Pan Asia Moves Forward with Plans to Increase Copper Presence in Chile

Pan Asia Metals, a junior explorer focused on lithium and copper, is taking significant steps to expand its copper presence in Chile by submitting new concession applications. The company is looking to secure key geological trends in the region with the goal of increasing its landholding for the Rosario Copper Project.

With a market capitalization of $12.8 million, Pan Asia has filed applications to extend the project area from 25 km² to 86 km², which reflects its long-term strategic planning. Paul Lock, the Managing Director of Pan Asia, explained that the decision to apply for additional land is a proactive move to position the company for future growth at Rosario, considering the promising exploration results already obtained.

The previously reported first-pass geochemical results, supported by soil and rock chip assays, have already shown the potential of the Rosario site. One of the key findings includes a large copper zone measuring 3.6 km in length and 150-250 meters in width, with Pan Asia holding 2.6 km of this zone. Lock emphasized that the new applications not only focus on expanding the exploration area for mineralization but also aim to capture important geological features, including energy corridors and water zones, which could be vital for future infrastructure and operational needs.

The additional areas Pan Asia is applying for include potential northern strike extensions that are covered with gravel, making them difficult to assess now but still believed to have great potential. The company is also targeting areas with known mineralization potential, particularly those located in areas where cross-cutting structures intersect the primary north-northwest geological trends. These areas are seen as highly prospective and align with Pan Asia’s long-term exploration goals. Moreover, the company has applied for several smaller concession areas to ensure that its landholdings remain contiguous where possible, providing a more efficient and integrated development approach.

Beyond mineral exploration, Pan Asia’s concession applications also address future infrastructure needs. The company is looking at energy solutions such as grid connections, solar installations, and possibly groundwater extraction, all critical for its future operations. These newly applied areas are located primarily to the west of the existing Rosario concessions and form a corridor that could provide access to Chile’s north-south energy grid. Additionally, a large, flat area of about 9 km² to the north is identified as a potential site for solar power installation, which could be crucial for the company’s long-term energy strategy.

Pan Asia’s broader strategic approach includes accessing groundwater in thick alluvial gravels, which could help meet the company’s operational water needs. These resources are an important part of the company's long-term sustainability plans in the region.

In total, the company has filed 26 exploration concession applications, covering approximately 61 km² of land. These areas are located within Chile’s central copper belt, only 10 km north of the El Salvador copper mine, a major operation that has been producing copper since 1959. By expanding its landholding and securing more ground now, Pan Asia aims to strengthen its position in this highly competitive and mineral-rich region. This move will also mitigate future risks associated with acquiring these zones later when competitors might increase their efforts to stake claims in the area.

Overall, Pan Asia’s decision to apply for additional concessions signals a forward-looking strategy that not only aims to enhance its exploration potential but also secures essential resources needed for the company’s future infrastructure and operational needs. This comprehensive approach to land acquisition and infrastructure development is positioning Pan Asia for continued success as it develops the Rosario Copper Project in one of the world’s most important copper regions.