In 2026, Polyus Verninskoye ranked first in the Irkutsk Region Business Ranking for the third time. The award ceremony took place in the regional government, and Governor Igor Kobzev personally congratulated the winners. This event coincided with production of the eight-hundredth gold bar from Sukhoi Log ore at Verninskoye mill as part of the ongoing pilot processing.
Twenty companies in Irkutsk Region received awards in the 2024 ranking. Awards were presented across sectors including oil and gas, metallurgy, machinery, construction, infrastructure, forest industry and consumer goods. Selection was based on a number of performance indicators, such as financials, investments and workforce-related indicators.
«Today our economy faces many challenges, and this ranking is a symbol of progress. Your companies demonstrate both improving production performance and high social responsibility towards their employees and local communities. This reflects the commitment of strong, experienced and highly skilled professionals. You take a direct part in shaping the economic agenda of the region. I am also grateful for your dedication to the region,» Igor Kobzev said.
The award ceremony has become a good tradition for Polyus Verninskoye, which has been a winner or prizewinner in the ranking nine times. This year, Managing Director Igor Tsukurov received two awards from the governor, which included a First Place Diploma in the Metallurgy category and the Absolute Leader diploma.
«Thank you for this high recognition. Irkutsk Region has a favorable business environment for business, including gold mining. We strictly adhere to sustainability principles and prioritize safety, environmental protection, innovations and social responsibility towards our employees and the local communities. We successfully continue the pilot commercial development of the Sukhoi Log mine. It is fitting that today the Verninskoye plant produced the eight-hundredth gold bar from Sukhoi Log ore,» Igor Tsukurov, Managing Director of Polyus Verninskoye, commented.
In addition to gold mining, Polyus actively contributes to the social and economic development of Irkutsk Region. Last year, the long-awaited construction of the bridge across the Vitim River started with the Company’s support. This will provide year-round transport access to remote areas. Polyus is also supporting the reconstruction of the runway at Bodaibo airport. Once completed, these projects will ensure reliable access to mainland and make lives easier.