Imperial Metals said on 22 October that the Red Chris underground block-cave feasibility study is nearing completion, with a full funding decision expected in early 2027. Imperial owns 30% of the British Columbia project and Newmont operates the joint venture. A decision remains subject to joint-venture approval.

If approved, construction is expected to start in 2027 and first production is targeted for 2033. These dates concern a proposed underground expansion beneath the existing open pit. They are forecasts, rather than confirmation that construction funding has been approved or underground production has begun.

Separately, Imperial reported third-quarter consolidated output of 8.535 million pounds of copper and 11,648 ounces of gold. Those figures combine its 30% share of Red Chris with all production at wholly owned Mount Polley.

On a 100% mine basis, Red Chris produced 14.771 million pounds of copper and 12,391 ounces of gold, down from 20.900 million pounds and 21,660 ounces in the third quarter of 2025. The company attributed the decline to lower grades and recoveries despite increased throughput. The distinction between whole-mine output and Imperial’s ownership share is essential when comparing the figures.