Could you share an update on Redpath’s recent activities in Mongolia?

Redpath’s current operations in Mongolia are focused exclusively on the Oyu Tolgoi project, delivered through our joint venture with DAYAN Contract Mining (DCM). We are executing a range of underground development services on site, including lateral development, raise boring, life of mine construction, and steel set and roadway construction. A recent addition to our scope includes quality control and quality assurance, which is scheduled to run until May 2027. Our Underground Development Services and Construction Support Services consistently exceed monthly targets, with lateral development output averaging 1,100 m per month. We have secured a four-month extension on the Steel Set Installation and Roadway Construction contract, which supports the block cave development.

How has Oyu Tolgoi’s strategic approach evolved over the last five years, particularly regarding efficiency and sustainability?

Oyu Tolgoi is recognized as a world-class mining operation. Despite Mongolia’s unique logistical and geopolitical challenges, Oyu Tolgoi has made consistent investments in infrastructure and technology. The site is proactive in testing and adopting new underground mining technologies, positioning itself at the forefront of innovation. 

What have been the biggest challenges for Redpath in Mongolia over the past year?

A key challenge remains workforce development, specifically recruiting and training the next generation of Mongolian miners. Regulatory reforms enabling greater inclusion of women in mining have facilitated meaningful progress, and around 16–17% of our workforce is now female.

To support training, Redpath has established centers in Ulaanbaatar, Dalanzadgad and Khanbogd. Crucially, Redpath has become a Certified Training Organization in Mongolia, enabling us to issue nationally recognized underground mining and equipment operator licenses. 

What does Mongolia need to do to attract more specialized international mining companies?

Mongolia must ensure regulatory stability and transparency to build investor confidence. Infrastructure improvements are also vital. Challenges around export logistics and the harsh climate have created bottlenecks in the past. Recent developments like the Tavan Tolgoi-Gashuunsukhait railway are promising, but further investment in power, water and transportation is needed.

Sustainability and ESG commitments are increasingly non-negotiable for foreign investors. Strengthening standards around community engagement and environmental responsibility will elevate Mongolia’s value proposition. Redpath integrates ESG into every aspect of our strategy. We were recently recognized as the top investor in the South Gobi region, underscoring our long-term commitment to local partnerships and excellence.

How are Redpath’s training centers contributing to worker safety?

With over 60 years of global experience and more than 20 years in Mongolia, we are committed to helping shape a safer, stronger, and more sustainable mining future. Our safety and training efforts have yielded measurable results. Many of the Mongolian miners we have trained now work internationally. 

What would you say is Redpath’s core value proposition as a mining contractor?

Redpath’s strength lies in our global experience, long-standing reputation, and commitment to high standards. Our Mongolian activities are managed by the Americas business unit, but we draw on expertise and innovation from across all Redpath operations worldwide. Workforce development is a key differentiator. We have trained tens of thousands of miners globally, including over 5,000 Indonesian nationals at the Freeport project in Central Papua. In North America, we maintain multiple partnerships with Indigenous and local communities to create job and training pathways. This expertise translates well to Mongolia’s own workforce development goals.

Looking ahead to the future, what are Redpath’s plans for Mongolia?

We remain committed to exploring new opportunities in Mongolia, particularly as regulatory and political conditions stabilize. In the immediate future, our focus remains on Oyu Tolgoi. We have spent over two decades contributing to this major underground block cave project. By continuing to invest in local communities and training, we believe Redpath can contribute meaningfully to Mongolia’s mining future.