Overview
Quilla Resources Inc., a copper-focused junior, is consulting with financial advisers about a possible share listing in Toronto as it evaluates growth options tied to operations in southern Peru.
Leadership and listing preference
The company is led by Victor Gobitz, a Peruvian mining executive with experience running a mine previously owned by BHP Group and Glencore Plc. Gobitz said Quilla is considering an initial public offering next year, noting a preference for a Canadian listing because of the local mining investor base. "In Toronto there is an ecosystem specialized in mining," he said, adding that if the company continues to expand it could seek a listing in New York in subsequent years.
Operational strategy
Quilla's pitch to investors centers on expanding an existing operation rather than developing a brand new project. That approach is intended to enable faster, lower-cost growth amid industry headwinds around bringing new supply to market for the energy transition and data center demand, according to the company. The team is also tracking other opportunities within Peru.
Chapi restart and exploration plans
The immediate focus is the restart of the Chapi mine. The operation began a ramp-up in February and is on track to reach full capacity in the fourth quarter. Quilla is simultaneously advancing exploration across its broader land package adjacent to a major Freeport-McMoRan Inc. mine to evaluate whether a larger deposit exists beneath the current workings.
Capital needs and production targets
Quilla is arranging a new capital raise ahead of the planned IPO to fund the restart and near-term expansion. Gobitz has set a target to raise Chapi's annual output to 30,000 metric tons. Achieving that production level is estimated to require an investment between $200 million and $300 million. He noted that fully developing the deposit's longer-term potential could necessitate a new owner with deeper financial resources.
Next steps
The company is weighing timing for a listing in Toronto and preparing for a potential IPO next year while advancing capital raising and exploration work on its Peruvian land package.
Note: This article reports on the company's stated plans and timelines as provided by management.