Australia-listed Terramin has begun site preparation at its Tala Hamza zinc and lead project in Algeria, after authorities resolved land access constraints that had stalled progress for months.

The breakthrough followed a government-led process to acquire land and relocate nearby communities at an estimated cost of about $30 million, clearing a key obstacle that had delayed early works, including geotechnical studies.

With unrestricted access now secured, the company has moved to on-ground activities such as clearing, site access development and the establishment of operational areas.

"The commencement of site preparation at Tala Hamza marks an important milestone," Terramin executive chairman Bruce Sheng said. "The resolution of land access constraints… now allows us to move forward with on-the-ground activities."

Tala Hamza is regarded as one of the largest undeveloped zinc and lead deposits globally, with an estimated resource of about 53 million tonnes grading 5.3 per cent zinc and 1.3 per cent lead. A 2018 feasibility study outlined plans for a long-life operation of around 20 years, with annual output projected at roughly 170,000 tonnes of zinc and 30,000 tonnes of lead.

The project is majority-owned by Algerian state entities, which hold a 51 per cent stake, while Terramin retains a 49 per cent interest and management control. Senior government officials, including the prime minister, have recently visited the site, underscoring its strategic importance.

The start of preparatory work signals a shift from planning delays to early-stage development, although significant hurdles remain. Total development costs are estimated at about $471 million, and financing arrangements have yet to be finalised. Construction is expected to begin in 2026, subject to funding and further engineering work.

For Algeria, the project forms part of a broader push to expand its mining sector, which contributes only about 1 per cent of GDP, as the country seeks to reduce its reliance on oil and gas exports.

Authorities have accelerated efforts in recent months, with the Gara Djebilet iron ore mine entering production and the Bled El Hadba phosphate project also advancing.

The Tala Hamza project, if delivered as planned, could rank among the world's top zinc mines and position Algeria as a more significant player in global base metals supply, at a time when demand for industrial metals remains tied to infrastructure and energy transition needs.