NEWS

Bluemoon Group took part in Expo Minera Calafate, strengthening its leadership as the only internationally recognized refinery in Argentina and presenting its achievement of 999.9 gold purity.

Bluemoon Group?s participation in Expo Minera Calafate marked a new milestone in the company?s path within the Argentine market. The event, held August 27?29 in Santa Cruz province, not only showcased the group?s capabilities as the country?s only refinery with international-level infrastructure and technology, but also opened the door to new strategic partnerships in logistics and security.

In this conversation, Aldana Ricigliano, CEO of Bluemoon Group, reflects on why they chose to attend Expo Minera Calafate, which industry players participated, the key takeaways from the experience, and the lessons learned. She also shares objectives for the next edition, considers the role of these events in the company?s long-term strategy, and compares their importance with other industry gatherings, such as PDAC in Canada.

Why did you decide to participate in Expo Minera Calafate?

The decision stemmed from the need to strengthen our presence in Argentina. Bluemoon had already taken part in large-scale international events, such as PDAC in Toronto, but we realized that before presenting ourselves to the world, it was essential to consolidate at home. Expo Minera Calafate is a key event because it brings together only industry leaders and a highly specialized audience: senior executives from mining companies, strategic suppliers, and multinationals operating in Argentina. Unlike fairs open to the general public, here exchanges happen directly with the most relevant industry players. For Bluemoon, this participation marked a milestone in local positioning, reaffirming our role as the only refinery with the infrastructure, laboratories, and technology needed to provide comprehensive solutions to Argentine mining. It also allowed us to show that our vision is not only local but also aimed at becoming international leaders.

From there, what would you highlight about the experience?

The most valuable aspect was the direct contact with mining companies that were surprised to learn they could access in-country services they usually sought abroad. We found genuine interest in Bluemoon?s ability to process and refine materials with our own technology, opening opportunities to keep the value chain within Argentina. We connected and exchanged ideas with many participants, which led us to return with new challenges and projects. It was also an excellent opportunity to showcase Bluemoon?s capabilities at a time when Argentine mining is gaining strength. In this context, precious metals play a key role, and we aspire to be leaders in their processing both nationally and internationally.

Bluemoon had its own booth at Expo Minera Calafate. What drew the most interest?

The announcement that Bluemoon achieved ?four nines? (999.9) gold purity had a major impact among visitors. Personally, I was most impressed by the value of this certification and the demanding processes required to achieve it. This milestone represents not only a breakthrough for the company but also a source of pride for the Argentine mining industry. The presentation, held within the supplier panel, allowed us to explain in detail how our processes and services can support mining projects of different sizes. The booth itself became a meeting point where many professionals came to learn more about our solutions.

What are your goals for the next edition?

Our immediate goal is to support mining expansion in provinces such as Mendoza and San Juan, where activity is regaining momentum. The next edition of the Expo will be held at a larger venue and represents an opportunity to consolidate new partnerships with local and regional companies. We want not only to present ourselves but also to build long-term relationships with small and mid-sized mining companies. In addition, we aim to have more time and space to engage with other participants, as many topics remained open for discussion and exchange.

What were the main lessons or reflections you took away from the experience?

Mining in Argentina has enormous potential, comparable in importance to agriculture or livestock. The sector is just beginning to reveal its full scale and will be central to the country?s economic development. That?s why we came back with a clear understanding of the industry?s new demands: traceability, technological innovation, and the need for partnerships. The Expo allowed us to adjust our approach to meet what the industry now seeks in order to keep evolving. In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to national production, local job creation, and strengthening value chains that empower mining provinces.

And what role do these kinds of events play in Bluemoon M&R?s long-term strategy?

They are crucial. They allow us to stay up to date and position the brand within the sector. They are also spaces for active listening, where we capture trends, exchange experiences, and find inspiration. They give us visibility, help us build ties with provincial chambers and associations, and show the industry that Argentina has a world-class refinery. These gatherings are part of a positioning plan aimed at both local and international markets, with the ongoing goal of consolidating trust and attracting larger-scale projects.

What similarities and differences exist between Expo Minera Calafate and PDAC in Canada?

The main difference is scale. While PDAC in Canada brings together more than 3,000 exhibitors and covers every segment of mining worldwide, Expo Minera Calafate is a more focused event, with about 80 companies and an audience concentrated on the Argentine sector. However, both are complementary: Toronto is the global showcase, while Calafate represents the opportunity to strengthen domestic ties. Participating in both arenas is key to Bluemoon?s strategy.

If you had to sum up the Expo Minera Calafate experience in one phrase, what would it be?

We return stronger, with new ideas, more partners, and the conviction that we are on the right path.