
BANGKOK — Despite ongoing arbitration proceedings with the Thai government since 2017, Akara Resources Public Company Limited is optimistic about reaching a resolution by mid-2025. The case, which has been postponed to September 2025, awaits participation from Thailand’s Ministry of Industry following recent ministerial changes.
Cherdsak Utha-aroon, General Manager of Akara Resources, revealed in a January 30 interview that the company has invested over 2.6 billion baht ($77 million) in upgrading its machinery and two metallurgical plants. The renovation, completed in May 2024, has enabled the facility to operate at full capacity.
Production Goals 2025
The company reported gold production of approximately 50,000 ounces and silver production exceeding 530,000 ounces in 2024. Akara has set ambitious targets for 2025, aiming to produce 80,000-90,000 ounces of gold, with plans to increase production to 95,000-120,000 ounces in the next 2-3 years.
In partnership with Precious Metal Refining Co., Ltd. and Ossiris Co., Ltd., Akara is working to develop Thailand’s entire gold industry ecosystem. The company has contributed significantly to the Thai economy, paying over 1 billion baht ($30 million) in royalties within just 22 months from March 2023 to January 2025.
Environmental Measures

Under current regulations, mining royalties are distributed with 40% allocated to state revenue and 50% to local administrative bodies. The remaining 10% goes to sub-district administrations across the country. The company is required to maintain environmental monitoring systems and implement water management protocols as part of its operational requirements.
Recent updates to the facility include new sealed containment systems for chemical storage and water recycling infrastructure. The mining operation remains under environmental oversight, with regular monitoring of impacts on surrounding areas.
Economic and Social Impact
The company projects an annual economic contribution of 4.1 billion baht ($121 million) to the Thai economy through: support for domestic businesses, employment of approximately 1,000 local workers, and royalty payments to the government.
“The benefits could multiply if the government supports midstream and downstream industries,” says Cherdsak. “There’s potential for more gold mines, but this requires clear government policies and strategic planning based on natural resources and regional capabilities.”
The company maintains agricultural support programs and health monitoring systems for nearby communities as part of its operational requirements.
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