Fresnillo PLC reported production results for the fourth quarter and full year ended December 31, 2018. For the quarter, the company reported quarterly silver production (including Silverstream) down -3.2% compared to last year 2017 due to lower volumes of ore processed and ore grade at Fresnillo and Saucito. Quarterly gold production of 232 koz, in line with fourth quarter of 2017. Total production of lead were 15,252 ton against 12,836 ton a year ago. Total production of Zinc were 24,531 ton against 18,852 ton a year ago.

For the year, the company reported record annual silver production of 61.8 moz (including Silverstream), up 5.3% compared to 2017 mainly due to the first full year of operations at San Julián (Phase II/Disseminated ore body). Annual gold production of 923 koz, up 1.3% compared to 2017 mainly due to the higher ore grade and recovery rate at Saucito, the contribution of the new Pyrites Plant and the higher ore grade at Fresnillo. Full year by-product lead and zinc production up 10.4% and 35.6% respectively compared to 2017, representing 19.9 million equivalent ounces of silver. Total production of lead were 53,181 ton against 48,153 ton a year ago. Total production of Zinc were 88,520 ton against 65,266 ton a year ago.

For the year 2019, the company's silver production expected to be slightly lower, in the range of 58 to 61 moz, including the Silverstream. Gold production expected to be flat, in the range of 910-930 koz. 2019 exploration budget of approximately USD 140 million (including capitalised exploration expenses).