Following an initial leaching period, leach solutions are flowing at expected levels and copper has been detected in solutions recovered from process sample wells.

Russell Hallbauer, president and CEO of Taseko, commented: "Our preliminary tracer tests of the wellfield in the [September] quarter 2018 exhibited robust percolation rates through the orebody. These results were as good as, and in some cases better than, modelled in the 2017 technical study. The rate at which the dissolved copper is increasing in the leach solution further confirms historical test work and technical data."

He added: "We have always taken a disciplined and measured approach with all of our capital projects. We perform the necessary work to ensure our projects are technically sound, that we understand our capital commitments and that the environment is protected. While it has taken us some time to get to this point with Florence, the additional time taken will ensure that the project generates strong returns for our shareholders and protects the environment to the highest standards for the local community."