Australia-listed Walkabout has produced and shipped its first consignment of on-specification graphite concentrate from the Lindi Jumbo graphite mine, in Tanzania.
The shipment is destined for Europe, marking a milestone for the project during its commissioning phase.
MD and CEO Andrew Cunningham highlighted the importance of the achievement, noting that the production and sale of on-spec graphite demonstrated the project’s progress and the dedication of everyone involved.
“To achieve our first concentrate shipment from site, at a time when customers are looking to shore up their graphite supply chains, is a rewarding and outstanding outcome,” he said.
The Lindi Jumbo mine’s entry into the market comes at a time when there is a widening gap between Chinese domestic and international prices. The recent announcement by the US of a 25% tariff on Chinese natural graphite, coupled with China's export restrictions, have heightened concerns over supply security.
The first consignment of bagged graphite concentrate was shipped to Dar es Salaam for sale to Wogen under an exclusive offtake agreement. The sale forms part of a larger order from an end-customer in Europe.
“We now have the opportunity to engage with more end-users as we continue to demonstrate we have a viable product and that we are serious contenders in development of non-Chinese graphite supply,” said Cunningham.