Hoa Phat Continues Researching to Invest in New Iron Ore Mines in Australia to Ensure Long-term Supply of at Least 50% of the Company's Iron Ore Demand (equivalent to 10 million tons per year).

 On May 28, 2021, the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) of Australia approved the acquisition of 100% stake in the Roper Valley Iron Ore Project by a subsidiary of Hoa Phat in Australia. The Roper Valley iron ore mine is estimated to have reserves of 320 million tons.

 After a period of searching and preparation, Hoa Phat has firmly stepped into the market with the world's largest iron ore supply in Australia.

 Upon completion of the transaction, Hoa Phat will become the owner of the Roper Valley Iron Ore Project with an estimated reserve of 320 million tons and an annual exploitation capacity of 4 million tons.

 Currently, Hoa Phat continues to study the investment in additional new iron ore mines in Australia to secure at least 50% of the company's long-term iron ore supply (equivalent to 10 million tons per year).

 In addition, the raw material that makes up 30% of steel prices, namely coke, is currently imported by Hoa Phat from Australia – the world's largest supplier of coke. The company is researching the possibility of acquiring some coke mines in Australia to gradually achieve self-sufficiency in this critical production material.

 Hoa Phat has also purchased two large-sized bulk carriers with a load capacity of 90,000 tons, equipped with modern engines, and built in Japan. These bulk carriers can transport a wide range of materials such as iron and steel, cement, clinker, agricultural products, and fertilizers.

 With a large volume of goods to transport each year, including tens of millions of tons of iron ore, coal, limestone, and scrap both domestically and internationally for production, Hoa Phat's ownership of bulk carriers allows the company to optimize transportation costs. Therefore, owning iron ore mines and a fleet of bulk carriers will greatly optimize Hoa Phat's production costs and reduce dependency on global commodity prices.