AVZ Minerals Limited

AVZ Minerals Limited, headquartered in West Perth, Australia, is a leading mineral exploration company focused on the Manono Lithium and Tin Project in the DRC. Supplying essential lithium for batteries, AVZ supports the global shift to electric vehicles and renewable energy with sustainable mining practices.

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AVZ Minerals Limited is a prominent mineral exploration company headquartered in West Perth, Australia, primarily focused on the development of the Manono Lithium and Tin Project. Located in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Manono Project is one of the world’s largest lithium-rich pegmatite deposits, containing significant reserves of lithium, caesium, and tantalum. Founded in 2007, the company has strategically positioned itself as a key player in the global lithium supply chain, which is critical for the production of lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.

With a 75% stake in the Manono Project and a 100% interest in the surrounding Manono Extension Project, AVZ Minerals is committed to advancing sustainable mining practices and ensuring compliance with corporate governance standards. The company aims to capitalize on the growing demand for lithium, driven by the rapid expansion of the electric vehicle and renewable energy sectors. By focusing on the development of the Manono Project, AVZ Minerals is set to play a vital role in supporting the global transition to cleaner energy solutions.

Battery Technology

While AVZ Minerals Limited does not develop battery technologies directly, it plays a crucial role in the battery value chain by supplying essential raw materials. The Manono Project is expected to produce significant quantities of spodumene concentrate (SC6) and primary lithium sulphate (PLS), both of which are vital for lithium-ion battery production. Spodumene concentrate is a key feedstock for lithium conversion, while PLS is used in the manufacturing of battery-grade lithium chemicals.

The company’s focus on sustainable mining practices, including the use of hydropower for operations, aligns with the broader goals of reducing the environmental impact of battery production. By providing a stable and substantial supply of lithium, AVZ Minerals supports the growth of the lithium-ion battery industry, which is essential for powering electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. Its upstream position in the supply chain ensures that raw materials are efficiently extracted and processed, contributing to the overall sustainability of the battery industry.

Recent Projects

In recent years, AVZ Minerals has made significant progress in advancing the Manono Project. In January 2025, the company announced a restructured transaction implementation agreement, which includes a US$20 million pre-completion facility. This development is part of ongoing efforts to accelerate the project’s development and ensure its timely completion. Additionally, AVZ secured $15 million in litigation funding from Locke Capital II to support legal efforts related to disputes over its mining projects in the DRC, including the Manono Project. This funding enables the company to protect its interests while maintaining operational focus.

The Manono Project remains AVZ Minerals’ primary focus, with extensive geological exploration and resource evaluation efforts confirming its potential as one of the largest lithium deposits globally. These initiatives underscore the company’s commitment to advancing the project and meeting the growing demand for lithium in the battery industry.

Investors

AVZ Minerals Limited has attracted a diverse range of investors, including institutional and strategic partners. Notable institutional investors include Vanguard Total International Stock Index Fund, iShares Core MSCI EAFE ETF, and Fidelity Total International Index Fund, which collectively hold over 73 million shares. Strategic investors such as Yibin Tianyi Lithium Industry Co. have also played a significant role, contributing to capital raises and strengthening AVZ’s position in the lithium supply chain.

In 2024, AVZ Minerals received an offer from Resource Capital Investments Pty Ltd to acquire a minority stake from institutional shareholders. However, the company’s directors unanimously recommended rejecting the offer, reflecting their confidence in the long-term value of the Manono Project.