13.09.2024
With the acquisition of Gümüştaş Mining and Doku Mining companies, officially announced on PDP, Doğan Holding has made an assertive step in the mining sector. The Holding aims to become a leader in the production of strategic ores such as lead, zinc, copper, and pyrite, and to establish itself as a key player in the production of lead-zinc concentrates. Driven by its mission to contribute to Türkiye’s economic growth and sustainable development objectives, the Holding has acquired a 50% stake from Kurmel Holding and a 25% stake from Ortadoğu Automotive, positioning itself as a new power in the mining sector.
Plans to produce 1 million tonnes annually
Doğan Holding is initially targeting an annual production of 1 million tonnes from mining sites that are estimated to contain 12 million tonnes of proven reserves, based on internationally recognized standards for reporting mineral resources and reserves. In addition to operating this site using underground mining methods, the company holds over 90 exploration licenses, with the goal of discovering various ores, particularly those known as battery minerals, such as copper and manganese, which are essential for green energy. Over the next four years, Doğan Holding plans to invest USD 100 million in facilities and underground mining operations exclusively at the Niğde Bolkar site. The Holding is prioritizing the continuation of geological exploration activities previously conducted by Gümüştaş, aiming to increase exploration drilling, which averaged 100 kilometers annually in past years, and to maintain investments in the discovery of underground resources.
Expanding the reach with new investments
Çağlar Göğüş, CEO of Doğan Holding, commented on the Holding’s new mining investments, stating: “As Doğan Holding, we continue to contribute to our country’s economy by investing in high-value-added areas, and we are advancing our growth initiatives in this sector, where we already have significant expertise. Through this company, which operates across a broad region from Niğde to Bitlis, we will not only support local economies outside of industrialized regions through investment and employment, but also contribute to social development.”
Göğüş emphasized that the mining sector plays a crucial role in supplying raw materials for the green transformation and future technologies, adding, “Lead and zinc, in particular, are vital inputs for today’s industries, and along with copper, are essential raw materials for the green economy. We are excited about this new investment, which we believe will serve as a strong example of sustainable mining practices that support both economic benefits and environmental and social responsibility. With the strength we draw from our 65-year history and our perspective as a responsible investment holding, we will continue to add value for our country, employees, and stakeholders.”
Responsible mining and sustainable environmental approach
Doğan Holding adopts an approach that integrates sustainability policies and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria into all its business processes, emphasizing environmental improvement and social responsibility projects in its mining activities. This approach not only focuses on resource extraction but is also supported by long-term sustainability goals, such as environmentally friendly mining practices, habitat restoration, and the conservation of natural resources. In terms of social responsibility, the Holding prioritizes social projects, educational and employment opportunities, and the reinvestment of the economic value generated by mining back into the community, all aimed at enhancing the well-being of local populations in mining regions. By maintaining transparent and trustworthy communication with its stakeholders, the Holding operates with accountability at every stage of its activities, while maintaining high social and environmental awareness in line with international standards.