AzerGold begins next stage of operations at Soyudlu gold mine

AzerGold CJSC has moved to the next stage of operations at Soyudlu (Zod), considered the largest gold deposit in the Caucasus.

According to Report, the company has successfully carried out the first drilling and blasting operation as part of preparations to put the mine into operation.

The initial rock blast was conducted in line with the approved technical project and safety requirements. A safety perimeter was established before the operation, warning signals were issued and necessary monitoring measures were implemented. Following the blast, specialists inspected the site to ensure its safety.

Since August 2025, large-scale geological studies, topographic planning and drilling operations with a total depth of 18,000 meters have been carried out at the deposit.

Based on the results of geological studies and exploration, the recoverable remaining reserves of the Soyudlu gold deposit have been estimated at 1.03 million ounces in accordance with the internationally recognized JORC (Joint Ore Reserves Committee) standard for the economic evaluation of mineral deposits.

The first blasting operation marks an important step toward bringing the deposit's resources into economic circulation and transitioning the mine to active operations.

AzerGold has also begun deploying modern geotechnical monitoring technology at the Soyudlu mine. Given the mine's geotechnical instability and the activity of various exogenous geological processes, a GroundProbe SSR-OMNI slope stability radar monitoring system has been activated to provide continuous monitoring.

The system's early warning capability allows potential risks to be identified in advance and preventive measures to be taken against landslide hazards. Its deployment is intended to protect workers and heavy machinery, as well as prevent interruptions and additional costs caused by potential landslides.

Alongside mine development, work is continuing on technological solutions for ore processing. Based on the mineralogical and metallurgical characteristics of Soyudlu ore and the results of testing, it has been determined that flotation technology will be required at the initial processing stage. Technical and economic assessments are currently being conducted on the possibility of establishing a modern flotation processing complex.

The commissioning of the mine is expected to increase production potential in Azerbaijan's mining sector and contribute to higher state budget revenues. It is also expected to create new jobs in Kalbajar district and support local economic activity and social development.

At the current stage, the Soyudlu project employs a total of 236 people, including employees of contractors. Of these, 55 are registered residents of Kalbajar district.

Given the limited availability of suitable candidates in the local labor market for positions requiring specialized qualifications, technical knowledge and experience in the mining industry, specialists with relevant qualifications and experience have also been recruited from other regions.

During the initial production and construction phase covering 2026-2029, the project is expected to provide direct and indirect employment to approximately 700 people. Once the Soyudlu mine reaches full-scale operations, direct and indirect employment is expected to exceed 1,300 people.

AzerGold begins next stage of operations at Soyudlu gold mine