Aya Gold & Silver's Zgounder Silver Mine Achieves Major Milestone

Aya Gold & Silver Inc. (“Aya” or the “Corporation”) announced that ore processing has commenced at the new Zgounder Silver Mine plant. The plant is now mechanically complete, hot commissioning is advancing smoothly, and a silver pour is anticipated in November.

Key Highlights

Near-Completion of Wet Commissioning for the New Plant

• Wet commissioning completed for all primary systems
• Mechanical completion achieved for all subsystems

First Ore Processing Initiated on November 4

• Successful hot commissioning of the ball mill
• Low-grade ore is being processed through reactors, the counter-decantation circuit, and discharged into the tailings storage facility
• Over 4,000 tons milled by November 7
• Achieved a milling rate of 95 tons per hour, supporting confidence in the ramp-up
• Silver pour anticipated in November

Ramp-up to Commercial Production Expected Through Q4

• Production ramp-up has begun, with commercial production targeted for late Q4
• Steady-state nameplate capacity expected by Q1-2025

We are excited to highlight Zgounder’s imminent transition from commissioning to ramp-up. This new milestone marks another achievement by our dedicated team, who, over the past two years, have been driving Zgounder’s on-budget transformation into a leading global silver-only producer. We look forward to announcing commercial production before year-end and delivering on Zgounder’s production growth plans supported by strong silver market fundamentals.

Benoit La Salle, President & CEO, Aya Gold & Silver Inc.

Benoit La Salle added, “Alongside our ramp-up, we are thrilled to announce that Zgounder has recently received ISO 9001 certification—an accomplishment that reflects our team’s commitment to excellence.”

ISO 9001 Certification

The Zgounder Silver Mine has obtained ISO 9001:2015 certification. This prestigious certification covers all phases of the mining process, from geological exploration to the delivery of the silver doré bar, highlighting the Corporation’s dedication to high-quality and management standards.