Rio Tinto’s exploration arm, Rio Tinto Exploration (RTX), has given formal notice effective 20 March 2024 to Annamite that it will not exercise its option and will exit the Sokdee project option to joint venture which was announced on 6 July 2023. RTX remains a shareholder in Annamite, following its US$150,000 equity investment in Annamite at the outset of the option arrangement.

During the option period, RTX funded and provided technical input on 4 drill holes into the Sokdee Cu-Au-Mo soil and geophysics targets, which were carried out by Annamite as operator.

RTX has indicated to Annamite that it is open to continue discussions regarding collaboration on other exploration areas in Laos.

Annamite has welcomed the collaboration with RTX including its support, and looks forward to continuing it in some form in other areas in Laos.