C29 Metals (ASX:C29) said its Kazakhstan unit has been granted a Category 4 exploration approval for its eastern tenement, allowing the start of airborne geophysical surveys, field mapping, and soil sampling, the filing said.

The company also said it is advancing applications for Category 2 drilling permits on its southern and northern tenements.

Shares of the company fell 13% in recent trade and earlier hit an all-time low.