McEwen Inc. Partners With World Bank's IFC to Advance Sustainable Los Azules Copper Project in Argentina

McEwen Inc. has announced a significant partnership between its subsidiary McEwen Copper Inc. and the International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group, to advance the Los Azules copper project in Argentina. The collaboration agreement focuses on aligning the project with IFC's environmental, social, and governance standards, marking a crucial step in developing one of the world's largest undeveloped copper deposits.

The partnership supports potential future debt and equity financing as part of McEwen Copper's broader strategy for the Los Azules project. With Environmental Impact Declaration approval already secured and a feasibility study expected by October 2025, the project is positioned to begin construction following final engineering and financing arrangements. This alignment with IFC standards emphasizes sustainable mining practices that prioritize transparency, reduced carbon emissions, and community benefits.

Los Azules aims to become Argentina's first regenerative copper mine, targeting carbon neutrality by 2038. A June 2023 Preliminary Economic Assessment estimates a $2.7 billion after-tax net present value at $3.75 per pound copper price, with a projected 27-year mine life. The project contains substantial copper resources, including 10.9 billion pounds at 0.40% copper indicated plus 26.7 billion pounds at 0.31% copper inferred. For detailed PEA information, investors can review McEwen's press release.

The collaboration with IFC represents more than just financial backing—it signifies a commitment to international best practices in sustainable resource development. As global demand for copper continues to grow, particularly for renewable energy technologies and electric vehicles, projects like Los Azules that prioritize environmental and social responsibility will likely gain preferential access to capital markets and regulatory approvals. The partnership demonstrates how major mining projects can balance economic development with environmental stewardship.

McEwen Inc., as a gold and silver producer with operations across the Americas, brings substantial mining expertise to the project through its 46.4% ownership stake in McEwen Copper. The company's shares trade on both the New York Stock Exchange and Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol MUX. Investors seeking current information can access the company's newsroom at https://ibn.fm/MUX.

This development comes at a critical time when global copper supply constraints are becoming increasingly apparent. The Los Azules project's emphasis on sustainable practices positions it to potentially become a benchmark for responsible copper mining in South America. The involvement of the World Bank Group through IFC adds significant credibility to the project's environmental and social commitments, which could influence how future mining projects approach community engagement and environmental protection.