Capital Metals (LSE:CMET) - World-Class Mineral Sands Asset Gains Momentum After Policy Reset

 Interview with Greg Martyr, Executive Chairman, Capital MetalsOur previous interview: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/posts/capital-metals-lsecmet-172-grade-mineral-sands-project-targets-fid-by-year-end-2025-8088Recording date: 12th May 2026Capital Metals is advancing the Taprobane mineral sands project in Sri Lanka, positioning it as one of the highest-grade deposits globally, with an average heavy mineral grade of 17.6% compared to a global average below 5%. Located on the country’s east coast, the project has gained momentum following Sri Lanka’s 2026 approval of its first national minerals policy in over two decades, which prioritizes mining as a key driver of foreign investment after the country’s debt restructuring.The regulatory overhaul includes shifting oversight of mining to the Ministry of Industry and introducing standardized procedures to improve transparency and reduce corruption risks. Capital Metals has already secured two mining licenses and deployed a 30-person team, with construction targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026 pending final approvals.The project’s phased development strategy is designed to minimize upfront capital while enabling rapid production. Stage 1 requires approximately $25 million in funding, largely financed through debt and offtake agreements, and is expected to generate around $40 million in annual revenue with strong margins. The projected internal rate of return exceeds 75%, significantly above industry norms. A straightforward wet concentration process further supports low-cost operations.Taprobane also offers scalability, with plans to expand production in three stages and optional investment in a $10 million mineral separation plant to produce higher-value refined products. Beyond organic growth, the company is exploring consolidation opportunities within Sri Lanka’s emerging mineral sands sector.With only a small portion of its 60-kilometer strike length explored, the project also presents substantial upside potential. Combined with favorable policy reforms and rising global demand for mineral sands used in industrial applications, Taprobane represents a strategically timed development in a rapidly evolving mining jurisdiction.Learn more: https://www.cruxinvestor.com/companies/capital-metalsSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com