Challenger Gold is pleased to announce that it has received approval of the environmental impact assessment (EIA) for its Hualilán Gold Project in San Juan Province, Argentina, through Resolution No. 688-MM-2024.
The approval represents a major milestone in the development of the Hualilán Project and marks the first gold project in San Juan Province to receive an EIA approval in 17 years. The EIA covers 19 mining rights, including the Hualilán Groups No. 1 and No. 2, and enables the company to proceed with mine construction and development activities.
The company has made strong social commitments including:
- Prioritising local employment with focus on San Juan residents.
- Community development programme.
- Technical training programme for local students.
- Promoting participation of local and regional suppliers.
Dr. Sonia Delgado, Executive Director of Challenger Gold commented:
“This approval establishes a new standard in mining, combining economic development with environmental protection and social benefit for San Juan. Challenger chose San Juan not by chance, but by conviction - a province that offers not only legal security and institutional support but possesses exceptional human capital and over a century of mining tradition.
“The approval process was led by local professionals, demonstrating that San Juan’s talent meets the highest international standards. We will be an example of modern mining, with 71 specific environmental commitments that we view as our promise to the people of San Juan who have seen us grow.”
The EIA approval enables the company to advance with sectoral permits and commence construction activities at the Hualilán Project.