Chelopech, DPM’s flagship asset, was acquired in 2003 and is located in Bulgaria, an EU-member country. The underground copper-gold mine is situated approximately 75 kilometres east of the capital city of Sofia and has been transformed by DPM into a world-class operation with leading operational and environmental performance.

Underground mining method consists of using sub-level long-hole open stoping with paste fill. Ore is crushed underground and transported to the surface using conveyors. Chelopech produces copper-gold and pyrite-gold concentrates that are shipped to global smelters for processing.

In February 2026, Chelopech’s mine life was successfully extended 10 years to 2036. This extension was driven by an updated Mineral Reserve estimate of 23.2 million tonnes, a 42% net increase. DPM has a multi-decade track record of adding incremental mineral reserves to offset depletion at Chelopech. With compelling exploration prospects, there is strong potential for further Mineral Reserve additions at the asset. 

•    Sharlo Dere Prospect: Now fully incorporated into the mine plan, adding 650,000 tonnes of inventory.
•    Wedge Zone Deep (WZD) Discovery: A high-grade discovery located ~300 metres below existing infrastructure. WZD is currently undergoing a 10,000-metre drilling program (Q1 2026) to further define its significant upside potential.
•    Expansion Potential: Efforts are underway to convert the Chelopech North and Brevene licenses into mining concessions, with the Chelopech North concession expected to be granted later in 2026.

A multi-year capital investment program transformed Chelopech into a high quality, modern operation with strong production and low costs. Chelopech today has a solid track record of meeting or exceeding international standards for worker safety, environmental protection and sustainable development. 

Chelopech is a leader in digital innovation, achieving significant improvements in efficiency, environmental performance and worker safety. The mine has 100% reliable underground Wi-Fi coverage at 600 metres below ground level, and, in 2019, commissioned the industry’s first deep-learning autonomous drone working in an underground environment.