ASX-listed gold and base metals exploration and development company Trigg has signed a binding purchase agreement to acquire 100% of the ultrahigh-grade Spartan and Taylors Arm antimony projects in northern New South Wales from explorer Bullseye Gold after completing due diligence.

The projects are in the New England Orogen and are considered highly prospective for antimony/gold mineralisation.

The Spartan project covers parts of the Hillgrove Fault and the same rocks that host the adjacent Hillgrove antimony/gold mining operations owned by fellow ASX-listed gold and antimony mine developer Larvotto Resources.

Further, the Taylors Arm project includes Swallows Nest, Munga Creek, and Testers Mines, which have recently produced antimony. Testers Mines features massive stibnite veins grading up to 63% stibnite, which is Australia's highest-recorded antimony grade, Trigg highlights.

The projects comprise one granted tenement, for Taylors Arm, and one pending tenement application, for Spartan, across 288 km² of the New England Orogen.

"Trigg's acquisition of ultrahigh-grade antimony assets in New South Wales represents a transformative transaction for the company, significantly enhancing its strategic resource portfolio," says Trigg Minerals executive chairperson Timothy Morrison.

"The move into the antimony space positions Trigg to capitalise on the growing demand for the critical mineral and strengthens our market presence. We can achieve a strong foundation for future growth and profitability with successful exploration."

Antimony has diverse applications across key industries, including flame retardants, lead-acid batteries, glass manufacturing, and ammunition alloys. Its strategic role extends to military technologies like infrared missile guidance systems, night vision equipment, and nuclear weapons, which underscores its importance in national security.

The antimony market is primed for growth, driven by rising demand in critical sectors. Its use in PV solar cells enhances solar panel efficiency, aligning with the global shift toward renewable energy.

Stricter fire safety regulations fuel increased consumption of antimony-based flame retardants, while the expanding electric vehicle market highlights its importance in advanced battery technologies.

As global recognition of antimony’s value grows, its market will expand, reinforcing its status as a critical commodity for emerging technologies and essential industrial applications, Trigg says.

Further, the global antimony market is experiencing significant disruption and opportunity following China's decision to impose export controls on antimony ore, metal, oxides and related smelting technologies in September.

China is the world's largest producer, supplying about 50% of global output. The export controls have tightened supply, and driven prices to recent highs of $24 500/t. This is expected to increase market volatility and further emphasise antimony's strategic importance.

Owing to the risks of supply concentration, major economies, including Australia, the UK, the EU, the US and Japan, have classified antimony as a critical mineral.