TORONTO, May 11 -- BARRICK Mining Corporation said its first quarter production of gold hit 719,000 ounces beating guidance of 640,000–680,000 ounces.

In their press release, Barrick Mining, who operates gold mines in North Mara and Bulyanhulu, said the success was driven by strong performances at NGM and Veladero, and the ramp-up at Loulo-Gounkoto; copper production of 49,000 tonnes in line with plan.

The statement said gold costs per ounce were better than plan, driven by efficiencies in mining and processing.

“Gold COS were 1,922 US dollars per ounce, TCC were 1,327 US dollars per ounce and AISC were 1,708 US dollars per ounce,” said the statement.

According to Barrick Mining Corporation, operating cash flow of 2....