Operations are expected to continue until fiscal year 2042, bringing the mine's operational life to 14 years, including 11 years with an annual production volume of 10 million tons.
Total production is estimated at approximately 138 million crude metric tons, based on 89 percent of measured and identified mineral resources.
Phoenix indicated that the average life of mining products is expected to be about 58 percent Fe. The early stage production volume is projected to include about 61 percent of the higher iron content material from the Bibin mine, partially offset by 56 percent of the lower iron content material from the Madunga mine.
According to Fenix, its ability to export 10 million tons of iron per year depends on the planned construction of a 244 km long private haulage road, which accounts for approximately 54 percent of the estimated capital development costs. The total capital costs for the development of the Weld Range iron ore project are estimated at AUD$282 million, including unforeseen expenses of AUD$37 million.
