Alien Metals Limited has signed a conditional, non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Pilbara Ports Authority to access its Utah Bulk Handling Facility (Utah Point) in Port Hedland. This MoU is an important step towards securing formal commitment from Pilbara Ports to export iron ore produced by Alien Metals' Hancock iron ore Project. Pilbara Ports is the operator of the Port of Port Hedland, the largest bulk export port in the world, located in the Pilbara Region of Western Australia.
Under the MoU, Alien Metals' subsidiary, Iron Ore Company of Australia Pty Ltd (IOCA), will have access to the common-use stockpiles at Utah Point and will be able to export up to 1.25 million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of iron ore starting from the fourth quarter of 2024. The next step in the process involves finalizing the terms of the binding agreement for iron ore export through Utah Point, which is subject to regulatory approvals.
This development is significant for Alien Metals as it allows the company to secure a pathway for exporting its iron ore production. By accessing the Utah Bulk Handling Facility, Alien Metals will be able to leverage the infrastructure and capabilities of Pilbara Ports, which operates the largest bulk export port in the world. This partnership will enable Alien Metals to efficiently export its iron ore and contribute to the growth of its Hancock iron ore Project.