On 3 December 2025, management of Kingsgate, led by Executive Chairman Ross Smyth-Kirk OAM and Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Jamie Gibson, together with Cherdsak Utha-aroon, General Manager of Sustainability at Akara Resources Public Company Limited, met with Suchart Chomklin, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Natural Resources and Environment. The meeting focused on acknowledging the resolution of the TAFTA matter and discussing opportunities for ongoing collaboration to support responsible mining practices aligned with international standards. The Company reaffirmed its commitment to support Thailand to become a regional hub for gold and silver trading, leveraging the country’s strong resource potential and well-established downstream industries. Kingsgate remains confident that the Chatree Gold Mine will continue to play a key role in driving Thailand’s economy through job creation, income generation, and improving the quality of life in surrounding communities.
Since the Chatree Gold Mine resumed operations in March 2023, Kingsgate has made substantial investments in Thailand, including refurbishment of the site and recruitment of personnel. The Company has paid more than THB 2 billion in royalties and contributed over THB 450 million to funds established under Thailand’s mineral resource management policy and strategic framework. The mine’s operations are expected to inject more than billions of Baht annually into the Thai economy through support for local businesses and employment—both directly and through local contractors. The Company also places great importance on community engagement, maintaining ongoing dialogue with local communities to share information and collect feedback.
Cherdsak Utha-aroon, General Manager of Sustainability at Akara Resources Public Company Limited, reaffirmed that the Company operates in full compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and requirements, and recognizes principles of good governance. All activities at the Chatree Gold Mine prioritise safety, health, and environmental stewardship in accordance with international standards. The Company also provides ongoing health check-ups for local residents to build confidence that mining activities do not pose health risks to nearby communities—an assurance supported by the long-term good health of many employees who have worked at the mine for 10–20 years.
“Approximately 85% of our employees are local residents. If the mine were truly unsafe, no one would risk their own wellbeing, or that of their families for employment here. The trust that our employees and neighboring communities place in us is a powerful testament to our commitment. In addition, contributions paid to the Village Development Fund have played a crucial role in improving community wellbeing. Most recently, a local subdistrict administrative organization used the fund to install solar-powered streetlights, greatly enhancing convenience and safety for local residents,” said Cherdsak.
The Company would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Government, community leaders, and residents around the mine for their trust and support, which remain integral to achieve the long-term prosperity for all.
