Hot Chili Secures Priority Registration for Costa Fuego and Huasco Water Projects

In a significant development for the Australian mining company Hot Chili Limited (ASX: HCH, TSXV: HCH, OTCQX: HHLKF), two of its key projects, the Costa Fuego copper-gold project and the Huasco Water project, have recently received registration for priority status. This move was facilitated by the Chilean Ministry of Economy and marks an essential milestone in the company's efforts to further its sustainable mining initiatives along the coastal ranges of Chile.

The registration process began in September 2024, with Hot Chili submitting its application based on its belief that both projects met the criteria set forth by the Chilean government as part of a strategic initiative to streamline regulatory approvals for investments deemed crucial for national development. Achieving priority status means that both projects will benefit from an optimized administrative approval process, which is aligned with the government's sustainability objectives.

This registration not only validates the importance of Costa Fuego and Huasco Water in contributing to Chile’s economic landscape but also underscores Hot Chili's commitment to promoting sustainable development. With these projects now under the supervision of the Office for Sustainable Project Management (Oficina de Gestión de Proyectos Sustentables), the company can centralize and monitor active permitting processes via a single platform.

The Costa Fuego project, in particular, has garnered attention for its potential to operate as a top-tier, long-term copper production facility. Recent studies, including a Pre-Feasibility Study released in March 2025, established the project's capability to achieve high production rates with competitive capital intensity. Meanwhile, the Huasco Water project complements these efforts by providing essential resources for operations.

Unique identification codes have been confirmed for both projects, with Costa Fuego assigned PRYXTX11 and Huasco Water given ZPJCFN59, making it easier for stakeholders and investors to track progress through the official Chilean Government website.

Hot Chili's management reported eagerness to share updates regarding the progress of these projects, including anticipated results from the ongoing drilling program at La Verde, a recent copper-gold porphyry discovery that is set to reinforce the Costa Fuego production hub significantly. The anticipation surrounding these developments indicates the potential for collaborative advancements in sustainability and resource management in Chile's mining sector.

In conclusion, Hot Chili's achievement of registering the Costa Fuego and Huasco Water projects for priority status is a testament to the company's proactive approach to aligning with national sustainability goals. It positions the firm advantageously in both local and global markets, as they continue to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. Investors and stakeholders eagerly await further updates, especially concerning the drill results that are expected to shape the trajectory of their ongoing projects.

For those interested in more information, Hot Chili’s representatives are available for inquiries to provide further clarity on the developments surrounding these exciting projects.