Quarterlytics / Financial Services / Asset Management / Centerra Gold

Centerra Gold

cg · TSX Financial Services
Claim this profile
Ticker cg
Exchange TSX
Sector Financial Services
Industry Asset Management
Employees 1001-5000
← All annual reports
FY2011 Annual Report · Centerra Gold
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
C
e
n
t
e
r
r
a
G
o
l
d
I
n
c

.

2
0
1
1
A
n
n
u
a
l

R
e
p
o
r
t

   Solid. Gold.

Centerra Gold Inc.  2011 Annual Report

Suite 1500
1 University Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
Canada  M5J 2P1
T 416.204.1953
F 416.204.1954

www.centerragold.com

Centerra Cover.indd  1

02/04/12  6:45 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
Corporate Profi le

Centerra is a Canadian-based gold mining company engaged in operating, developing, acquiring and 
exploring gold properties primarily in Asia, the former Soviet Union and other emerging markets 
worldwide. The Company is the largest Western-based gold producer in Central Asia with two operating 
gold mines located in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia. In 2011, Centerra produced 642,380 ounces 
of gold at a total cash cost of $502 per ounce produced.

Centerra’s objective is to establish annual gold production of 1.5 million ounces and build shareholder 
value by maximizing the potential of its current properties, expanding its portfolio of gold mining 
operations, continuing to increase its reserves and resources and add additional exploration properties.  
Centerra’s shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol CG. The Company is 
headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Contents

  2  Financial Highlights 

  4  President’s Message

  6  Reserves

  8   Platform for Growth

  11   2011 Year-end Gold Reserve and Resource Summary

  12   Kumtor

  14   Boroo

  16   Corporate Responsibility

  17   Management’s Discussion and Analysis  

  74   Report of Management’s Accountability

  75   Independent Auditors’ Report

  76  Consolidated Financial Statements

  80  Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 124  Definitions 

 126  Corporate Information

All dollar amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars in this report, except as otherwise indicated.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements

Certain information contained or incorporated by reference herein which are not historical facts are 
“forward-looking statements” within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the Securities 
Act (Ontario). Such forward-looking statements include forecasted gold production and cash costs for 
2012, expected 2012 capital expenditures, 2012 mining and exploration plans and forecasted expenditures 
on community investments. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors 
that could cause actual results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those 
expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For a detailed discussion of such risks and other 
factors, see the Management’s Discussion and Analysis included in this Annual Report and the Company’s 
most recent Annual Information Form which is available on SEDAR.

Although Centerra believes that the assumptions inherent in these forward-looking statements are 
reasonable, the reader should not place undue reliance on these statements. Forward-looking information 
is as of March 27, 2012. For a detailed discussion of the key assumptions and risk factors, please refer to the 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis included in this Annual Report. Centerra disclaims any intention 
or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, 
future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable laws.

Printed in Canada using VOC-free inks.

Centerra Cover.indd   2

02/04/12   6:45 AM

Thanks to a strong year, Centerra 
stands on solid ground today.

Gold Reserves and Ounces Mined

)
s
’
0
0
0
(

s
e
c
n
u
O
d
l
o
G

8,500

7,500

6,500

5,500

4,500

3,500

2,500

1,500

500

-500

-1,500

-2,500

-3,500

-4,500

-5,500

-6,500

-7,500

8.1

Reserves

million ounces

7.0

million cumulative
ounces mined 
since 2004

2004 

2005 

2006 

2007 

2008 

2009 

2010 

2011

Gold has a wholeness and integrity that has earned it the reputation of 
being not just precious, but solid. Solid in form. Solid as a standard of 
excellence… and success. In 2011, we produced more than 640,000 ounces 
of success, invested $40 million in exploration, maintained a debt-free 
fi nancial position, and increased our earnings per share. We are one of 
few mining ventures in the world today that has stayed true to gold as 
its source of business and shareholder returns. A solid commitment. 
With strong results.

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  1

Mar/31/2012  1:24 PM

     2011 ANNUAL REPORT     1

 
 
 
26%

Return on Equity
In 2011 we had a year of solid returns, delivering 
returns above many of our peers. This allows us 
to pursue future opportunities using our fi nancial 
strength and strong balance sheet.

Financial Highlights

Selected Annual Information 

2011 

2010 

2009 (1)

Revenue – millions 
Earnings before unusual items – millions 
Earnings per share before unusual items – $ per share     
Unusual items – millions 
Net earnings – millions 
Earnings per share – $ per share  
Cash provided by operations – millions 
Cash fl ow per share – $ per share  
Cash and short-term investments – millions 
Total assets – millions 
Ounces produced – 100% basis 
Total cash cost – $ per oz produced (2) 
Average realized price – $ per oz 

$1,020 
$371 
$1.57 
– 
$371 
$1.57 
$435 
$1.84 
$568 
$1,689 
642,380 
$502 
$1,569 

$850 
$322 
$1.37 
– 
$322 
$1.37 
$281 
$1.19 
$413 
$1,400 
678,941 
$440 
$1,236 

$685
$109
$0.48
$49
$60
$0.27
$246
$1.04
$323
$1,072
675,582
$459
$1,013

Revenue (1)
($ millions)

Earnings per Share (1) 
Before unusual items ($)

Cash Flow from Operations (1)
($ millions)

1,020

850

685

636

1.57

1.37

0.45

0.48

435

281

246 

166

2008  2009  2010 

2011

2008  2009  2010 

2011

2008  2009  2010 

2011

(1)  The Company’s 2009 information has not been restated to conform to IFRS and is presented in accordance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
(2) 

 As a result of Kumtor’s Restated Investment Agreement signed in 2009, total cash cost per ounce for 2009 has been restated to exclude operating and revenue-based taxes. 
Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures” in the MD&A.

2     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

 
Strong Performance

An industry comparison

Centerra share price            S&P/TSX Global Gold Index            Gold Price (London PM Fix)

CG-T Volume

D

11

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

12

F

Centerra’s 2011 results outperformed an important 
benchmark, the S&P/TSX Global Gold Index, the 
recognized bellwether of investment opportunities in 
the gold space in Canada. This performance is a solid 
vote of confi dence for more growth in a marketplace 
where fortune favours the self-assured. The stronger 
our underpinning of assets, equity and capital, the more 
boldly we can pursue the opportunities. 

We have a three point plan of action to do so: 

Operations: Get the most from the gold we already know 
is in the ground by maximizing existing operations.

Exploration: Find new ground with new sources of 
gold by expanding our exploration activities, especially 
in emerging markets.

Acquisitions: Acquire other ventures to add to our 
growth, combining the strengths, properties and assets 
with our own.

30%

20%

10%

0%

-10%

-20%

4M

3M

2M

1M

$45

million dollars is our planned investment 
in exploration in 2012. Our performance 
allows us to put our best foot forward in 
searching the world for hidden wealth 
that waits to be discovered.

24%

Return on Assets is a solid indicator of 
how we have managed ourselves into 
a strong position to make wise and 
profi table decisions about future growth.

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  3

Mar/31/2012  1:24 PM

     2011 ANNUAL REPORT     3

President’s
Message

Looking at 2011, it was a good year for the Company both 
fi nancially and operationally. The gold price reached 
an all-time high of $1,895 per ounce on the London 
PM Fix, as the fi nancial markets reacted to the negative 
fi nancial news from Europe and other countries around 
the world. With the higher gold prices, the Company 
generated record revenues and strong earnings and 
continued to build a solid debt-free balance sheet. 
The improved gold price and our strong fi nancial position 
enabled the Company to pay almost $100 million in 
dividends to shareholders during the year. 

Centerra had another strong year in exploration, 
replacing reserves mined at Kumtor, delivering initial 
resources at the Kara Beldyr JV in Russia and at 
ATO, our new discovery in Mongolia and advancing 
Öksüt, our JV in Turkey. The Company’s proven and 
probable reserves total 8.1 million contained ounces 
of gold. These reserves do not include our high-grade 
underground inferred resources at Kumtor in the 
SB Zone which totals 1.8 million contained ounces of 
gold with an average grade of 13.6 grams per tonne and 
the 629,000 contained ounces of gold with an average 
grade of 12.0 grams per tonne in the Stockwork Zone. 
Both of these mineralized structures are open along 
strike and at depth. We are continuing our exploration 
work to expand these resources as the underground 
develops and moves towards initial production in 2013.
In 2011, we achieved our production forecast with 
consolidated gold production of 642,380 ounces. Gold 
production at Kumtor was 583,156 ounces, up three 
percent for the year. At Boroo, 59,224 ounces of gold 
were produced as the site only processed stockpiled 
material during the year, since no mining activities 

were carried out and the heap leach facility remained 
idle pending issuance of a fi nal operating permit by 
government authorities. The Boroo mill continues to 
operate processing stockpiled material. We were able 
to bring back some of the mining crew this year as we 
mine the remaining reserves in Pit 6 in 2012.

Our total cash costs came in at a respectable $502 per 
ounce produced for 2011. This was a 14% increase from 
2010’s total cash cost of $440 per ounce produced due 
mainly to higher labour costs and higher diesel fuel 
prices which negatively impacted our costs.

On the fi nancial front during 2011, Centerra recorded 

net earnings of almost $371 million or $1.57 per share 
refl ecting a 27 percent increase in our realized gold 
price in the year. Also during the year, we generated 
about $435 million in cash from operations. At the end 
of the year we had $568 million of cash and short-term 
investments, as well as a $150 million undrawn credit 
facility. We also invested $188 million for the future 
of our operations and $40 million in exploration. 
We continue to be debt-free, and our gold sales remain 
unhedged, allowing us to participate in all of the upside 
of any increases in the gold price. 

For 2011, our revenues increased to $1,020 million, 
20 percent more than a year earlier, largely due to the 
positive movement in the gold prices. Our average 
realized gold price was $1,569 per ounce in 2011, up 
from $1,236 per ounce in 2010.

Looking forward in 2012, we are forecasting 
consolidated gold production to be in the range of 
450,000 to 470,000 ounces. This is down from our 
original forecast of 635,000 to 685,000 ounces due to 
increased ice movement in the southeast section of the 

4     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd   4

Mar/31/2012   1:24 PM

55%

With the rising gold price Centerra’s 
cash fl ow from operations increased 55% 
over the prior year.

pit at Kumtor which delays access to the high-grade 
SB Zone. Mining operations at Kumtor in 2012 are now 
expected to produce between 390,000 to 410,000 ounces 
of gold. The production profi le this year at Kumtor 
is back-ended with the production weighted to the 
fourth quarter. 

At Boroo, gold production for 2012 is forecast to 

be 60,000 ounces. The 2012 production forecast 
assumes no production from the heap leach facility 
or the Gatsuurt project due to uncertainties with 
permitting. The Boroo mill is expected to process 
mostly higher grade heap leach ore stockpiles for the 
fi rst eight months of 2012, followed by processing the 
higher grade ore from Pit 6 from September 2012 to 
January 2013. Receipt of the fi nal heap leach operating 
permit would add approximately 2,000 ounces of gold 
per month. At Gatsuurt, the project is ready to begin 
mining the oxide ore on receipt of the fi nal approvals 
and regulatory commissioning.

In 2012, we will continue to invest in our properties. 
Total capital expenditures are estimated to be $389 million, 
which includes $49 million of sustaining capital and 
$340 million of growth capital. Of the growth capital 
$328 million will be invested at Kumtor and $12 million 
in Mongolia. We will continue our aggressive exploration 
program investing $45 million, an increase from the 
$40 million spent in 2011. Exploration and business 
development programs will continue to focus on Asia, 
in particular Central Asia, Turkey, Russia and China to 
meet the longer term growth targets of Centerra.

I am pleased to report that in 2011 Centerra introduced 

guidelines for a level C report. Centerra has a history 
of investing in various sustainable development and 
strategic investment projects in the countries and 
communities where it operates. In 2012, total 
sustainable community investments are forecast at 
$26 million, in accordance with Centerra’s Community 
Investment policy. 

We are proud of our record of safe, responsible 
mining in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia and I 
applaud our employees for their continuous efforts in 
maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and achieving 
the production goals of the Company. I look forward 
to continuing to advance our projects in Mongolia; 
develop the underground at Kumtor; grow our reserves 
and resources and expand our exploration programs; 
and lastly, look for new growth opportunities through 
acquisitions.

On March 14, 2012, the Company announced certain 

changes in the Board of Directors and management of 
Centerra that will take effect on May 17, 2012, after our 
annual general meeting of shareholders. Mr. Patrick 
James, Director and Chair and Mr. Ian Austin, Director, 
will both retire from the Board. I will replace Mr. James 
as the Chair of the Board and will concurrently step 
down as Centerra’s President and CEO. Mr. Ian Atkinson 
will become Centerra’s new President and CEO and 
Mr. David Groves will be promoted to the position of 
Vice President, Global Exploration.

the Company’s fi rst corporate responsibility report 
which followed the Global Reporting Initiative’s 

Stephen A. Lang
President and Chief Executive Offi cer

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd   5

Mar/31/2012   1:24 PM

     2011 ANNUAL REPORT     5

Reserves.

have 8.1 million contained ounces of gold in proven and probable reserves 
– as well as 2.4 million contained ounces of gold of high-grade 
inferred resources underground at Kumtor.

+

8In 2011, we replaced the reserves we started the year with, and now 

A strong reserve base is a solid foundation for everything we do and for our future growth. 
Reserve rich companies can increase rapidly in value, and this is especially true when the 
price of gold is high, as it was in 2011. When gold prices are lower, we must look hard at the 
costs of mining it in areas that do not give it up easily. However, as prices rise, so does the 
rationale for spending more to get the gold out of the ground. Delivering greater profi tability 
from all areas of the business is a key factor for success in the gold industry.

6     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  6

Mar/31/2012  1:24 PM

Öksüt 
JV

Altunhisar 
JV

Akarca
JV

Kumtor
Mine

Boroo
Mine

Kara 
Beldyr 
JV

Dvoinoy
JV

ATO

Laogouxi
JV

Gatsuurt
Deposit

2011 Gold Production
Kumtor – 583,156 oz
Boroo – 59,224 oz

2012 Estimated Gold Production
Kumtor – 390,000 – 410,000 oz
Boroo – 60,000 oz

     2011 ANNUAL REPORT     7

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  7

02/04/12  11:33 AM

Platform 
for growth.

In 2012, we will spend over 50% of our exploration budget on our land 
holdings with a solid focus on long-term growth. We are exploring opportunities 
in Russia, China, Turkey and other territories in Central Asia and Asia.

50%

Exploration leads the way to growth for a company like Centerra. Opportunities abound 
– we just need to realize them. It takes knowledge, expertise and hard work. We are the 
largest Western-based gold producer in Central Asia, and after 15 years of operating 
there, it continues to be a solid platform for growth – particularly our properties in the 
Kyrgyz Republic and in Mongolia. We know these areas intimately, and have developed 
location-specifi c expertise in how to get the gold out of the ground. We have worked hard 
at partnering with local companies, understanding political infrastructure, and building 
relationships that will continue to grow over time. There is plenty of gold in Asia, and we 
have staked our claim to it. We have a solid case. And a competitive advantage.

8     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  8

Mar/31/2012  1:24 PM

Exploration Expenditures
(millions)

50

40

30

20

10

0

  $25 

$31 

$40 

$45

  2009 

2010 

2011 

2012E

Over 50% of 2012 exploration budget to be 
spent on our current land holdings at

• Kumtor: $15M
• Mongolia: $8M
• JV’s in Russia, Turkey, China: +$12M

Kumtor focus
• SB and Stockwork Zones
• Regional drilling

Mongolia focus
• ATO and other land holdings

Invested $40 million in exploration in 2011

Kumtor  

Mongolia  

Joint Ventures & Other

Kyrgyz Republic  

Location:  
Ownership:   100%  
Activity:  

Drilling in the Kumtor Central pit,  
underground Stockwork and SB zones,  
NE area, Sarytor and SW pits.  
Regional; Karasay and  
Koendy Projects
$13 million  

Mongolia  
100%  
ATO Discovery  
Exploration budget  
increased, drilling 
surface work continues

Turkey, Russia, China, U.S. (Nevada)
Earning interests
Drilling, mapping,
sampling, geophysics
and administration

$11 million  

$16 million

Reserves and Resources

Reserves
As of December 31, 2011, Centerra’s proven and probable reserves increased 694,000 contained ounces (before accounting 
for 2011 production) to 8.1 million ounces of contained gold, compared to 8.2 million ounces as of December 31, 2010. 
This represents an increase of 9% before accounting for 793,000 contained ounces processed at Kumtor and Boroo during 
2011. All 2011 year-end reserves were estimated using a gold price of $1,200 per ounce compared to $1,000 per ounce at 
December 31, 2010.

Kumtor’s proven and probable mineral reserves remain at 6.3 million ounces of contained gold as of December 31, 
2011. At Kumtor proven and probable reserves increased by 704,000 contained ounces of gold, before accounting for 
the processing of 709,000 contained ounces during 2011, replacing reserves mined during the year. All of the increase in 
the Central Pit open pit reserves is a result of additional exploration drilling primarily on the Southwest Extension of 
the SB Zone. This drilling has continued to outline a new zone of mineralization that lies immediately to the northwest 
of the Southwest Extension of the SB Zone. The drilling has also increased the average reserve grade for the Central Pit 
to 3.7 g/t Au, compared to 3.4 g/t Au in 2010. There has been no change in cut-off grades used for reserve estimation. 

At Boroo, proven and probable reserves total 298,000 ounces of contained gold, after accounting for the processing 

of 84,000 contained ounces during 2011. At the reserve gold price assumption, the Boroo operation could potentially 
continue to feed the mill for over two years utilizing existing low-grade stockpiles.

At Gatsuurt, proven and probable reserves remain unchanged at 1.5 million contained ounces of gold. 

     2011 ANNUAL REPORT     9

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  9

Mar/31/2012  1:24 PM

 
 
Resources 
As of December 31, 2011, Centerra’s measured and indicated resources increased by 36% or 1.8 million ounces over the 
December 31, 2010 fi gures to total 6.7 million ounces of contained gold, compared to 4.9 million contained ounces as of 
December 31, 2010 (all resource estimates are exclusive of reserves). The increase from the 2010 year-end measured and 
indicated resources is attributable to an increase in resources at Kumtor together with the addition of new resources for 
both the ATO project in Mongolia and the Kara Beldyr joint venture project in Russia. 

The Company’s inferred resources also increased by 570,000 contained ounces of gold year-over-year. At Kumtor, 
the inferred resources in the high-grade underground SB Zone increased by 393,000 contained ounces to 1.8 million 
contained ounces of gold with an average grade of 13.6 g/t. This increase is primarily a result of exploration drilling that 
has extended the strike length of the high-grade underground resources along strike to the northeast and southwest. The 
cut-off grade was lowered to 6 g/t Au, from the 7 g/t Au used in previous estimates, which refl ects updated cost estimates 
for mining, however, this has only a minimal impact on the resource estimation. Inferred open pit resources decreased 
by 65,000 contained ounces of gold in the Central Pit. In addition, exploration drilling in 2011 at the Northeast Prospect 
resulted in the addition of 150,000 contained ounces of gold to the inferred open pit resources to 278,000 ounces of 
contained gold with an improvement of grade to 2.1 g/t Au. 

The initial resource estimate for the ATO project in Mongolia has a measured and indicated resource of 824,000 ounces 

of contained gold together with signifi cant silver, lead and zinc and an inferred resource of 26,000 ounces of contained 
gold together with silver, lead and zinc.

The resource estimate on a 100% basis for the Gord Zone on the Kara Beldyr property in Russia has an indicated 
resource of 289,000 ounces of contained gold and an inferred resource of 211,000 ounces of contained gold. At the time 
of this annual report Centerra holds a 70% equity interest in the property.

Polymetallic Mineral Resources  (as of December 31, 2011)

Tonnes 
(000’s) 

Category 

Gold  Contained 

Silver  Contained 

 Grade 
(g/t) 

Gold (6)  Grade 
(g/t) 

(oz 000’s) 

Silver  Grade 
(%) 

(oz 000’s) 

Lead  Contained  Zinc  Contained
Zinc
Lead  Grade 
(lbs 000’s)
(%) 

(lbs 000’s) 

ATO Project (4)

Oxide Mineral Resources (1) (2) (4) (5) (7) (8)
(> $6.50 NSR cut-off Grade)

Measured Resources 
Indicated Resources 
Measured and Indicated 

3,345 
2,966 
6,311 

Inferred Resources (3) 

244 

1.4 
0.8 
1.1 

0.5 

146 
77 
223 

4 

8.8 
7.4 
8.2 

4.9 

950 
707 
1,657 

38 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

– 
– 
– 

– 

–
–
–

–

Sulphide Mineral Resources (1) (2) (4) (5) (7) (8)
(> $25.50 NSR cut-off Grade)

6,960 
Measured Resources 
Indicated Resources 
9,012 
Measured and Indicated  15,972 

1.4 
1.0 
1.2 

Inferred Resources (3) 

1,174 

0.6 

320 
281 
601 

22 

7.5 
7.9 
7.8 

5.2 

1,685 
2,301 
3,986 

0.864 
0.692 
0.767 

132,572 
137,486 
270,058 

1.542 
1.269 
1.388 

236,605
252,123
488,728 

196 

0.704 

18,221 

1.068 

27,642

(1) 

 Mineral resources have been estimated on the following metal prices (gold $1,200 per ounce), (silver $20 per ounce), (lead $ 0.87 per lb), (zinc $0.87 per lb). Ian Atkinson is the 
Qualifi ed Person for purposes of NI 43-101, please refer to Centerra’s MD&A, AIF and technical reports fi led on SEDAR.

(2)  Mineral resources are in addition to reserves. Mineral resources do not have demonstrated economic viability.
(3) 

 Inferred mineral resources have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to whether they can be mined economically. It cannot be assumed that all or part of the 
inferred resources will ever be upgraded to a higher category.

(4)  Centerra’s equity interest in the ATO project is 100%. 
(5)  Numbers may not add up due to rounding.
(6)  The contained gold resources have also been included in Centerra’s 2011 Year-end Gold Reserve and Resource Summary
(7) 
(8)  Variables used to calculate NSR values include:

 The ATO resources are estimated based on a Net Smelter Return cut-off grade of $6.50 NSR per tonne for oxide mineralization and $25.50 NSR per tonne for sulphide mineralization. 

Oxide total recovery of Gold=60%
Oxide total recovery of Silver=40%
Sulphide Net Smelter Return total recovery of gold=70%
Sulphide Net Smelter Return total recovery of silver=70%
Sulphide Net Smelter Return total recovery of lead=81%
Sulphide Net Smelter Return total recovery of zinc=51%
Payable royalty on total recovered gold=9.0%
Payable royalty on total recovered silver=6.75%
Payable royalty on total recovered lead=6.75%
Payable royalty on total recovered zinc=6.75%

10     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

_Centerra_Page 10-12.indd   10

02/04/12   7:02 AM

 
 
 
2011 Year-end Gold Reserve and Resource Summary

(as of December 31, 2011) 

Gold Mineral Reserves (9) (20) (21)
(tonnes and ounces in thousands)

Proven 

Probable 

Total Proven and Probable

Property (11) 

Kumtor (13) 
Boroo (15) 
Gatsuurt (16) (23) 
Total 

Tonnes 

(g/t) 

3,023 
8,767 
– 
11,790 

1.6 
0.8 
– 
1.0 

  Grade  Contained 

Gold (oz)  Tonnes 

  Grade  Contained 
(g/t)  Gold (oz) 

  Grade  Contained
(g/t)  Gold (oz)

Tonnes 

153 
215 
– 
368 

56,671 
891 
16,349 
73,911 

3.4 
2.9 
2.8 
3.2 

6,125 
    83 
1,489 
7,697 

59,694 
9,658 
16,349 
85,701 

3.3 
1.0 
2.8 
2.9 

6,278
298
1,489
8,065

Gold Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources (10) (20) (21)
(tonnes and ounces in thousands)

Measured 

Indicated 

Total Measured and Indicated

  Grade  Contained 

Gold (oz)  Tonnes 

  Grade  Contained 
(g/t)  Gold (oz) 

  Grade  Contained
(g/t)  Gold (oz)

Tonnes 

Property (11) 

Kumtor (12) (13) 
Boroo (12) (15) 
Gatsuurt (12) (16) (23) 
Ulaan Bulag (17) 
ATO (18) 
Kara Beldyr (19) 
Total 

Tonnes 

(g/t) 

43,262 
452 
– 
– 
10,305 
– 
54,019 

2.3 
2.2 
– 
– 
1.4 
– 
2.1 

Gold Inferred Mineral Resources (10) (20) (21) (22)
(tonnes and ounces in thousands)

Property (11) 

Kumtor Open Pit (12) (13) 
Kumtor SB Underground (14) 
Kumtor Stockwork Underground (14) 
Boroo (12) (15) 
Gatsuurt (12) (16) (23) 
Ulaan Bulag (17) 
ATO (18) 
Kara Beldyr (19) 
Total 

3,141 
     32 
– 
– 
   466 
– 
3,639 

22,687 
4,464 
5,533 
1,555 
11,978 
3,790 
50,007 

2.3 
1.5 
2.4 
1.5 
0.9 
2.4 
1.9 

1,658 
210 
426 
  73 
358 
289 
3,014 

65,949 
4,916 
5,533 
1,555 
22,283 
3,790 
104,026 

2.3 
1.5 
2.4 
1.5 
1.2 
2.4 
2.0 

4,799
242
426
  73
824
289 
6,653

  Grade  Contained
(g/t)  Gold (oz)

Tonnes 

9,195 
4,040 
1,633 
7,323 
5,926 
   315 
1,418 
3,354 
33,204 

2.4 
13.6 
12.0 
1.0 
2.6 
1.3 
0.6 
2.0 
3.8 

694 
1,760 
629 
235 
491 
 13 
 26 
211 
4,059

  (9) 

 The mineral reserves have been estimated based on a gold price of $1,200 per ounce. Ian Atkinson is the Qualifi ed Person for purposes of NI 43-101, please refer to Centerra’s 
MD&A, AIF and technical reports fi led on SEDAR.

 (10)  Mineral resources are in addition to reserves. Mineral resources do not have demonstrated economic viability.
 (11) 

 Centerra’s equity interests as of this annual report are: Kumtor 100%, Gatsuurt 100%, Boroo 100%, Ulaan Bulag 100%, ATO 100% and Kara Beldyr 70%. All contained ounces in 
table above are shown on a 100% basis.

 (12)  Open pit resources occur outside the current ultimate pits which have been designed using a gold price of $1,200 per ounce.
 (13) 

 The open pit reserves and resources at Kumtor are estimated based on a cut-off grade of 0.85 gram of gold per tonne for the Central Pit and 1.0 grams of gold per tonne for the 
Southwest, Sarytor and Northeast deposits.

 (14)  Underground resources occur below the Central pit and are estimated based on a cut-off grade of 6.0 grams of gold per tonne.
 (15)  The open pit reserves and resources at Boroo are estimated based on a 0.5 gram of gold per tonne cut-off grade. 
 (16) 

 The open pit reserves and resources at Gatsuurt are estimated using either a 1.2, 1.4 or 1.5 grams of gold per tonne cut-off grade depending on ore type and process method and 
include the Central Zone and Main Zone deposits.

 (17)  The open pit resources at Ulaan Bulag are estimated on a cut-off grade of 0.8, 0.9 or 1.0 grams of gold per tonne depending on ore type and process method.
 (18) 

 The ATO open pit resources are estimated based on a Net Smelter Return (NSR) cut-off grade of $6.50 NSR per tonne for oxide mineralization and $25.50 NSR per tonne for 
sulphide mineralization

 (19)  The open pit resources at Kara Beldyr are estimated based on a 1.0 gram of gold per tonne cut-off grade and the contained ounces are shown on a 100% basis.
 (20)  A conversion factor of 31.10348 grams per ounce of gold is used in the reserve and resource estimates. 
 (21)  Numbers may not add up due to rounding.
 (22) 

 Inferred mineral resources have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to whether they can be mined economically. It cannot be assumed that all or part of 
the inferred resources will ever be upgraded to a higher category.
 In July 2009, the Mongolian Parliament enacted legislation that would prohibit mineral prospecting, exploration and mining in water basins and forest areas in the territory of 
Mongolia and provides for the revocation of mining and exploration licences affecting such areas. The legislation exempts any “mineral deposit of strategic signifi cance”. If the 
legislation is not repealed or amended or if Gatsuurt is not designated as a “mineral deposit of strategic importance” that is exempt from this legislation, mineral reserves at 
Gatsuurt may have to be reclassifi ed as mineral resources or eliminated entirely.

 (23) 

_Centerra_Page 10-12.indd   11

02/04/12   7:02 AM

     2011 ANNUAL REPORT     11

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Kumtor

Centerra owns 100 percent of the Kumtor gold mine which is located in the Kyrgyz Republic, about 350 kilometres 
southeast of the capital Bishkek and about 60 kilometres north of the border with the People’s Republic of China.  
It is the largest gold mine operated in Central Asia by a Western-based company, having produced more than 
8.4 million ounces of gold between 1997 and the end of 2011.

Production (100%)   

2004  

2005  

2006 

2007 (2) 2008 (2)

2009 (2)

2010 

2011

Ore mined (thousands of tonnes)   
Ore milled (thousands of tonnes)  
Average mill head grade (grams/tonne)   
Recovery (%)   
Gold produced (thousands of ounces) (1)  
Total Cash Cost (2)
Per tonne milled – ($) 
Per ounce produced – ($)  

3,303  
5,654  
4.4  
82.1  
657  

6,135  
5,649  
3.4  
81.2  
501  

3,887 
5,696 
2.3 
73.0 
304 

5,182 
5,545 
2.4 
72.7 
301 

4,967 
5,577 
3.9 
79.7 
556 

23.24 
200 

24.40 
274 

28.99 
544 

29.28 
540 

43.65 
438 

4,464 
5,780 
3.7 
76.7 
525 

41.80 
460 

5,765 
5,594 
4.0 
79.5 
568 

6,020
5,815
3.8
80.8
583

41.50 (3) 48.38
482

409 (3)

Notes:
(1)  Centerra’s equity interest is 100% following the 2004 initial public offering.
(2) 

 As a result of Kumtor’s Restated Investment Agreement signed in 2009, operating costs and total cash cost per ounce produced for 2009, 2008 and 2007 
have been restated to exclude operating and revenue-based taxes. Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is described under 
“Non-GAAP Measures” in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis accompanying this annual report.

(3)  Restated to exclude community investments costs.

Mining the Central Pit
During 2011, Kumtor produced 583,156 ounces of gold from the SB Zone in the Central Pit. Gold production for 
the year was 3% greater than 2010 due to processing more tonnes of ore as a result of the higher availability of the 
mill in 2011 at 94% compared to 91% in 2010. The average recovery in 2011 was slightly better than 2010 due to 
the constant metallurgical feed grade which had a positive effect. Total cash cost per ounce produced was $482, 
an increase over 2010 levels due to the higher operating costs related to an increase in labour costs and increased 
costs for diesel fuel.

Mining operations at Kumtor in 2012 will be accelerated in the southwest portion of the Kumtor Pit, to access 
part of the new reserves found in 2011 to provide higher grade ore for the Kumtor mill. Gold production from the 
mine is expected to be between 390,000 and 410,000 ounces in 2012 down from the original forecast of 575,000 to 
625,000 ounces as the scheduled access to the high-grade SB Zone has been delayed due to increased ice movement. 
The delay results in deferring production from the high-grade SB Zone expected in 2012 into 2013–2015. The revised 
production profi le will continue to be weighted to the fourth quarter.

Replacing reserves
In 2011, Kumtor successfully replaced the reserves it mined in the Central Pit as a result of additional drilling 
done on the Southwest Extension of the SB Zone. Proven and probable reserves at Kumtor as of December 31, 2011 
total 6.3 million ounces of contained gold (see “2011 Year-end Gold Reserve and Resource Summary”). The 2011 
drilling continued to outline a new zone of mineralization that lies immediately to the northwest of the Southwest 
Extension of the SB Zone. The drilling has also increased the average reserve grade for the Central Pit to 3.7 g/t Au, 
compared to 3.4 g/t Au in 2010 with no change in cut-off grades used for reserve estimation. 

At Kumtor, the inferred underground resources in the high-grade SB Zone increased by 393,000 ounces to 
1.8 million contained ounces of gold with an average grade of 13.6 g/t as a result of exploration drilling that has 
extended the strike length of the high-grade underground resources along strike to the northeast and southwest. 
The cut-off grade was lowered to 6 g/t Au, from the 7 g/t Au used in previous estimates, which refl ects updated cost 
estimates for mining; however, this has only a minimal impact on the resource estimation. Inferred underground 
resources in the Stockwork Zone total 629,000 contained ounces of gold with an average grade of 12.0 g/t.

12      CENTERRA GOLD INC.

_Centerra_Page 10-12.indd  12

02/04/12  7:02 AM

Continuing underground development
In 2011, the Company advanced construction of the underground access to the high-grade SB Zone and Stockwork 
Zone to defi ne and explore the high-grade resource at depth. At year-end, total development advance was 
1,864 metres, which includes 903 metres advance in Decline #1 (SB Zone decline) and 961 metres in Decline #2 
(Stockwork Zone decline). The Stockwork Drive reached its design limit in October 2011 and delineation drilling 
of the Stockwork Zone is ongoing.  

The underground development project at Kumtor is on track to achieve the connection of Decline #1 with 
Decline #2 in the third quarter of 2012. The connection will provide for improved fl ow-through ventilation of 
the underground development. Decline #1 has approximately 125 metres of development advance remaining 
and Decline #2 has approximately 660 metres of development advance remaining to join the two declines. 
An additional 708 metres of development advance is required in order to access the SB Zone. First ore from the 
SB Zone is expected in the second quarter of 2013.

Decline #2 will facilitate the access for exploration drilling to test down dip extensions in the area referred to as 
the Saddle Zone located between the SB and Stockwork Zones. During 2012 drilling will continue from Decline #1 
to test the new zone of mineralization on the Southwest Extension of the SB Zone and the down dip extensions 
of the SB Zone.

Kumtor Cost Performance 2009–2011 

Annual Operating Costs ($ millions)
  Mining 
  Milling 

Site administration (1) 
  Bishkek administration (1) 
  Management fees 
  Production taxes and royalties (1) 
  By-product credits 
  Other 
Total operating costs (1) 
Unit operating costs
Mining costs ($/t mined material) 
Milling costs ($/t milled material) 
Total operating costs ($/t milled material) (1) 
Total cash costs ($/oz produced) (1) (2) 

2009 

2010 

2011

132.2 
54.7 
39.2 
15.3 
0.6 
– 
(1.9) 
1.5 
241.6 

1.14 
9.46 
41.80 
460 

123.3 
56.1 
36.8 (3) 
15.6 
0.6 
– 
(2.8) 
2.6 
232.2 (3) 

1.06 (2) 

10.03 
41.50 (3) 
409 (3) 

157.8
63.5
47.2
15.4
0.6
–
(6.2)
3.0
281.3

1.32 (2)

10.92
48.38
482

Notes:
(1) 

 As a result of Kumtor’s Restated Investment Agreement signed in 2009, operating costs and total cash cost per ounce produced for 2009 has been 
restated to exclude operating and revenue-based taxes. Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is described under 
“Non-GAAP Measures” in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis accompanying this annual report.

(2)  Unit mining costs excludes $10.9 million and $39.4 million of capitalized pre-stripping costs in 2010 and 2011, respectively.
(3)  Restated to exclude community investments costs.

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  13

Mar/31/2012  1:24 PM

     2011 ANNUAL REPORT     13

 
Boroo

Centerra Gold owns a 100 percent interest in the Boroo mine which is located 110 kilometres northwest of 
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital. Although this is a relatively remote part of the world, Boroo is within three 
kilometres of the all-weather Ulaanbaatar–Irkutsk highway and enjoys easy access to the Trans-Mongolian 
railway. This open-pit operation began commercial production in the fi rst quarter of 2004 and has produced 
approximately 1.6 million ounces of gold through the end of 2011.

Production (100%)   

2004  

2005  

2006 

2007 

2008 

2009 

2010 

2011

Heap leach material mined 
  (thousands of tonnes) 
Ore mined direct millfeed 
  (thousands of tonnes)  
Ore milled (thousands of tonnes)  
Average mill head grade (grams/tonne)  
Recovery (%) (1) 
Gold produced 
  (thousands of ounces) (2) (3)  
Total Cash Cost (4)
Per tonne milled – ($)  
Per ounce produced – ($)  

– 

– 

– 

3,601 

3,629 

3,481 

1,694 

–

1,884  
1,850  
4.5  
93.7  

2,865  
2,231  
4.2  
91.5  

3,082 (1)
2,387 
4.3 
87.0 

2,362 
2,549 
3.6 
85.3 

2,416 
2,496 
2.7 
77.7 

2,913 
2,077 
2.6 
72.9 

2,399 
2,466 
1.9 
71.8 

–
2,340
1.1
68.9

246  

286  

283 

255 

193 

151 

111 

59

17.57  
149  

23.49  
183  

25.77 
217 

24.35 
244 

29.52 
382 

33.04 
456 

27.08 (5)
601 (5)

17.56
694

Notes:
(1)  Excludes heap leach ore.
(2)  Gold produced in 2004 includes pre-commissioning production for January and February of 2004.
(3)  Centerra’s equity interest is 100% from October 17, 2007.
(4) 

 Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is described under “Non-GAAP Measures” in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
accompanying this annual report and represents post-commissioning production costs from March 1, 2004.

(5)  Restated to exclude community investment costs.

Good performance
The Boroo mine produced 59,224 ounces of gold at a total cash cost of $694 per ounce produced in 2011. While 
continuing to perform well, gold production was lower than 2010 due to the processing of stockpiled materials 
with lower mill head grades, and lower recoveries as a result of no mining activities, which ceased at the end of 
November 2010. The higher total cash costs resulted from the 47% decrease in produced ounces.

At Boroo the 2012 production profi le is approximately 60,000 ounces of gold and assumes mining of Pit 6, which 

started in January 2012. The Company’s production profi le for Boroo in 2012 does not include any production 
from the heap leach facility or from the Gatsuurt project due to the uncertainties with permitting. The Gatsuurt 
project has been delayed due to not receiving the necessary approvals and regulatory commissioning because of 
the Mongolian Water and Forest Law. See “Other Corporate Developments – Mongolia” in the Management’s 
Discussion and Analysis accompanying this annual report.  

The Boroo mill is expected to process mostly higher grade heap leach ore stockpiles for the fi rst eight months 

of 2012, followed by processing the higher grade ore from Pit 6 from September 2012 to January 2013. During 
September to December 2012, the Boroo mill is expected to process a mixture of higher grade Pit 6 ore with 
an average grade of approximately 2.1 g/t and stockpiled heap leach material with grades between 0.67-0.76 g/t. 
Total cash cost for 2012 is expected to be $810 per ounce produced.

Receipt of the fi nal heap leach operating permit at Boroo would add approximately 2,000 ounces of gold per 

month. At Gatsuurt, the project is ready to begin mining the oxide ore on receipt of the fi nal approvals and 
regulatory commissioning.

14      CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  14

Mar/31/2012  1:24 PM

Boroo Cost Performance 2009–2011 

Annual Operating Costs ($ millions)
  Mining 
  Milling 
  Leaching 

Site administration 

  Ulaanbaatar administration 
  Production taxes and royalties 
  By-product credits 
  Other 
Total operating costs 
Unit operating costs
  Mining costs ($/t mined material) 
  Milling costs ($/t milled material) 
  Leaching costs ($/t material stacked) 
  Leaching costs ($/t material leached) 
Total operating costs ($/t milled material) 
Total cash costs ($/oz produced) (1) 

2009 

2010 

2011

20.0 
17.8 
6.7 
8.0 
8.0 
8.0 
(0.4) 
0.5 
68.6 

1.61 
8.57 
1.37 
0.76 
33.04 
456 

20.5 
21.1 
2.3 
8.3 
6.7 (2) 
7.2 
(0.3) 
0.9 
66.8 (2) 

1.81 
8.57 
2.32 
0.53 
27.08 (2) 
601 (2) 

2.1
21.0
0.3
7.7
6.0
3.9
(0.3)
0.4
41.1

–
8.99
–
0.76
17.56
694

(1) 

 Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is described under “Non-GAAP Measures” in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis 
accompanying this annual report.

(2)  Restated to exclude community investments costs.

Gatsuurt

The Gatsuurt project is approximately 35 kilometres from the Boroo mine and is connected to the Boroo mine site 
by a 55 kilometre road. The Gatsuurt project is ready to begin production of the oxide ore on receipt of the fi nal 
approvals and regulatory commissioning from the Mongolian authorities. The plan is to truck the Gatsuurt ore 
for processing at Boroo. First, the oxide ore from Gatsuurt would be processed through the existing Boroo mill 
facilities which would then be followed by the Gatsuurt sulphide ore, after the mill has been modifi ed to 
accommodate the ore. The Boroo processing facility will have to be modifi ed to include a bio-oxidation circuit 
to recover gold from the refractory Gatsuurt ore.

For 2012, no capital has been forecast for the development of the deeper sulphide ores at Gatsuurt and will 
only be invested following successful regulatory commissioning of the Gatsuurt project. The engineering and 
construction of the bio-oxidation facility to be located at the Boroo mill, which is needed to treat Gatsuurt 
sulphide ores, will be restarted only after the approval to begin mining at Gatsuurt has been received from 
Mongolian authorities.

2011_Centerra_Page 1-15.indd  15

Mar/31/2012  1:24 PM

     2011 ANNUAL REPORT     15

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
100%

is our goal for the corporate responsibilities accepted by a company like ours 
in the business we are in. We are proud of our participation in the far-off communities 
partnering with locals for social and economic development creating value 
for everyone. In the co-operative relationship that results from our involvement, 
we stand solid on the highest principles of corporate citizenship.

A Solid Citizen.

Implementing responsible mining practices and aligning our operations with international standards are essential 
for the growth of a responsible resource company. Wherever we operate, a key measure of success is that our 
stakeholders, including our employees and the neighbouring communities, gain signifi cant benefi ts from our 
activity. Our approach to creating value is simple. We are open about our mining activities and we approach 
corporate responsibility by engaging stakeholders – groups who infl uence or are infl uenced by our activities or 
performance. In all of its operations, Centerra strives to meet the highest international standards, including the 
Performance Standards of the International Finance Corporation and the Sustainable Development Framework 
of the International Council of Mining and Metals. Additionally, Centerra has played an active role in promoting 
the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (“EITI”) in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia. The Company’s 
mines in these countries were among the fi rst to sign on, report and help improve EITI infrastructure in their 
respective countries and in 2011 Centerra became a supporting company of the EITI.

16     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

Centerra Text.indd   16

Mar/28/2012   12:15 PM

MANAGEMENT’S 
DISCUSSION 
AND 
ANALYSIS

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2011

18  Centerra’s Business
19  Gold Industry, Key Economics and 

Recent Market Uncertainty

21  Growth and Strategy
26  Selected Annual Information
27  Results

  Overview of 2011 Versus 2010
  Results of Operating Segments
  Fourth Quarter Results
  Quarterly Results – Last Eight Quarters

42  Balance Sheet

  Asset Retirement Obligations
  Gold Hedging and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
  Liquidity and Capital Resources

44  Contractual Obligations
44  Non-GAAP Measures
50  Critical Accounting Estimates
52  Changes in Accounting Policies
53  Disclosure Controls and Procedures and 

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

53  Sustainable Development
53  2012 Outlook
58  Qualified Person & QA/QC
59  Risk Factors
72  Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information

2011_Centerra_Page 17-18.indd   17

Mar/31/2012   1:26 PM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     17

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following discussion has been prepared as of February 23, 2012, and is intended to provide a review of the 
fi nancial position of Centerra Gold Inc. (“Centerra” or the “Company”) as at and for the fi nancial year ended 
December 31, 2011 and results of operations in comparison with those as at and for the fi nancial year ended 
December 31, 2010. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the Company’s audited fi nancial 
statements and notes thereto for the year ended December 31, 2011 prepared in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards. In addition, this discussion contains certain forward-looking information 
regarding Centerra’s businesses and operations. See “Risk Factors” and “Caution Regarding Forward-Looking 
Information” in this discussion. All dollar amounts are expressed in United States (US) dollars, except as 
otherwise indicated. Additional information about Centerra,  including the Company’s Annual Information Form 
for the year ended December 31, 2011, will be available on the Company’s website at www.centerragold.com and 
on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (“SEDAR”) at www.sedar.com. 

CONVERSION TO IFRS

As prescribed by the CICA Accounting Standards Board, the Company adopted the requirements of the 
International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) in its statements of account as of January 1, 2011, including 
the restatement of its opening balance sheet of January 1, 2010. The restatement of the Company’s comparative 
balances from those previously reported under Canadian GAAP standards to those converted IFRS standards is 
fully explained and reconciled in note 33 of the Company’s December 31, 2011 consolidated fi nancial statements 
as fi led on SEDAR.

CENTERRA’S BUSINESS

Centerra is a Canadian-based gold company, focused on acquiring, exploring, developing and operating gold 
properties in Asia, the former Soviet Union and other emerging markets world-wide. Centerra’s common shares 
are listed for trading on the Toronto Stock Exchange. As of February 23, 2012, being the date of this Management’s 
Discussion and Analysis (“MD&A”), there are 236,353,942 common shares issued and outstanding.

As  of December 31, 2011, Centerra’s assets consist of a 100% interest in the Kumtor mine, located in the Kyrgyz 

Republic, a 100% interest in the Boroo mine and a 100% interest in the Gatsuurt development property, both 
located in Mongolia, a 50% interest in the Kara Beldyr property in Russia (subsequently increased to 70% in 
January 2012), a 50% interest in the Öksüt property in Turkey and 100% interest in various exploration and 
advanced exploration properties including the Altan Tsagaan Ovoo (“ATO”) property in northeast Mongolia. 
Additionally, the Company is earning an interest in other joint venture exploration properties located in Russia, 
Turkey, China, the United States (Nevada) and Mongolia.

Substantially all of Centerra’s revenues are derived from the sale of gold. The Company’s revenues are derived 
from production volumes from its mines and gold prices realized. Gold doré   production from the Kumtor mine is 
purchased by Kyrgyzaltyn JSC (“Kyrgyzaltyn”) for processing at its refi nery in the Kyrgyz Republic while gold 
doré produced by the Boroo mine is exported and until September 30, 2011 sold under a refi ning agreement with 
Johnson Matthey Limited (“JM”). Pursuant to the agreement with JM, the gold doré can also be sold (at the 
Company’s election) to a third party who has an account with JM. In September 2011, the Company’s subsidiary 
that owns the Boroo mine entered into a master sale agreement with Auramet Trading LLC (“Auramet”) for this 
purpose. As a result, starting in October 2011 the gold doré from Boroo continued to be shipped to JM for refi ning 
but the product was sold to Auramet at agreed market terms. Sales to JM under the refi ning agreement are based 
on the afternoon fi xing price on the London Bullion Market (“London PM fi x”), whereas sales under the Auramet 
master sale agreement are based on spot gold prices. The Gatsuurt property is in the development phase. The 
Kara Beldyr, Öksüt and other Russian, Turkish, Chinese and Mongolian properties are in the exploration phase.

In 2011, the Company’s two mines produced a total of 642,380 ounces of gold, ranking Centerra as an 

intermediate-sized North American-based gold producer. 

18     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 17-18.indd   18

Mar/31/2012   1:26 PM

The average spot price for gold in 2011 based on the London PM fi x was $1,572 per ounce, an increase of 28% 

over the average in 2010. This follows year-over-year increases of 26% in 2010 and 11% in 2009. The average 
realized price of gold received by Centerra in 2011 was $1,569 per ounce. Historically, gold has been seen to be 
a hedge against infl ation and U.S. dollar weakness. A number of factors continue to support the strengthening 
of the gold price, including a general wariness with respect to the stability of the U.S. dollar, sustainability of 
sovereign debt levels, concerns about the possibility of infl ation stemming from aggressive economic stimulus 
programs, heightened equity market volatility and an increase in the demand for gold for investment purposes 
(see the discussion below under “Gold Industry, Key Economic Trends and Recent Market Uncertainty”).

The Company’s costs are comprised primarily of the cost of producing gold from its two mines, its joint 
venture projects, administrative costs from the Toronto, Bishkek, Ulaanbaatar and other exploration offi ces 
worldwide and secondarily from depreciation and depletion. There are many operating variables that affect the 
cost of producing an ounce of gold.

In the mine, costs are infl uenced by the ore grade and the stripping ratio. The stripping ratio means the 

tonnage of waste material which must be removed to allow the mining of one tonne of ore. The ore grade refers 
to the amount of gold contained in a tonne of ore. The signifi cant costs of mining are labour, diesel fuel and 
equipment maintenance.

In the mill, costs are dependent mainly on the ore grade and the metallurgical characteristics of the ore which 

can impact gold recovery. For example, a higher grade ore would typically contribute to a lower unit production 
cost. The signifi cant costs of milling are reagents, consumables, mill maintenance and energy.

Both mining and milling costs are affected by labour costs, which depend on the availability of qualifi ed 

personnel in the regions where the operations are located, the wages in those markets, and the number of people 
required. Mining and milling activities involve the use of many materials. The varying costs of acquiring these 
materials and the amount used in the processing of the ore also infl uence the cash costs of mining and milling. 
The non-cash costs are infl uenced by the amount of costs related to the mine’s acquisition, development and 
ongoing capital requirements and the estimated useful lives of capital items.

Over the life of each mine, another signifi cant cost that must be planned for is the closure, reclamation and 

decommissioning of each operating site. In accordance with standard practices for Western-based mining 
companies, Centerra carries out remediation and reclamation work during the operating period of the mine, 
where feasible, in order to reduce the fi nal decommissioning costs. Nevertheless, the majority of rehabilitation 
work can only be performed following the completion of mining operations. Centerra’s practice is to record 
estimated fi nal decommissioning costs based on conceptual closure plans, and to disclose these costs according 
to the principles of IFRS. In addition, Kumtor has established a reclamation trust fund to pay for these costs 
(net of forecast salvage value of assets) from the revenues generated over the life of mine. Annually Boroo 
deposits 50% of the upcoming year’s annual reclamation budget into a government account and recovers this 
money when the annual reclamation commitments are completed.

GOLD INDUSTRY, KEY ECONOMICS AND RECENT MARKET UNCERTAINTY

The two principal uses of gold are product fabrication and bullion investment. A broad range of end uses 
is included within the fabrication category, the most signifi cant of which is the production of jewelry. 
Other fabrication uses include offi cial coins, electronics, miscellaneous industrial and decorative uses, medals 
and medallions.

Global gold industry production is expected to grow at a modest rate over the next few years after signifi cant 
growth from 1995 to 2001 followed by virtually fl at production levels through to 2008. The growth in production 
beginning in 2009 and expected in the coming few years is a function of a higher gold price which has made 
previously marginal deposits economically viable. Centerra believes the cost of gold production in U.S. dollar 
terms is rising globally due primarily to a declining quality of reserves at producing mines, higher costs of 
construction and equipment and higher cost of labour and certain consumables. There has been signifi cant 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   19

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     19

consolidation among gold producers since 2002, and this is expected to continue as established producers seek to 
replenish reserves and junior producers seek capital. To replace mined reserves, producers are exploring in new 
regions because there are fewer remaining opportunities in conventional gold mining locations.

As well as supply factors internal to the industry, described above, external factors impact the gold price. 
One of these important factors is the trade-weighted U.S. dollar exchange rate. Historically, there has been a 
strong inverse correlation between the trade-weighted U.S. dollar exchange rate and the gold price resulting in 
a positive gold price trend during extended periods of U.S. dollar weakness. Notwithstanding periods in which 
this correlation at times breaks down, as witnessed in the recent years of global fi nancial crisis, in general a weak 
U.S. dollar is positive for gold. Another factor affecting the gold price which has gained in importance is 
investment demand. Since the beginning of the global fi nancial crisis in late 2007, investor demand for gold has 
signifi cantly increased. The protracted period of fi nancial instability, high unemployment and stagnant economic 
growth in developed countries, combined with increasing sovereign debt levels as governments endeavour to 
stimulate an economic recovery have shaken investor confi dence in traditional investment vehicles in favour of 
gold as a safe haven. Investor demand via gold exchange traded funds (“ETF’s”) which allow investors to more 
directly invest in gold without holding the physical asset is expected to have increased by approximately 15%, 
year-over-year, in 2011, notwithstanding a level of disinvestment at times during the year when investors sold 
their investments to cover losses in other investment vehicles in their portfolio. Whilst investment in ETFs has 
continued to grow, total investment demand in 2011 is expected to have declined, year-over-year. This may be 
attributable to periods of higher risk aversion which saw investors shift to the U.S. dollar as a safe haven. In 
addition, the latter part of the fourth quarter saw signifi cant gold selling as investors monetized their gold 
holdings to rebalance investment portfolios and cover losses. Consumers also became more reluctant to invest 
in gold as prices for the metal hit record highs in the third quarter. Investor sentiment towards gold can thus 
have a material impact on the gold price.

Other factors that have impacted the gold price include central bank reserves management, producer hedging/

de-hedging activity, and geopolitical concerns.

The Company believes that fundamentals remain positive for gold in the coming year. Burgeoning federal 

defi cits in the U.S. resulting from economic stimulus measures are expected to weaken the U.S. dollar and 
ultimately usher in a period of higher infl ation. The role of gold as a hedge against infl ation would support 
continued demand for the metal as would growing appetite by central banks and developing Asian nations 
seeking a more reliable store of value as compared with other investments. In addition, as governments seek to 
stimulate economic growth, a shift to more accommodative monetary policies would also be positive for gold. 
Doubts in respect of an eventual resolution to sovereign debt levels, particularly in the Eurozone and the United 
States, and the effectiveness of measures to promote economic growth in these countries could also support 
continued interest in gold.

Financial liquidity provides the Company’s with the ability to fund future operating activities and investments. 
Centerra has two operating mines located in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia. Centerra generated $434.9 million 
in cash from operations in 2011 and has a balance of cash and short-term investments of $568.2 million at 
December 31, 2011. The Company’s fi nancial risk management policy focuses on cash preservation, while 
maintaining the liquidity necessary to conduct operations on a day-to-day basis. The Company manages 
counterparty credit risk, in respect of cash and short-term investments, by maintaining bank accounts with 
highly-rated U.S. and Canadian banks and investing only in highly-rated Canadian and U.S. Government bills, 
term deposits or banker’s acceptances with highly-rated fi nancial institutions, and corporate direct credit of 
highly-rated, highly-liquid issuers. The Company has no outstanding debt, and it is expected that all planned 
capital and operating expenditures can be funded out of cash fl ow for 2012. See “Caution Regarding Forward-
Looking Information”.

20     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   20

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Continued uncertainty in global fi nancial markets has constrained the ability of many companies to access 
capital markets fi nancing. Although Centerra has no current requirements for such funding, fi nancial markets 
have retained an interest in gold producers and, under the right conditions, equity issues of many of these 
producers have been well received. In November 2010, Centerra secured a three-year, $150 million revolving 
credit facility to increase liquidity available for future growth initiatives. The Company may also contemplate 
an equity issue to support such growth initiatives. See “Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information”.

The following table shows the average afternoon gold price fi xing, by quarter, on the London Bullion Market 

for 2010, and 2011:

Quarter 

2010 Q1 
2010 Q2 
2010 Q3 
2010 Q4 
2011 Q1 
2011 Q2 
2011 Q3 
2011 Q4 

Average Gold Price ($)

1,109
1,197
1,227
1,367
1,386
1,506
1,702
1,688

GROWTH AND STRATEGY 

Centerra’s growth strategy is to increase its reserve base and expand its current portfolio of mining operations by:

•  developing new reserves at or near its existing mines from in-pit and underground sources;
•  advancing late-stage exploration properties, including properties earned into through the use of joint 

venture vehicles, through drilling and feasibility studies, as warranted; and

•  actively pursuing selective acquisitions in Asia, the former Soviet Union and opportunistically other 

emerging markets worldwide.

Centerra’s growth strategy could be impacted by the risk factors described on page 59.
During 2011, the Company continued its exploration drilling activities in and around the Kumtor mine site and 

on its various advanced exploration projects in the Asian region. On February 9, 2012, the Company released the 
results of the updated reserve and resource estimates for the Kumtor and Boroo mines and updated its resource 
profi le for its advanced projects providing estimates on the Company’s reserves and resources as of December 31, 
2011. Overall, the Company was successful in replacing the reserves it mined in the Kumtor Central Pit during 
2011, thereby increasing its total proven and probable reserves by 694,000 contained ounces, an increase of 9% 
(before accounting for the processing of 793,000 contained ounces in 2011 at its Kumtor and Boroo operations), 
to 8.1 million ounces of contained gold. Measured and indicated resources increased by 36% or 1.8 million ounces 
when compared to December 31, 2010 to total 6.7 million ounces of contained gold, from additions around the 
Central pit at Kumtor, the new discovery at the Altan Tsagaan Ovoo (“ATO”) project in Mongolia and from 
the Kara Beldyr joint venture project in Russia. Inferred resources were also increased at Kumtor’s high-grade 
SB Underground project and at the Kara Beldyr project, of which Centerra currently owns a 70% interest. 
The 2011 year-end reserves and resources were estimated using a gold price of $1,200 per ounce compared 
to $1,000 per ounce in 2010. See the “2011 Year-end Gold Reserve and Resource Summary” table and the 
“Polymetallic Mineral Resources” summary table.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   21

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     21

Reserves: 
As of December 31, 2011, Centerra’s proven and probable reserves increased 694,000 contained ounces (before 
accounting for 2011 production) to 8.1 million ounces of contained gold, compared to 8.2 million ounces as of 
December 31, 2010. This represents an increase of 9% before accounting for 793,000 contained ounces processed 
at Kumtor and Boroo during 2011. All 2011 year-end reserves were estimated using a gold price of $1,200 
per ounce compared to $1,000 per ounce at December 31, 2010.

At Kumtor, before accounting for the processing of 709,000 contained ounces during 2011, proven and probable 

reserves increased by 704,000 contained ounces of gold replacing reserves mined during the year. All of the 
increase in the Central Pit open pit reserves is a result of additional exploration drilling primarily on the Southwest 
Extension of the SB Zone. This drilling has continued to outline a new zone of mineralization that lies immediately 
to the northwest of the Southwest Extension of the SB Zone. The drilling has also increased the average reserve 
grade for the Central Pit to 3.7 g/t Au, compared to 3.4 g/t Au in 2010. There has been no change in cut-off grades 
used for reserve estimation. 

At Boroo, after accounting for the processing of 84,000 contained ounces during 2011, proven and probable 
reserves total 298,000 contained ounces of gold. At the reserve gold price assumption, the Boroo operation could 
potentially continue to feed the mill for over two years utilizing existing low-grade stockpiles.

At Gatsuurt, proven and probable reserves remain unchanged at 1.5 million contained ounces of gold. 

Resources 
As of December 31, 2011, Centerra’s measured and indicated resources increased by 36% or 1.8 million ounces 
over the December 31, 2010 fi gures to total 6.7 million ounces of contained gold, compared to 4.9 million 
contained ounces as of December 31, 2010. The increase from the 2010 year-end measured and indicated 
resources is attributable to an increase in resources at Kumtor together with the addition of new resources for 
both the ATO project in Mongolia and the Kara Beldyr joint venture project in Russia. 

The Company’s inferred resources also increased by 570,000 contained ounces of gold year-over-year. At 
Kumtor, the inferred resources in the high-grade underground SB Zone increased by 393,000 contained ounces 
to 1.8 million contained ounces of gold with an average grade of 13.6 g/t. This increase is primarily a result of 
exploration drilling that has extended the strike length of the high-grade underground resources along strike 
to the northeast and southwest. The cut-off grade was lowered to 6 g/t Au, from the 7 g/t Au used in previous 
estimates, which refl ects updated cost estimates for mining, however, this has only a minimal impact of the 
resource estimation. Inferred open pit resources decreased by 65,000 contained ounces of gold in the Central Pit. 
In addition, exploration drilling in 2011 at the Northeast Prospect resulted in the addition of 150,000 contained 
ounces of gold to the inferred open pit resources to 278,000 ounces of contained gold with an improvement of 
grade to 2.1 g/t Au. 

The initial resource estimate for the ATO project in Mongolia has a measured and indicated resource of 
824,000 ounces of contained gold together with signifi cant silver, lead and zinc and an inferred resource of 
26,000 ounces of contained gold together with silver, lead and zinc.

The resource estimate on a 100% basis for the Gord Zone on the Kara Beldyr property in Russia has an 

indicated resource of 289,000 ounces of contained gold and an inferred resource of 211,000 ounces of contained 
gold. As of January 2012, Centerra holds a 70% equity interest in the property.

22     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   22

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 YEAR-END GOLD RESERVE AND RESOURCE SUMMARY
(as of December 31, 2011) 

Gold Mineral Reserves (1) (12) (13)
(tonnes and ounces in thousands)

Property (3) 

Kumtor (5) 
Boroo (7) 
Gatsuurt (8) (15) 
Total 

Proven 

Probable 

Total Proven and Probable

Tonnes  Grade 
(g/t) 

Contained 
Gold (oz) 

Tonnes  Grade 
(g/t) 

Contained 
Gold (oz) 

Tonnes  Grade  Contained 
Gold (oz)
(g/t) 

3,023 
8,767 
– 
11,790 

1.6 
0.8 
– 
1.0 

153 
215 
– 
368 

56,671 
891 
16,349 
73,911 

3.4 
2.9 
2.8 
3.2 

6,125 
83 
1,489 
7,697 

59,694 
9,658 
16,349 
85,701 

3.3 
1.0 
2.8 
2.9 

6,278
298
1,489
8,065

Gold Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources (2) (12) (13)
(tonnes and ounces in thousands)

Property (3) 

Kumtor (4) (5) 
Boroo (4) (7) 
Gatsuurt (4) (8) (15) 
Ulaan Bulag (9) 
ATO (10) 
Kara Beldyr (11) 
Total 

Measured 

Indicated 

Total Measured and Indicated

Tonnes  Grade 
(g/t) 

Contained 
Gold (oz) 

Tonnes  Grade 
(g/t) 

Contained 
Gold (oz) 

Tonnes  Grade  Contained 
Gold (oz)
(g/t) 

43,262 
452 
– 
– 
10,305 
– 
54,019 

2.3 
2.2 
– 
– 
1.4 
– 
2.1 

3,141 
 32 
– 
– 
 466 
– 
3,639 

22,687 
4,464 
5,533 
1,555 
11,978 
3,790 
50,007 

2.3 
1.5 
2.4 
1.5 
0.9 
2.4 
1.9 

1,658 
210 
426 
 73 
358 
289 
3,014 

65,949 
4,916 
5,533 
1,555 
22,283 
3,790 
104,026 

2.3 
1.5 
2.4 
1.5 
1.2 
2.4 
2.0 

4,799
242
426
 73
824
289
6,653

Gold Inferred Mineral Resources (2) (12) (13) (14)
(tonnes and ounces in thousands)

Property (3) 

Kumtor Open Pit (4) (5) 
Kumtor SB Underground (6) 
Kumtor Stockwork UG (6) 
Boroo (4) (7) 
Gatsuurt (4) (8) (15) 
Ulaan Bulag (9) 
ATO (10) 
Kara Beldyr (11) 

Total 

Tonnes 

Grade (g/t) 

Contained Gold (oz)

9,195 
4,040 
1,633 
7,323 
5,926 
315 
1,418 
3,354 

33,204 

2.4 
13.6 
12.0 
1.0 
2.6 
1.3 
0.6 
2.0 

3.8 

694
1,760
629
235
491
13
26
211

4,059

(1)  The mineral reserves have been estimated based on a gold price of $1,200 per ounce.
(2)  Mineral resources are in addition to reserves. Mineral resources do not have demonstrated economic viability.
(3)  Centerra’s equity interests as of this MD&A are: Kumtor 100%, Gatsuurt 100%, Boroo 100%, Ulaan Bulag 100%, ATO 100% and Kara Beldyr 70% (as of January 2012). All 

contained ounces in table above are shown on a 100% basis.

(4)  Open pit resources occur outside the current ultimate pits which have been designed using a gold price of $1,200 per ounce.
(5)  The open pit reserves and resources at Kumtor are estimated based on a cut-off grade of 0.85 gram of gold per tonne for the Central Pit and 1.0 grams of gold per tonne for the 

Southwest, Sarytor and Northeast deposits.

(6)  Underground resources occur below the Central pit and are estimated based on a cut-off grade of 6.0 grams of gold per tonne.
(7)  The open pit reserves and resources at Boroo are estimated based on a 0.5 gram of gold per tonne cut-off grade. 
(8)  The open pit reserves and resources at Gatsuurt are estimated using either a 1.2, 1.4 or 1.5 grams of gold per tonne cut-off grade depending on ore type and process method and 

include the Central Zone and Main Zone deposits.

(9)  The open pit resources at Ulaan Bulag are estimated on a cut-off grade of 0.8, 0.9 or 1.0 grams of gold per tonne depending on ore type and process method
(10) The ATO open pit resources are estimated based on a Net Smelter Return (NSR) cut-off grade of $6.50 NSR per tonne for oxide mineralization and $25.50 NSR per tonne for 

sulphide mineralization.

(11)  The open pit resources at Kara Beldyr are estimated based on a 1.0 gram of gold per tonne cut-off grade and the contained ounces are shown on a 100% basis.
(12)  A conversion factor of 31.10348 grams per ounce of gold is used in the reserve and resource estimates. 
(13)  Numbers may not add up due to rounding.
(14)  Inferred mineral resources have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to whether they can be mined economically. It cannot be assumed that all or part of 

the inferred resources will ever be upgraded to a higher category.

(15)  In July 2009, the Mongolian Parliament enacted legislation that would prohibit mineral prospecting, exploration and mining in water basins and forest areas in the territory of 
Mongolia and provides for the revocation of mining and exploration licenses affecting such areas. The legislation exempts any “mineral deposit of strategic signifi cance”. If the 
legislation is not repealed or amended or if Gatsuurt is not designated as a “mineral deposit of strategic importance” that is exempt from this legislation, mineral reserves at 
Gatsuurt may have to be reclassifi ed as mineral resources or eliminated entirely. See “Other Corporate Developments – Mongolia” and “Risk Factors”.

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     23

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   23

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Polymetallic Mineral Resources
(as of December 31, 2011)

Category 

Tonnes 
Gold 
(000’s)  Grade 
(g/t) 

ATO Project (19)

Contained  

Silver 
Gold (21)  Grade 
(g/t) 

(oz 000’s) 

Contained 
Silver 
(oz 000’s) 

Lead   Contained 
Grade 
(%) 

(lb 000’s) 

Lead  Grade 
(%) 

Zinc   Contained 
Zinc
(lb 000’s)

Oxide Mineral Resources (16) (17) (19) (20) (22) (23)
(> $6.50 NSR cut-off Grade)

Measured Resources 

Indicated Resources 
Measured and Indicated 

Inferred Resources (18) 

3,345 

2,966 
6,311 

244 

1.4 

0.8 
1.1 

0.5 

146 

77 
223 

4 

8.8 

7.4 
8.2 

4.9 

950 

707 
1,657 

38 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

– 

– 
– 

– 

–

–
–

–

Sulphide Mineral Resources (16) (17) (19) (20) (22) (23)
(> $25.50 cut-off Grade)

Measured Resources 

Indicated Resources 
Measured and Indicated 

Inferred Resources (18) 

6,960 

9,012 
15,972 

1,174 

1.4 

1.0 
1.2 

0.6 

320 

281 
601 

22 

7.5 

7.9 
7.8 

5.2 

1,685 

2,301 
3,986 

196 

0.864 

0.692 
0.767 

0.704 

132,572 

137,486 
270,058 

18,221 

1.542 

1.269 
1.388 

1.068 

236,605

252,123
488,728

27,642

(16)  Mineral resources have been estimated on the following metal prices (gold $1,200 per ounce), (silver $20 per ounce), (lead $ 0.87 per lb), (zinc $0.87 per lb).
(17)  Mineral resources do not have demonstrated economic viability.
(18)  Inferred mineral resources have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to whether they can be mined economically. It cannot be assumed that all or part of 

the inferred resources will ever be upgraded to a higher category.

(19)  Centerra’s equity interest in the ATO project is 100%. 
(20) Numbers may not add up due to rounding.
(21)  The contained gold resources have also been included in Centerra’s 2011 Year-end Gold Reserve and Resource Summary
(22) The ATO resources are estimated based on a Net Smelter Return cut-off grade of $6.50 NSR per tonne for oxide mineralization and $25.50 NSR per tonne for sulphide 

mineralization. 

(23) Variables used to calculate NSR values include;

  Oxide total recovery of gold=60%
  Oxide total recovery of Silver=40%

Sulphide Net Smelter Return total recovery of gold=70%
Sulphide Net Smelter Return total recovery of silver=70%
Sulphide Net Smelter Return total recovery of lead=81%
Sulphide Net Smelter Return total recovery of zinc=51%
Payable royalty on total recovered gold=9.0%
Payable royalty on total recovered silver=6.75%
Payable royalty on total recovered lead=6.75%
Payable royalty on total recovered zinc=6.75%

24     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   24

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Reconciliation of Gold Reserves and Resources
(in thousands of ounces of contained gold) (8) (9)

December 31 

2011 

2011 Addition 

2010 (1) 

Throughput (2) 

(Deletion) (3) 

December 31
2011

Gold Proven and Probable Mineral Reserves
Kumtor (4) (5) 
Boroo (4) 
Gatsuurt (4) (7) (11) 
Total Proven and Probable Reserves 

Gold Measured and Indicated Mineral Resources
Kumtor (4) (6) 
Boroo (4) 
Gatsuurt (4) (7) (11) 
Ulaan Bulag (4) 
ATO (4) 
Kara Beldyr (4) 
Total Measured & Indicated Resources 

Gold Inferred Mineral Resources (10)
Kumtor Open Pit (4) (6) 
Kumtor Stockwork Underground (4) 
Kumtor SB Underground (4) 
Boroo (4) 
Gatsuurt (4) (7) (11) 
Ulaan Bulag (4) 
ATO (4) 
Kara Beldyr (4) 
Total Inferred Resources 

6,283 
392 
1,489 
8,164 

4,134 
242 
426 
80 
0 
0 
4,882 

759 
628 
1,367 
233 
491 
11 
0 
0 
3,489 

709 
84 
0 
793 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 

0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 
0 

704 
(10) 
0 
694 

665 
0 
0 
(7) 
824 
289 
1,771 

(65) 
1 
393 
2 
0 
2 
26 
211 
570 

6,278
298
1,489
8,065

4,799
242
426
73
824
289
6,653

694
629
1,760
235
491
13
26
211
4,059

(1)  Reserves and resources as reported in Centerra’s Annual Information Form fi led in March 2011.
(2)  Corresponds to mill feed at Kumtor and Boroo. 
(3)  Changes in reserves or resources, as applicable, are attributed to information provided by drilling and subsequent reclassifi cation of reserves or resources, an increase in the gold 

price, changes in pit designs, reconciliation between the mill and the resource model, and changes to operating costs.

(4)  Centerra’s equity interests as of this MD&A are as follows: Kumtor 100%, Gatsuurt 100%, Boroo 100%, Ulaan Bulag 100%, ATO 100% and Kara Beldyr 70% (as of January 2012). 

Contained ounces are on a 100% basis in the table above at each property.

(5)  Kumtor open pit reserves include the Central Pit and the Southwest and Sarytor Deposits.
(6)  Kumtor open pit resources include the Central Pit, Southwest Deposit, Sarytor Deposit and Northeast Deposit.
(7)  Gatsuurt open pit reserves and resources include the Central Zone and Main Zone deposits.
(8)  Centerra reports reserves and resources separately. The amount of reported resources does not include those amounts identifi ed as reserves.
(9)  Numbers may not add up due to rounding.
(10) Inferred mineral resources have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to whether they can be mined economically. It cannot be assumed that all or part of 

the inferred resources will ever be upgraded to a higher category.

(11)  In July 2009, the Mongolian Parliament enacted legislation that would prohibit mineral prospecting, exploration and mining in water basins and forest areas in the territory of 
Mongolia and provides for the revocation of mining and exploration licenses affecting such areas. The legislation exempts any “mineral deposit of strategic signifi cance”. If the 
legislation is not repealed or amended or if Gatsuurt is not designated as a “mineral deposit of strategic importance” that is exempt from this legislation, mineral reserves at 
Gatsuurt may have to be reclassifi ed as mineral resources or eliminated entirely. See “Other Corporate Developments – Mongolia” or “Risk Factors”. 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   25

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     25

 
 
SELECTED ANNUAL INFORMATION

The consolidated fi nancial statements of Centerra are prepared in accordance with International Financial 
Reporting Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board and have been measured 
and expressed in United States dollars. Some of the information discussed below are non-GAAP measures. 
See “Non-GAAP Measures”.

$ millions, unless otherwise specifi ed
Year Ended December 31 

Revenue 

Cost of sales 
Mine standby costs 
Regional offi ce administration 

Earnings from mine operations 
Revenue-based taxes 
Other operating expenses 
Exploration and business development 
Corporate administration 

Earnings from operations 
Other (income) and expenses 
Finance costs 
Gain on sale of exploration project 
Unusual items – Kyrgyz agreement 

Earnings before income taxes 

Income tax expense 

Net earnings 

Earnings per common share (basic and diluted) – $/share 

Total assets 
Long-term provision for reclamation and deferred income taxes 

Operating Highlights
Gold sold – ounces sold 
Gold produced – ounces poured 
Average realized price – $/oz sold 
Gold spot market price – $/oz (1) 
Cost of sales – $/oz sold 
Total cash cost – $/oz produced (2) 
Total production cost – $/oz produced (2) 

2011 

2010 

2009(1)

$ 

1,020 

$ 

850 

$ 

382 
0 
21 

617 
132 
15 
43 
45 

381 
(1) 
4 
– 
– 

379 

8 

371 

1.57 

1,689 
56 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

342 
1 
21 

485 
99 
8 
32 
52 

294 
1 
2 
(35) 
– 

327 

4 

322 

1.37 

1,400 
31 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

685

399
4
23

259
60
–
26
34

139
(1)
2
–
49

89

29

60

0.27

1,072
21

  650,258 
  642,380 
1,569 
1,572 
588 
502 
687 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

  687,706 
  678,941 
1,236 
1,225 
498 
440 
555 

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

  676,394
  675,582
1,013
973
590
459
607

$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 
$ 

(1)  The Company’s 2009 information has not been restated to conform to IFRS and is presented in accordance with Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles.
(2) Average for the period as reported by the London Bullion Market Association (U.S. dollar Gold P.M. Fix Rate). 
(3) Total cash cost, total production cost per ounce produced are non-GAAP measures and are discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures”.

26     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 26.indd   26

Mar/31/2012   1:28 PM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RESULTS
2011 In Review: 

•  Signifi cant precious and base metal exploration discovery in Eastern Mongolia at the ATO property 

announced July 11, 2011. Initial measured and indicated resource of 824,000 ounces of contained gold, 
•  Proven and probable reserves increased by 694,000 contained ounces replacing the 2011 production at 

Kumtor and measured and indicated resources increased by 36% or 1.8 million ounces, including the ATO 
discovery,

•  Earned a 50% interest in the Öksüt exploration project in Turkey that has returned signifi cant intercepts of 

oxidized gold mineralization from drilling activity in 2011,

•  Increased dividend payout in 2011 to include a special dividend of Cdn$0.30 per share and annual dividend 

of Cdn$0.10 per share during the year (total of US$99.3 million paid),

•  Achieved milestone of $1 billion in revenue in 2011,
•  Centerra became a supporting company of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) 

promoting good governance and responsible mining: both Kumtor and Boroo have played an active role in 
supporting the EITI in their respective countries of operation,

•  The remedial measures the Company has put in place to manage the ice and waste movement in the 

South-East high-wall at Kumtor over the last few years continued throughout 2011,

•  Filed an updated technical report for the Kumtor Mine in March 2011,
•  Converted the Company’s accounting principles to IFRS from Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting 

Principles.

Overview of 2011 Versus 2010
Centerra’s 2011 and 2010 results refl ect fully consolidated interests in the Kumtor and Boroo mines, a fully 
consolidated interest in the Gatsuurt and ATO properties and 50% ownership in the Company’s jointly-controlled 
entities, Kara Beldyr (Russia) and Öksüt (Turkey). 

For the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company recorded net earnings of $370.9 million or $1.57 per share, 

compared to net earnings of $322.3 million or $1.37 per share in 2010. The increase refl ects a 27% increase in the 
realized gold price in the year, partially offset by lower gold ounces sold, the settlement of $14.1 million with the 
Kyrgyz Social Fund, the settlement with the Mongolian government of $2.6 million for the alluvial claim and the 
contribution of $10 million to the Kyrgyz government for the construction and repair of 27 schools in the country 
(see “Other Corporate Developments”). The earnings in 2010 included a 22% increase in the realized gold price, 
the gain recorded from the sale of the REN property of $34.9 million partially offset by the contribution of 
$6.4 million by Boroo Gold LLC (“BGC”, the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary that owns the Boroo mine) 
to the construction of a maternity hospital in Ulaanbaatar. 

During 2011, the Company’s earnings from mine operations was $616.5 million (60% of revenue), compared to 
$485.2 million (57% of revenue) in 2010. Earnings from mine operations are defi ned as revenue less cost of sales 
(including cash and non-cash items), mine standby costs and regional offi ce administration. The increase in the 
earnings from mine operations is due to increased margins, resulting primarily from higher realized gold prices, 
partially offset by higher operating costs and lower gold sales.

Revenue:
Revenue for 2011 in creased by $170.6 million, or 20%, to $1,020.3 million compared to $849.8 million in the same 
period of 2010 due to a 27% increase in the realized gold price partially offset by lower ounces produced and sold. 
Gold production was 642,380 ounces in 2011 compared to the 678,941 ounces reported in 2010. This reduction 
refl ects lower gold production at Boroo (-47%) mostly due to lower grades and lower recoveries processed through 
the mill. At Boroo, the ore became increasingly refractory during 2010 and throughout 2011 and the grades and 
recoveries continued to decline throughout 2011. Mining activities at Boroo were temporarily suspended in 
November 2010 but resumed in January 2012. The mill at Boroo operated in 2011 by processing stockpiled material 
from the pit and higher grade material from the heap leach stockpiles. Gold sold in 2011 totalled 650,258 ounces 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     27

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   27

27/03/12   8:21 AM

(599,494 ounces from Kumtor and 50,764 ounces from Boroo) compared to 687,706 ounces in 2010 (568,390 ounces 
from Kumtor and 119,316 ounces from Boroo). The average realized gold price for 2011 was $1,569 per ounce 
compared to $1,236 per ounce in the same period of 2010 refl ecting higher spot prices for gold throughout the year. 
Consolidated gold production in 2011 of 642,380 ounces was within the Company’s initial guidance of 600,000 

– 650,000 ounces.

Cost of sales:
As a result of the IFRS conversion, cost of sales now includes non-cash depreciation, depletion and amortization 
(“DD&A”) in addition to operating cash costs related to the product sold in the period. The comparative period 
also refl ects this change in treatment. 

Cost of sales was $382.3 million in 2011 compared to $342.2 million in 2010. The increase results from higher 

operating costs for labour, diesel and other consumables at Kumtor, the settlement reached between Kumtor 
and the Kyrgyz government relating to the Kyrgyz Social Fund totalling $14.1 million and increased DD&A 
of $22 million. As a result of the social fund settlement, beginning in the fourth quarter of 2011, the amounts 
contributed to the social fund include a portion for the high altitude premiums paid to employees, which 
increased the contributions in the fourth quarter of 2011 by $2.3 million.

Depreciation, depletion, and amortization associated with production increased by 30% to $98.4 million in 
2011 from $75.6 million in 2010 as a result of higher depreciation for the expanded mobile fl eet at Kumtor, which 
was increasingly used to move waste and ice in 2011, and higher amortization of deferred stripping costs on 
cutback 12B. (See “2012 Outlook” and “2012 Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization”.) Cost of sales per ounce 
sold was $588 in 2011 compared to $498 in 2010, as more waste had to be moved to expose lower grade ore 
thereby resulting in higher cost ounces being sold in 2011.

Total cash cost per ounce produced for 2011 increased to $502 compared to $440 per ounce in 2010 (total cash 
cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures”). The increase in 
2011 refl ects the impact of lower production levels due to lower grades and recoveries and higher operating costs 
at Kumtor and at Boroo as discussed in the “Results of Operating Segments” for Kumtor and Boroo. 

Total cash cost of $502 per ounce in 2011 was slightly above the Company’s guidance of $480 – $500 per ounce 

(which was revised in the third quarter 2011), due mainly to increased operating costs.

Taxes:
Centerra recorded an amount of $131.8 million in 2011 for revenue-based tax expense in respect to the Kyrgyz 
segment compared to $98.6 million in 2010, and an amount of $8.1 million in 2011 in respect of income tax 
expense at Boroo compared to $4.4 million in 2010. 

Pursuant to the Restated Investment Agreement between Centerra, Kumtor Gold Company CJSC (“KGC), 
Kumtor Operating Company CJSC (“KOC”) and the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic (the “Government”), 
dated as of June 6, 2009 (the “Restated Investment Agreement”), the tax regime previously applicable to the 
Kumtor project was replaced by a simplifi ed regime with effect from January 1, 2008. Under this simplifi ed 
regime, tax is paid at a rate of 13% of gross revenue. In addition, with effect from January 1, 2009, Kumtor makes 
a monthly contribution of 1% of gross revenue to the Issyk-Kul Oblast Development Fund. This new regime, 
which was approved by the Kyrgyz Parliament on April 30, 2009 (considered the date of substantial enactment 
for fi nancial reporting purposes), replaced a number of taxes previously imposed. The increase in revenue-based 
taxes expensed in 2011 over that of 2010 refl ects the increase in revenue from the higher realized gold price 
recognized by Kumtor in 2011. 

The Restated Investment Agreement also provides for an annual payment to the State budget of 4% of gross 
revenue. This annual payment is reduced by the amount of capital and exploration expenditures incurred in the 
Kyrgyz Republic. Any of these expenditures not applied as a credit in the year are carried forward to future years. 
As at December 31, 2011, the excess expenditure in the Kyrgyz Republic on capital and exploration over 4% of 
gross revenue being carried forward to future years is $382.9 million. This excess amount is subject to audit by 
the Kyrgyz authorities.  

28     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   28

27/03/12   8:21 AM

The tax regime for Boroo Gold LLC, which owns the Boroo mine in Mongolia, is governed by a Stability 
Agreement with the Government of Mongolia. That agreement was amended August 3rd, 2007, effective from 
January 1, 2007, to establish an income tax rate at 25% of taxable income over 3 billion Mongolian Tugriks (MNT) 
(approximately $2.2 million at the 2011 year-end exchange rate) with a tax rate of 10% applicable to taxable 
income up to that amount. Income tax expense in the Mongolian segment is determined by reference to the MNT. 
The increase of $3.7 million in Boroo’s income tax expense for the year 2011 compared to that of the prior year, 
resulted primarily from the tax expense that was recorded as a result of the weakening MNT versus the United 
States dollar during 2011 on U.S. dollar-denominated monetary assets. 

Losses incurred by Centerra’s entities in the North American segment have not been tax effected.

Goodwill:
During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company undertook its normal annual review of the goodwill 
recorded by the Kyrgyz reporting unit. As a result, management concluded that current circumstances did not 
indicate that the carrying value of the unit exceeded its fair value. 

Exploration: 
Exploration expenditures for 2011 totalled $39.6 million, an increase of 27% over the 2010 expenditures of 
$31.3 million.

Exploration expenditures at Kumtor totalled $12.7 million where work focused on drill testing the extent and 
grade of the Southwest extension of the SB zone as well as testing the mineralization within and below the KS11 
open pit design at deeper elevations in the Saddle and SB zones. This work had positive results, returning 
signifi cant mineralized intercepts both within and immediately below the KS11 design pit which contributed to 
the reserve and resource increases published by the Company in its February 9, 2012 news release. Exploration 
drilling was carried out in Decline #1 immediately below the Davidoff glacier to test the Kumtor structure and 
also in Decline #2 to the test the extension of the Stockwork Zone: drilling will continue in 2012 as access becomes 
available. Resource delineation drilling of the Stockwork Zone commenced in the second quarter of 2011 showing 
some initial positive results. Regional exploration at Kumtor continued in 2011 across all major areas on the 
Kumtor mining concession returning encouraging results in the Northeast and Southeast areas and disappointing 
results were seen at Petrov and Bordoo areas. In addition trenching, prospecting, and target defi nition work 
continued in the Kumtor district. Results from the work have been encouraging and additional drilling is planned 
in 2012.

In Mongolia, 2011 exploration expenditures totalled $11.4 million compared to $8.4 million in 2010. Exploration 

work focused on the ATO project with drilling, trenching, mapping, geochemical and geophysical surveys being 
carried out on the ATO prospect and in the district. In July 2011, the Company announced its new precious/base 
metal discovery in northeast Mongolia at the ATO property where drilling has outlined three breccia pipes with 
an initial measured and indicated resource of 824,000 ounces. Exploration work is continuing and additional 
metallurgical testwork will be carried out along with baseline social environmental and hydrological studies. 
Results continue to be encouraging and additional work on the large ATO land holding is planned for 2012.
Expenditures in Russia were $5.1 million in 2011 with the focus on drilling targets identifi ed on the Kara 
Beldyr joint venture (“JV”) in the Tyva Republic. Drilling in 2011 was carried out on the Gord, Camp and Ezen 
zones, which confi rmed the main geological features previously identifi ed and returned promising results. In 
January 2012, Centerra earned a further 20% interest in the property, bringing its total ownership interest to 70%. 
Further work on the project will continue in 2012 and will be funded on a pro-rata basis with Centerra’s joint 
venture partner Central Asia Goldfi elds.

In Turkey, $4.3 million was spent on exploration in 2011. In the fourth quarter of 2011, Centerra earned a 50% 

interest in the Öksüt property, a joint venture with Stratex International PLC, and subsequent to the 2011 year-
end, Centerra exercised its right to earn an additional 20% interest in the Öksüt joint venture (for a total interest 
of 70%) by agreeing to invest a further $3 million on exploration work over the next two years. The drilling 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   29

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     29

program on the property continued in 2011 and returned signifi cant results from the Ortaçam North prospect. 
Additional drilling and metallurgical test work are planned for 2012.

In the United States 2011 expenditures were $2.1 million with work focused on drilling activities on the Oasis 

projects in Nevada. Data for the Tonopah Divide project was compiled and it was determined that the project 
does not have the size potential to meet Centerra’s requirements. As a result, a decision was made to sell our 
interest in the property.

In 2011, the Company entered into three new joint venture agreements covering projects located in the Amur 

region of Russia, Central Anatolia region of Turkey and Heilongjiang region of China. The Company will earn 
ownership interests in these joint ventures as the predetermined spending thresholds are met.

Generative work continued in China and other prospective regions in Asia in 2011.
Subsequent to the 2011 year-end Centerra decided to close its exploration offi ce in Reno, Nevada and to refocus 
its exploration efforts outside of the Great Basin in Nevada, USA to those areas in which it is having more success, 
such as in Mongolia, Turkey, Russia and Kyrgyzstan.

Other operating expenses
Other operating expenses in 2011 were $15.5 million compared to $8.0 million in the prior year. The 2011 expense 
includes $12.6 million for donations and sustainable development contributions made in both the Kyrgyz Republic 
and Mongolia ($8.7 million in 2010), the settlement in the amount of $2.6 million relating to a claim with 
government authorities in Mongolia regarding alluvial reserves on the Boroo project licenses (see “Other 
Corporate Developments – Mongolia”), the net income of $0.1 million ($0.7 million in 2010) related to the 
production of alluvial reserves at the Boroo property and various other community-based sustainability projects 
supported by both operations. 

The results also include corporate sustainability spending by Kumtor totalling $10.0 million in 2011 for the 
construction and repair of 27 schools throughout the Kyrgyz Republic, while in 2010 Boroo funded the construction 
of a maternity hospital in Ulaanbaatar in the amount of $6.4 million.

Net Earnings
Net earnings for 2011 were $370.9 million or $1.57 per share compared to $322.3 million or $1.37 per share in 
2010. The 2010 comparative year included a gain of $34.9 million on the sale of the REN exploration property 
in Nevada, USA. 

Cash Flow:
Cash fl ow provided from operations for 2011 was $434.9 million compared to $281.0 million in 2010, primarily 
as a result of higher earnings and lower working capital levels at the end of the year. Cash used in investing 
activities totalled $473.5 million in 2011 compared to $119.6 million in the prior year. Investing activities in 2011 
primarily include the outfl ow of funds for the investment in capital projects and the net purchase of short-term 
investments, while in 2010 the investment in capital projects was partially offset by the receipt of funds from the 
net redemption of short-term investments and proceeds received from the sale of the REN property. Investments 
in capital projects of $175.1 million in 2011 compared to $208.2 million in 2010, represents lower spending on 
growth projects mainly at Gatsuurt and lower spending for sustaining capital at Kumtor on equipment rebuilds. 
Investments in growth capital for 2011 totalled $140.5 million ($164 million in 2010), while $34.6 million was 
invested in sustaining capital ($44.2 million in 2010). A net amount of $290.4 million in short-term fi nancial 
instruments were purchased in 2011, whereas a net amount of $63.7 million of short-term investments matured 
in 2010. The net proceeds from the sale of the REN property added $34.9 million of investment cash in 2010. 
Cash used in fi nancing activities in 2011 was $96.6 million ($7.6 million in 2010), including a dividend payment 
of $99.3 million (dividend of $13.6 million in 2010) partially offset by proceeds for shares issued on the exercise 
of stock options. 

Net cash and short-term investments increased to $568.2 million from $413.0 million at the prior year end.

30     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   30

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Capital:
Capital expenditures (spent and accrued) in 2011 were $187.9 million as compared to $212.0 million in the prior 
year. Sustaining capital in 2011 of $34.6 million (including $32.2 million at Kumtor and $1.8 million at Boroo), 
compared to $44.2 million in 2010 (including $40.1 million at Kumtor and $3.5 million at Boroo). Growth capital 
of $153.3 million in 2011, compared to $167.8 million the prior year, refl ects $148.5 million of spending at Kumtor 
mainly on fl eet expansion and for the pre-stripping of cut-back 12B and 14A, $43.9 million on underground 
development of phase I and II and spending at Boroo of $4.5 million in 2011 to raise the tailings dam. 

Credit and Liquidity:
As at December 31, 2010 and 2011, the Company had no outstanding debt. On November 16, 2010, the Company 
secured a three-year, $150 million revolving credit facility with the European Bank for Reconstruction and 
Development (“EBRD”) to support future growth initiatives. The facility remains undrawn.

A signifi cant factor in determining profi tability and cash fl ow from the Company’s operations is the price of 
gold. The spot market gold price based on the London PM fi x was $1,531 per ounce at the end of 2011. For 2011, 
the gold price averaged $1,572 per ounce compared to $1,225 per ounce for the same period in 2010.

The Company receives its revenues through the sale of gold in U.S. dollars. The Company has operations in the 

Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia, and its corporate head offi ce is in Toronto, Canada. During 2011, the Company 
incurred combined costs (including capital) totalling roughly $917 million. Approximately $409 million of this 
(45%) was in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The percentage of Centerra’s non-U.S. dollar costs, by currency 
was, on average, as follows: 37% in Canadian dollars, 36% in Kyrgyz soms, 13% in Euros, 11% in Mongolian tugriks, 
and approximately 3% in Russian Rubles, Australian dollars, Turkish Lira, British pounds, and Swiss Franc 
combined. In 2011, the average value of the currencies of the Kyrgyz Republic, and the Eurozone appreciated 
against the U.S. dollar by approximately 2.0%, and 3.8%, respectively, from their value at December 31, 2010. The 
British Pound, Swiss Franc, Russian Ruble, and Australian Dollar also appreciated against the U.S. dollar by 2.6%, 
5.1%, 3.7%, and 5.3%, respectively. The Turkish Lira declined in value by approximately 8.8% against the U.S. dollar. 
On average, the value of both the Mongolian tugrik and the Canadian dollar remained virtually fl at to their value 
at December 31, 2010 with a decline of 0.4% and an appreciation of 0.9%, respectively, against the USD. The net 
impact of these movements in 2011, after taking into account currencies held at the beginning of the year, was 
to increase annual costs by $6.2 million.

RESULTS OF OPERATING SEGMENTS

As of December 31, 2011, Centerra owns 100% of Kumtor, 100% of Boroo, Gatsuurt and the ATO project, and owns 
50% of the Kara Beldyr and Öksüt joint venture projects.

Kumtor 
The Kumtor open pit mine, located in the Kyrgyz Republic, is the largest gold mine in Central Asia operated by a 
Western-based gold producer. It has been operating since 1997 and has produced over 8.4 million ounces of gold 
to December 31, 2011.

In accordance with the mine plan, the focus at Kumtor in 2011 was to complete the stripping work necessary 
to access the higher grade material from cut-back 12B and 14A and the removal of ice and waste material from the 
high wall associated with the SB Zone. Ore from cut-back 12B was uncovered in May 2011 and as a result, Kumtor 
began amortizing the associated pre-stripping costs previously capitalized. In the fi rst half of 2011, Kumtor 
processed the high-grade material that had been stockpiled during the fourth quarter of 2010 and mined at the 
beginning of 2011 from cut-back 12A. The mill blended ore from cutback 12B as it became available starting in 
May 2011 with other lower grade stockpiled material. The higher grade benches from cut-back 12B were exposed 
in November 2011 and this higher grade material was processed through the mill in the last two months of 2011. 
As experienced in 2010, Kumtor had to manage an increased fl ow of ice on the southwest high wall during 2011. 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   31

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     31

To ensure continued safe mining, a 75 metre step-in was designed and implemented in the 12B cut-back that 
allowed mining to continue safely. The deferred ore tonnage will be removed as part of a future cut back. 
In addition and similar to the prior year, Kumtor managed the infl ow of melt waters during the warmer period 
of this year (second and third quarters 2011). A permanent water pumping facility to effectively and effi ciently 
dewater the pit has been designed and the equipment and supplies have been ordered as part of the future 
pit operation.

As at September 2011, mine operations received, as planned, 36 new larger CAT 789 haul trucks, 4 Liebherr 

shovels and 2 larger capacity drills. Accordingly, the average daily volume of materials moved in the fourth 
quarter of 2011 by the mining operation increased by over 60% as compared to normal volumes moved in 2010. 
Kumtor achieved the continuous mining rate of 500,000 tonnes per day as planned in the 2011 mine plan.

In 2011 the total underground development advance at Kumtor was 1,864 metres. Decline #1 (SB Zone decline) 

advanced 903 metres while Decline #2 (Stockwork zone decline) advanced 961 metres in 2011. The Stockwork 
drive reached its design limit in October 2011 and delineation drilling of the Stockwork Zone has begun. 

Kumtor Operating Results

Year Ended December 31 

Gold sold – ounces 
Revenue – $ millions 
Average realized price – $/oz sold 
Cost of sales – $ millions (1) 
Cost of sales – $/oz sold 
Tonnes mined – 000s 
Tonnes ore mined – 000s 
Average mining grade – g/t (2) 
Tonnes milled – 000s 
Average mill head grade – g/t (2) 
Recovery – % 
Gold produced – ounces 
Total cash costs – $/oz produced (3) 
Total production cost – $/oz produced (3) 
Capital expenditures – $ millions 

2011 

599,494 
941.1 
1,570 
332.6 
555 
150,605 
6,020 
3.49 
5,815 
3.79 
80.8 
583,156 
482 
673 
180.7 

2010 

Change 

% Change

568,390 
704.3 
1,239 
272.4 
479 
116,466 
5,765 
4.14 
5,594 
4.02 
79.5 
567,802 
409 
513 
186.5 

31,104 
236.8 
331 
60.2 
76 
34,139 
255 
(0.65) 
221 
(0.23) 
1.3 
15,354 
74 
160 
(5.8) 

5%
34%
27%
22%
16%
29%
4%
(16%)
4%
(6%)
2%
3%
18%
31%
(3%)

(1)  Cost of sales for 2011 and its comparative years exclude regional offi ce administration.
(2)  g/t means grams per tonne.
(3)  Total cash cost and total production cost are non-GAAP measures and are discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures”.

Revenue and Gold Production:
Revenue in 2011 increased to $941.1 million from $704.3 million in 2010, as a result of both higher sales volumes 
and higher average realized price for gold. Gold sales for 2011 were 599,494 ounces at an average realized price 
per ounce of $1,570 compared to 568,390 ounces at an average realized price of $1,239 per ounce in 2010. The 
higher average realized gold price per ounce is due to higher gold spot prices. 

Kumtor produced 583,156 ounces of gold for the twelve months of 2011 compared to 567,802 ounces of gold in 
the same period of 2010. The increase resulted primarily from processing the high level of gold that was in circuit 
at the end of 2010 as well as processing increased tonnes due to greater availability of the mill in 2011 at 94% 
compared to 91% in 2010. The ore feed grade averaged 3.79 g/t with a recovery of 80.8% in 2011, compared to 
4.02 g/t with a recovery of 79.5% in 2010. The grade reduction resulted from the sequencing of ore from the pit, 
refl ecting the non-homogeneity of the ore body. Feed grades in 2010 saw high grades in the fi rst quarter with 
decreasing grades in both the second and third quarter before obtaining higher grades from cut-back 12B in the 
fourth quarter. In 2011, the metallurgical feed grade was very constant which had positive results on the average 
recovery.

32     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   32

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Cost of Sales
The cost of sales at Kumtor, which includes non-cash DD&A associated with the ounces sold, was $332.6 million 
in 2011, an increase of $60.2 million or 22% compared to 2010. This is primarily due to increased operating and 
depreciation costs compared to the same period in 2010. The increase in 2011 includes $14.1 million representing 
the settlement reached between Kumtor and the Kyrgyz government relating to the Kyrgyz Social Fund, higher 
DD&A and increased operating costs. 

As a result of an audit by the Kyrgyz Social Fund of the 2010 operating year an agreement was reached 
whereby Kumtor and the Social Fund agreed that Kumtor would voluntarily pay $14.1 million representing 
amounts for both Kumtor and its employees to September 30, 2011. As a result of this settlement, the social fund 
contributions starting in the fourth quarter of 2011 are now calculated including the impact of the high altitude 
premiums paid to employees. (See “Other Corporate Developments – Kyrgyz Republic”.)

Depreciation, depletion, and amortization associated with production increased by $28.9 million in 2011 over 
the 2010 year. This increase was predominantly due to the increased depreciation of the expanded mining fl eet, 
higher volumes of sales impacting depreciation calculated on a unit-of-production basis and the amortization of 
the pre-stripping costs from cut-back 12B which began in May 2011 when ore was fi rst released. This was partially 
offset by a buildup of inventories as a result of mining cutback 12B, which classifi ed a signifi cant amount of 
mining related depreciation costs in inventory and from the additional reserves announced at the end of 2010 at 
Kumtor, which reduced the charge from the assets depreciated on a unit of production basis. (See “2012 Outlook” 
and “2012 Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization”.)

Operating cash costs at Kumtor increased in 2011 by $80.9 million before the capitalization of an additional 
$28.5 million for pre-stripping activities (net amount of $52.4 million) compared to the 2010 year. This variance 
can be explained as follows:

Mining costs in 2011 were $197.3 million, an increase in costs of $63.0 million or 47% compared to 2010. The 
cost increase refl ects the higher mining rate achieved during 2011 where 29% more tonnes of waste and ore were 
moved with Kumtor’s expanded mining fl eet. The increased mining activity resulted in increased costs for diesel 
($28.6 million with $15.2 million of that resulting from the price increasing from US$0.59 to US$0.76 cents per 
litre), national labour costs predominantly as a result of a new collective agreement with the unionized national 
workforce signed in October 2010 ($16.2 million), explosives ($6.2 million of which $3.8 million is a result of a 
higher purchase price), maintenance, tire and lubricant costs due to the expanded fl eet ($5.5 million), equipment 
rental ($1.5 million), camp catering ($1.0 million), dewatering costs ($0.9 million), drilling bits ($0.7 million) and 
other expenses ($2.4 million).

Milling costs in 2011 were $63.5 million, an increase of $7.4 million or 13% when compared to 2010. This was 
primarily due to an increase in national labour costs ($2.3 million) resulting from the new collective agreement, 
cyanide consumption ($1.4 million), other reagents which includes fl occulants, nitric acid, PAX and lime due to 
both higher price and consumption partially resulting from additional tonnage processed ($1.2 million), grinding 
media due to higher purchase price ($1.2 million), electricity ($0.8 million), sodium hydroxide ($0.6 million) 
and other cost increases ($1.4 million). This was partially offset by lower carbon costs due to sourcing from an 
alternate low cost producer and lower consumption of carbon from the circuit ($1.5 million).

Site administration costs in 2011 were $47.3 million, an increase of $10.5 million or 28% when compared 
to the 2010 year. This was primarily due to an increase in national labour ($6.2 million) resulting from the 
new collective agreement, road service costs due to additional waste dumps and increased cost of equipment 
($1.7 million), insurance ($1.4 million), diesel costs ($1.0 million), food and camp supplies ($1.0 million), 
equipment rental ($0.6 million) and maintenance materials ($0.6 million), partially offset by lower camp 
catering and expatriate labour costs. 

The ultimate impact of these cost changes on the reported results for cost of sales is dependant on the relative 
levels of capital and operating activities and the buildup or drawdown of inventories during the periods presented. 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   33

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     33

Total cash cost per ounce produced in the twelve months of 2011 increased by $73 to $482 per ounce compared 

to $409 per ounce for the same period in 2010 as a result of higher operating costs described above which 
increased cash costs by $85 per ounce, partially offset by 3% higher production due to the higher throughput and 
the drawdown of gold that remained in the circuit from 2010. Total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP 
measure and is discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures”.

Cost of sales per ounce sold, which includes the impact of depreciation, depletion and amortization, for 2011 

increased to $555 per ounce compared to $479 per ounce in 2010. The increased cost of sales per ounce sold 
refl ects higher operating costs and depreciation due in part to higher throughput of lower grade ore and higher 
waste and ice movement, partially offset by higher production levels.

Mine Standby Costs
Standby costs at the Kumtor mine in 2010 totalled $1.3 million (nil in 2011) as a result of the temporary suspension 
of operations due to a ten-day strike initiated by the unionized employees on October 1, 2010. The labour dispute 
was resolved on October 10, 2010, after which Kumtor resumed full operation.

Kumtor Regional Administration 
Kumtor regional administration costs in 2011 were $15.4 million, $1 million or 7% higher than in 2010, mainly due 
to higher labour costs.

Exploration 
Exploration costs at Kumtor in 2011 were $12.7 million, $1.2 million or 10% higher than in 2010, refl ecting increased 
drilling activity. As a result, additional costs were incurred primarily for national, contractor and expatriate 
labour costs ($2.4 million) and drilling consumables ($0.5 million), partially offset by capitalizing delineation 
drilling activities on the underground Stockwork zone ($1.6 million). Expenditures on exploration in the Kumtor 
district primarily on the Karasay and Koendy licenses also increased to $0.9 million refl ecting increased 
generative and target defi nition work in the Kumtor district.

Capital Expenditures 
Capital expenditures in 2011 were $180.7 million compared to $186.5 million in 2010. The 2011 expenditures 
included $32.2 million of sustaining capital, predominantly spent on the major overhaul program for heavy duty 
equipment ($18.0 million), tailings dam lift ($4.9 million), ancillary equipment replacement ($2.6 million), 
Balykchy Marshalling Yard relocation ($1.5 million), pit dewatering system ($1.0 million), replacement of light 
vehicles ($0.7 million) and numerous other projects ($3.5 million). Growth capital investment in 2011 of 
$148.5 million was spent on pre-strip capitalization ($53.4 million), underground development of phase I and II 
($42.1 million), purchase of new CAT 789 haul trucks ($36.6 million), purchase of Liebherr shovels ($6.0 million), 
waste rock dump buttress ($2.3 million), Stockwork delineation drilling ($1.8 million), purchase of other mobile 
equipment ($1.3 million), purchase of drilling equipment ($1.2 million), purchase of three Mack trucks with 
trailers ($0.7 million), purchase of dewatering pumps ($0.6 million) and numerous other projects ($2.5 million).
The Kumtor deposit is described in the Company’s most recently fi led Annual Information Form (the “AIF”) 

and technical report dated March 22, 2011 (the “Kumtor Technical Report”) prepared in accordance with 
National Instrument 43-101 Standards for Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”). The Kumtor Technical 
Report describes the exploration history, geology and style of gold mineralization at the Kumtor deposit. Sample 
preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality control protocols used during 
the drilling programs at the Kumtor site and satellite deposits are described in the Kumtor Technical Report. 
A copy of the Kumtor Technical Report can be obtained on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 

34     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   34

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Boroo and Gatsuurt 
The Boroo open pit mine, located in Mongolia, was the fi rst hard rock gold mine in Mongolia. It has produced 
approximately 1.6 million ounces of gold since it began operation in 2004.

Boroo suspended its mining activities at the end of November 2010. Subsequently, due to delays in permitting 

of the Gatsuurt project, a decision was made to mine and process the remaining refractory ore in pit 6. Mining 
activities in pit 6 recommenced in January 2012 and are expected to continue for a period of 10 months. It is 
expected that the remaining in situ refractory ore and the oxide stockpiles at Boroo will be processed through 
the mill until the earlier of January 2014 or when the Gatsuurt regulatory commissioning occurs. Development 
of the bio-oxidation facility to process Gatsuurt’s sulphide ore is subject to receiving all required approvals and 
regulatory commissioning from the Mongolian Government allowing the Gatsuurt project to move forward.

Heap leach operations at Boroo remain under care and maintenance. The Company continues to work with 
the Mongolian authorities to obtain the fi nal heap leach operating permit. See “Other Corporate Developments 
– Mongolia”.

Boroo Operating Results

Year Ended December 31 

Gold sold – ounces 
Revenue – $ millions 
Average realized price – $/oz sold 
Cost of sales – $ millions (1) 
Cost of sales – $/oz sold 
Total tonnes mined – 000s (2) 
Average mining grade (non heap leach material) – g/t (4) 
Tonnes mined heap leach – 000s 
Tonnes ore mined direct mill feed  – 000s 
Tonnes ore milled – 000s 
Average mill head grade – g/t (3) (4) 
Recovery – % (3) 
Gold produced – ounces 
Total cash costs – $/oz produced (5) 
Total production cost – $/oz produced (5) 
Capital expenditures (Boroo) – $ millions 
Capital expenditures (Gatsuurt) – $ millions 

2011 

50,764 
79.3 
1,562 
49.7 
979 
– 
– 
– 
– 
2,340 
1.11 
68.9 
59,224 
694 
828 
6.3 
0.3 

2010 

119,316 
145.5 
1,219 
69.8 
585 
11,358 
1.33 
1,694 
2,399 
2,466 
1.86 
71.8 
111,139 
601 
770 
7.9 
17.2 

Change 

% Change

(68,552) 
(66.2) 
343 
(20.1) 
394 
(11,358) 
(1.33) 
(1,694) 
(2,399) 
(126) 
(0.75) 
(2.9) 
(51,915) 
93 
58 
(1.6) 
(16.9) 

(57%)
(46%)
28%
(29%)
67%
(100%)
(100%)
(100%)
(100%)
(5%)
(40%)
(4%)
(47%)
15%
8%
(20%)
(98%)

(1)  Cost of sales for 2011 and its comparative years exclude regional offi ce administration costs.
(2)  2010 includes heap leach material of 1,694,000 tonnes with an average mining grade of 0.70 g/t in 2010.
(3) Excludes heap leach ore.
(4) g/t means grams per tonne.
(5)  Total cash cost and total production cost are non-GAAP Measure and are discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures”.

Revenue and Gold Production:
Revenues for 2011 were $79.3 million, compared to $145.5 million in 2010, refl ecting lower sales volume partially 
offset by the higher year-over-year realized gold price. The lower ounces sold resulted from lower production 
of gold in 2011 mainly due to the suspension of mining in November 2010, the lower grades achieved from the 
stockpiled mill feed and lower ounces poured from the heap leach operation which remains idle since the expiry 
of its temporary permit at the end of April 2009. (See “Other Corporate Developments – Mongolia”.) 

Gold production at Boroo was 59,224 ounces in 2011, a reduction of 51,915 ounces of gold produced as compared 
to 2010. The reduction is mainly due to the suspension in mining activities in November 2010 and the processing 
of stockpiled materials with lower mill head grades and recovery in 2011, in addition to lower contribution from the 
heap leach operation which remains idle pending issuance of a fi nal operating permit by government authorities.

Gold production of 59,224 ounces in 2011 was within fi nal guidance for the year. Boroo’s initial 2011 guidance 

of approximately 50,000 ounces of gold was revised to approximately 60,000 ounces of gold at the end of the 
third quarter refl ecting improved recoveries from the processing of the stockpiled ore through the mill.

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     35

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   35

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Cost of sales:
The cost of sales, which includes non-cash DD&A associated with the ounces sold, was $49.7 million in 2011, 
compared to $69.8 million in 2010. The reduction is primarily the result of a 57% decrease in ounces sold in 2011 
as compared to 2010. The cost of sales per ounce sold of $979 in 2011 ($585 per ounce in 2010) was higher due to 
the decrease in gold production partially offset by lower operating costs.

Depreciation, depletion and amortization from operations in 2011 totalled $10.1 million, a decrease of $6.1 million 

or 38% compared to 2010. The reduction results mainly from the lower sales and production volumes in 2011 
which impacted the equipment depreciated on a unit-of-production basis. Rates of depreciation for equipment 
depreciated on a straight-line basis are not reduced as a result of lower production. In addition pit 3 pre-stripping 
was fully amortized by the end of the third quarter of 2010. (See “2012 Outlook” and “2012 Depreciation, Depletion 
and Amortization”.)

The operating costs (including costs such as mining, process ing, site administration, and royalties) for the year 

decreased by $24.3 million compared to 2010. 

Mining costs in 2011 were $2.1 million, $18.5 million or 90% lower than 2010, as mining activities were 
suspended at the end of November 2010 and remained this way throughout 2011. The mining costs incurred 
during 2011 represent continuing activities for site supervision, road maintenance work and maintenance on 
equipment used on the tailings dam construction and reclamation requirements.
Milling costs in 2011 of $21.2 million remained unchanged from the prior year. 
Costs for heap leaching activities of $0.3 million in 2011 were $2.0 million or 88% lower than 2010. Stacking 

and crushing activities were suspended during the second quarter of 2010 pending issuance of the operating 
permit, and in July 2011 the plant stopped the recirculation of solution. 

Site administration costs in 2011 decreased by 8% to $7.7 million, $0.7 million lower than in 2010. This is 
mainly due to lower camp catering costs incurred as a result of the lower number of manpower residing at the 
mine site, since mining operation was halted in November 2010.

Royalties decreased in 2011 by $3.3 million or 45% to $3.9 million due to the 57% lower ounces sold in 2011 

compared to 2010, partially offset by higher realized gold price.

The ultimate impact of these cost changes on the reported results for cost of sales is dependant on the relative 

levels of capital and operating activities and the build-up or drawdown of inventories during the periods 
presented. 

Total cash costs per ounce produced increased to $694 per ounce for 2011 compared to $601 per ounce in 2010. 
This increase results primarily from reduced levels of production partially offset by lower costs. Total cash cost of 
$694 per ounce produced in 2011 was lower than the revised guidance of approximately $750 per ounce provided 
in the third quarter for 2011 and refl ects lower operating costs. (Total cash cost per ounce is a non-GAAP measure 
and is discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures”.)

On a unit cost basis, cost of sales per ounce sold, which includes the impact of depreciation, depletion and 

amortization, increased to $979 in 2011 compared to $585 in 2010 refl ecting the lower ounces sold.

Boroo Regional Administration:
Regional administration costs in 2011 decreased by 12% to $6.0 million, $0.8 million lower than in 2010. This is 
mainly due to lower payroll related cost and lower administrative expenditures.

Exploration:
No expenditures were made on exploration by the Company at the Boroo mine site in either 2011 or 2010. 
Exploration expenditures in Mongolia were $11.4 million in 2011 compared to $8.2 million in 2010. This refl ects 
signifi cant additional drilling performed on the Altan Tsagaan Ovoo property in northeast Mongolia to follow up 
on the discovery of signifi cant precious/base metal mineralization on the property.

36     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   36

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Capital Expenditures:
Capital expenditures at Boroo were $6.3 million in 2011 compared to $7.9 million in 2010. The decrease is mainly 
due to lower mobile equipment component change-outs performed as a result of halting the mining activities in 
November 2010. At Gatsuurt, $0.3 million was spent in 2011 mainly for contractors’ costs, as compared to 2010 
when $17.3 million was spent on road building and development of phases 1 and 2 of the project.

The Boroo deposit is described in the Company’s most recently fi led AIF and a technical report dated 
December 17, 2009 prepared in accordance with NI 43-101, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 
The technical report describes the exploration history, geology and style of gold mineralization at the Boroo 
deposit. Sample preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality control 
protocols used during the drilling programs at the Boroo site are the same as, or similar to, those described 
in the technical report.

Gatsuurt Project 
As at December 31, 2011, proven and probable reserves for the Gatsuurt Project are estimated at 16.3 million 
tonnes averaging 2.8 g/t for a total of 1.5 million ounces of contained gold. Measured and Indicated resources are 
exclusive of proven and probable reserves and are estimated at 5.5 million tonnes averaging 2.4 g/t for a total of 
426,000 ounces of contained gold. 

In December 2005, a feasibility study was completed with the conclusion that mining and processing of the 
Gatsuurt Project ores was technically and economically feasible. The plan proposed in the feasibility study is to 
mine the Gatsuurt Project ores by open pit mining methods, to transport the mined ore by a 55 kilometres haulage 
road to the Boroo processing plant for gold extraction, and the production of doré bars for sale. The mined waste 
will be stored at the Gatsuurt site in areas designated for that purpose. 

The Gatsuurt Project anticipates mining and processing of the Gatsuurt Project ores in two phases; an oxide 
ore phase and a sulphide ore phase. The oxide ore phase encompasses mining of the Gatsuurt oxide and transition 
ores, haulage of the ores to the Boroo processing plant, and processing of the ores utilizing the existing Boroo CIL 
facility. As sulphide ores are encountered during mining, they will be stockpiled at the Gatsuurt site for future 
processing. Concurrent with the oxide ore phase, a fl otation and bio-oxidation facility will be constructed at the 
Boroo processing plant in preparation of processing the Gatsuurt Project sulphide phase ores. The sulphide ore 
phase encompasses the mining, haulage and processing of the Gatsuurt Project sulphide ores, which are refractory 
in nature, through a fl otation and bio-oxidation facility constructed at the Boroo processing plant. 

The Company anticipates overall gold recovery of 87% for the Gatsuurt Project oxide ore, and 73% for the 
transitional ore, using the existing Boroo processing facility. Pilot plant test results have confi rmed that an overall 
gold recovery of 87% is achievable for the refractory sulphide ore utilizing bio-oxidation technology followed by 
cyanide leaching.

Approval to begin construction of the Gatsuurt Project was received from Centerra’s Board of Directors in 

December 2008. To date, $33.3 million has been expended on pre-production site construction and initial 
engineering of the proposed fl otation and bio-oxidation facility. The Gatsuurt Project site infrastructure and 
engineering for the fl otation and bio-oxidation facility are substantially complete. Completed site infrastructure 
includes a 55 km haul road to the Boroo mill, a services and administration building, a water diversion system of 
dams and channels, a construction camp, pads for ore and waste stockpiles, and a fueling station. Going forward, 
all development and construction activities at Gatsuurt have been suspended pending clarifi cation of the impact 
of the Water and Forest Law on the Gatsuurt Project and until fi nal approvals and regulatory commissioning to 
commence mining are received. See “Other Corporate Developments – Mongolia”.

The Gatsuurt deposit is described in the Company’s most recently fi led AIF and a technical report dated May 9, 

2006 prepared in accordance with NI 43-101, which are available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The technical 
report describes the exploration history, geology and style of gold mineralization at the Gatsuurt deposit. Sample 
preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality control protocols used during 
the drilling programs at the Gatsuurt site are the same as, or similar to, those described in the technical report. 

The development of Gatsuurt is subject to certain risks and uncertainties. See “Other Corporate Developments 

– Mongolia” and “Risk Factors”.

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     37

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   37

27/03/12   8:21 AM

FOURTH QUARTER RESULTS
Financial and Operating Summary

Three Months Ended December 31 

Revenue – $ millions 
Cost of sales – $ millions 
Net earnings – $ millions 
Earnings per common share – $ basic and diluted 
Cash provided by operations – $ millions 
Capital expenditures – $ millions 
Average realized gold price – $/oz sold 
Gold sold – ounces 
Cost of sales – $/oz sold 
Gold produced – ounces 
Total cash cost – $/oz produced (1) 
Total production cost – $/oz produced (1) 

2011 

248.0 
104.1 
79.4 
0.34 
60.3 
30.0 
1,690 
146,704 
709 
151,562 
603 
820 

2010 

Change 

% Change

322.2 
89.6 
150.8 
0.64 
129.5 
55.4 
1,376 
234,148 
383 
249,866 
308 
401 

(74.3) 
14.5 
(71.3) 
(0.30) 
(69.2) 
(25.4) 
314 
(87,444) 
327 
(98,304) 
295 
419 

(23%)
16%
(47%)
(47%)
(53%)
(46%)
23%
(37%)
85%
(39%)
96%
104%

(1)  Total cash cost and total production cost are non-GAAP measures and are discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures”. As a result of Kumtor’s Restated Investment Agreement, total 

cash cost and total production cost per ounce measures have been restated to exclude operating and revenue-based taxes.

Overview
In the fourth quarter of 2011, the Company recorded net earnings of $79.4 million or $0.34 per common share, 
compared to net earnings of $150.8 million ($0.64 per common share) over the same period of 2010. In 2010, 
gold production was heavily weighted to the fourth quarter while in 2011 production was more evenly spaced 
throughout the year.

Revenue and Gold Production:
Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2011 was $248.0 million compared to $322.2 million during the same period of 
2010. Fourth quarter 2011 revenue refl ects a 37% decrease in ounces sold (146,704 ounces in the fourth quarter 
2011 versus 234,148 ounces in the fourth quarter of 2010). Lower sold ounces were partially offset by a higher 
realized gold price ($1,690 per ounce in the fourth quarter of 2011 versus $1,376 per ounce in the fourth quarter 
of 2010). 

The Company produced 151,562 ounces in the fourth quarter of 2011, 98,304 ounces or 39% lower than the 
same period in 2010. Lower gold production was realized at both Boroo and Kumtor. The Boroo production in the 
fourth quarter of 2011 was lower by 8,567 ounces compared to the same period of 2010 due to lower grades and 
lower recovery of the stockpiled ore processed by the mill. In 2010, the Boroo operation was still mining until the 
end of November. The Kumtor production in the fourth quarter of 2011 was lower by 89,737 ounces compared to 
the same period of 2010 when the mill processed higher grade material (averaging 7.1 g/t) from the newly exposed 
cut-back 12A. The majority of the mill feed processed by Kumtor in the fourth quarter of 2011 included ore 
sourced from cut-back 12B which resulted in a lower head grade (averaging 3.8 g/t) and recovery than the 
comparative quarter.

Cost of sales:
Cost of sales, which includes non-cash DD&A associated with the ounces sold, was $104.1 million in the fourth 
quarter 2011 which is an increase of $14.5 million or 16% compared to the same period of 2010. The increase 
resulted from higher operating and non-cash costs at Kumtor, where 35% more waste and ice tonnage was moved 
in the fourth quarter 2011 compared to the same period of the prior year, higher labour costs due to the new 
collective agreement and the higher social fund contributions resulting from its application to the high altitude 
premium ($2.3 million incremental cost in the fourth quarter of 2011 where the Company also paid the employees’ 
share), partially offset by lower sales volumes. 

38     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   38

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Depreciation, depletion and amortization from operations increased by $10.6 million in the fourth quarter of 
2011 compared to the same period last year, mainly from the increased depreciation of the expanded mining fl eet, 
the higher throughput achieved at Kumtor including the movement of waste and ice and the amortization of the 
pre-stripping costs from cut-back 12B at Kumtor.

Fourth quarter operating cash costs (including costs such as mining, processing, site administration, and 
royalties) prior to the allocation to capitalized pre-stripping increased fro  m $79.7 million in 2010 to $91.7 million 
in 2011. Allocation to pre-stripping was lower in 2011 totalling $6.0 million compared with $10.9 million in 2010 
making the operating cash costs $85.7 million in 2011 compared with $68.8 million in 2010 on a net basis. The 
increase is explained as follows:

At Kumtor, quarter over quarter, operating costs (before allocation to capitalized pre-stripping) increased by 

$17.9 million or 28% primarily due to higher mining costs (up $14.7 million), higher milling costs ($1.3 million) 
and higher site administration costs ($1.9 million). The increase in mining costs of $14.7 million (39% higher than 
the same quarter in 2010) refl ects the higher mining rate achieved during the fourth quarter of 2011 where 26% 
more tonnes of waste and ore were moved with Kumtor’s expanded mining fl eet. The higher costs are due to the 
increased mining activity which includes diesel ($6.3 million including a $1.9 million effect due to the price 
increasing from US$0.68 to US$0.76 cents), national labour cost due to increased workforce and social fund 
payments as discussed in “Other Corporate Developments” ($3.4 million), and higher costs for explosives 
($1.8 million) of which $1.4 million is a result of a higher purchase price and higher maintenance, tire and 
lubricant costs due to the expanded fl eet ($1.5 million), lower allocation of service equipment ($0.7 million) and 
other increases of $1.0 million. The milling and site administration costs increased due to higher national labour, 
reagents and diesel costs.

Operating costs at Boroo were down $5.9 million quarter-over-quarter primarily due to reduced costs for 
mining ($4.6 million), heap leaching ($0.4 million) and royalties ($1.3 million), partially offset by an increase 
in milling costs ($0.4 million). The mining costs were lower as Boroo ceased mining activities at the end of 
November 2010. Heap leaching costs were $0.4 million lower as no crushing and stacking activities occurred 
starting in the fourth quarter of 2010, and the recirculation of solution was stopped in the fourth quarter of 2011. 
Royalties decreased in 2011 due to the 57% fewer ounces sold in the 2011 fourth quarter.

The impact of these cost changes on cost of sales and other reported results varies with the changing levels of 

capital and operating activities and the build-up or drawdown of inventories during the periods presented.

On a unit basis, cost of sales per ounce sold for the fourth quarter of 2011 was $709 compared to $383 for the 
same period of 2010 primarily due to lower production, higher operating costs where lower grade ore was mined 
and processed and higher waste and ice was moved in the fourth quarter of 2011.

Total cash cost per ounce produced was $603 in the fourth quarter of 2011 compared to $308 per ounce in 

the same period of 2010 after allocation of costs to capitalized pre-stripping. Total cash operating costs of 
$91.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2011 were $14.4 million or 19% higher than the $77.7 million in the same 
period in 2010. Gold production in the fourth quarter of 2011 was signifi cantly down by 98,304 ounces or 39%, 
refl ecting lower grades processed primarily from stockpiles at Kumtor compared to the high grade material from 
cut-back 12B mined and processed in the fourth quarter of 2010, lower grade material processed at Boroo in the 
fourth quarter of 2011, lower recoveries at both sites and higher cash operating costs refl ecting a larger fl eet 
which increased throughput to move signifi cantly higher levels of rock waste and ice at Kumtor. (Total cash cost 
is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under “Non-GAAP Measure – Total Cash Cost.”)

Mine Standby Costs
During the fourth quarter 2010 Kumtor recorded $1.3 million as standby costs as a result of the temporary 
suspension of operations due to a ten-day strike initiated by the unionized employees on October 1, 2010. 
The labour dispute was resolved on October 10, 2010, after which Kumtor resumed full operation.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   39

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     39

Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization
Depreciation, depletion and amortization associated with production in the fourth quarter 2011 totalled 
$30.3 million, an increase of $10.6 million or 54% as compared to the same period in 2010 due to higher 
depreciation at Kumtor as a result of the increased capital fl eet including the 36 new larger haul trucks which 
were fully commissioned at the end of the third quarter 2011 and increased amortization of deferred pre-stripping 
costs in the fourth quarter of 2011. In addition, Kumtor moved 35% more waste and ice while capitalizing less of 
these non-cash pre-stripping costs in the fourth quarter of 2011 ($2.2 million capitalized in Q4 2011 compared to 
$3.5 million in Q4 2010). 

Exploration: 
Exploration expenditures for the fourth quarter of 2011 were $11.7 million compared to $11.2 million in the fourth 
quarter of 2010 refl ecting continued signifi cant spending at the Kumtor property, at the ATO project in Mongolia 
and at the Kara Beldyr project in Russia.

Kyrgyz Republic
A total of $2.9 million was spent on exploration in the Kyrgyz Republic in the fourth quarter of 2011. The drilling 
program on the Kumtor property focused on testing the extent and grade of mineralization within and below the 
current KS11 pit design and for mineralization at deeper elevations in the Saddle and SB Zones. Drilling in the 
fourth quarter to test the Southwest Extension of the SB Zone returned a number of signifi cant mineralized 
intercepts both within and immediately below the KS11 design pit. This drilling has continued to outline a new 
zone of mineralization fi rst identifi ed in drilling at the start of 2011 that lies immediately to the northwest of the 
Southwest Extension of the SB Zone. This drilling has had a positive impact on the year-end resource estimate. 

Regional exploration drilling continued in the fourth quarter of 2011 with up to four drills testing targets in the 

Northeast, Sarytor, and Southwest areas. The drilling programs were designed to test the extensions to known 
mineralization with encouraging results. The drilling of these targets will continue into 2012.

Mongolia
In Mongolia, $4.2 million was spent on exploration in the fourth quarter of 2011 mainly in the Dornod region 
where exploration was carried out in the ATO District and included diamond drilling, trenching, mapping, 
geochemical and geophysical surveys and on the ATO project where exploration drilling, baseline and 
environmental work were continued. 

Russia
Spending in Russia in the fourth quarter of 2011 totalled $1.8 million and focused mainly on the more advanced 
Kara Beldyr project ($1.1 million) and to a lesser extent the recently acquired Dvoinoy project ($0.4 million). 

On the Kara Beldyr property, drilling on the Gord, Ezen and Camp Zones continued to provide encouraging 

results intersecting known mineralization and confi rming continuity of previous intercepts. 

At the Dvoinoy project, a drill program was started in early December to test geochemical and geophysical 

anomalies identifi ed over the Dvoinoy prospect. Drilling will continue into 2012.

Turkey
Spending in Turkey during the fourth quarter of 2011 totalled $0.9 million, mainly on the Öksüt project where 
Centerra earned a 50% interest in the joint venture during the quarter. Drilling of the Ortaçam North prospect 
on the Öksüt JV continued to return signifi cant intercepts of oxidised gold mineralization. The drilling program 
will continue in 2012 to further test the mineralized zone identifi ed.

Other Expenses
In the fourth quarter of 2011, Boroo recorded a charge of $2.6 million for the resolution of a claim with the 
Mongolian government regarding sterilized alluvial reserves on the Boroo property (see “Other Corporate 
Developments”). 

40     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   40

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Net Earnings
Net earnings for the fourth quarter of 2011 were $79.4 million or $0.34 per share compared to $150.6 million or 
$0.64 for the comparative quarter of 2010.

Cash Flow
Cash provided by operations was $60.3 million for the fourth quarter of 2011 compared to $129.5 million for the 
fourth quarter of the prior year. The decrease refl ects primarily lower earnings from lower production in the 
fourth quarter of 2011.

Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures in the fourth quarter of 2011 totalled $30.0 million compared to $55.4 million in the same 
period of 2010. Capital expenditures included $9.0 million spent and accrued on sustaining capital projects 
($9.4 million in the same period of 2010) and $21.0 million invested in growth capital ($46.0 million in the same 
period of 2010). The major growth capital initiatives at Kumtor were related to the underground development 
project ($11.1 million) and the capitalized pre-stripping for cut-back 14A ($8.3 million). The growth capital 
expenditures for Boroo and Gatsuurt in the fourth quarter of 2011 amounted to $0.3 million compared to 
$1.2 million in the same period of 2010 which represented spending at Boroo on raising the main cell of the 
tailings dam to process Boroo ores.

Goodwill:
During fourth quarter ended December 31, 2011, the Company undertook its normal annual review of goodwill 
which is related to the Kyrgyz reporting unit. As a result, management concluded that current circumstances did 
not indicate that the carrying value of the Kyrgyz reporting unit exceeded its fair value. 

Taxes:
Centerra recorded revenue-based tax expense of $33.6 million for the Kyrgyz segment in the fourth quarter of 
2011 compared to $40.5 million in the same period in 2010. In the Mongolian segment, an income tax expense 
of $0.9 million was recorded in the fourth quarter of 2011 compared to a recovery of $4.0 million in the fourth 
quarter of 2010. 

The decrease in the revenue-based tax expense recorded by the Kyrgyz segment refl ects 17% lower revenue in 

the last quarter of 2011. 

Income tax expense in the Mongolian segment is determined by reference to the Mongolian Tugrik (MNT). 
The increase of $4.9 million in income tax expense in the segment in the fourth quarter of 2011 compared to the 
fourth quarter of 2010 resulted primarily from the tax expense recorded as a result of the weakening MNT versus 
the U.S. dollar in the fourth quarter 2011 on Boroo’s U.S. dollar-denominated monetary assets. 

QUARTERLY RESULTS – LAST EIGHT QUARTERS 

Over the last eight quarters, Centerra’s results refl ect the positive impact of rising gold prices and increasing cash 
costs. Non-cash costs have also progressively increased over 2011 as depreciation at Kumtor grew with its expanded 
mining fl eet and the amortization of capitalized stripping. Cost of sales in the second and third quarters of 2011 
included a charge for the settlement of the Kyrgyz Social Fund audit totalling $14.1 million and an increase to labour 
costs in the fourth quarter of 2011 resulting from the revised social fund calculation which now includes the high 
altitude premium (note that the Company paid both the employer and employee portions). In the fi rst quarter of 
2011 cost of sales was reduced due to the processing of low cost ore stockpiled in the fourth quarter of 2010 when 
Kumtor accessed and mined high grade material from the central pit. Cost of sales was also impacted by higher costs 
of labour and diesel in the second, third and fourth quarters of 2011. Other charges for Kumtor in the third quarter 
of 2011 include $10 million for special funding of a school improvement program in the Kyrgyz Republic, while 
Boroo committed to funding and accrued for the construction of a maternity hospital totalling $6.4 million in the 
fourth quarter of 2010. The fourth quarter of 2011 includes other charges of $2.5 million for the resolution of a claim 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     41

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   41

27/03/12   8:21 AM

by the Mongolian authorities in relation to the sterilization of alluvial reserves at the Boroo property (see “Other 
Corporate Developments”). The results for the third quarter of 2010 include the gain on sale of the REN exploration 
property of $34.9 million. The quarterly fi nancial results for the last eight quarters are shown below: 

Key results by quarter

Quarterly Data Unaudited 

$ millions, except per share data 

Revenue 
Net earnings 
Earnings per share  

Q4 

248 
79 

2011 

Q3 

278 
84 

Q2 

244 
71 

2010 (1)

Q1 

250 
137 

Q4 

323 
151 

Q3 

120 
17 

Q2 

152 
30 

Q1

255
124

(basic and diluted) 

0.34 

0.35 

0.30 

0.58 

0.64 

0.07 

0.13 

0.53

(1)  revised under IFRS

BALANCE SHEET 
Inventory
Total inventory at December 31, 2011 of $292 million ($195 million at December 31, 2010) includes gold inventory 
of $136 million ($82 million in 2010) and supplies inventory of $156 million ($113 million in 2010). The increase 
refl ects a build-up of gold inventory and in-transit gold inventory at the end of 2011 and increased parts 
requirements from the expanded capital fl eet at Kumtor.

Property, Plant and Equipment
The aggregate book value of property, plant and equipment at December 31, 2011 of $590 million, compares to 
$519 million at the end of 2010 and is allocated as follows: Kyrgyz $469 million, Mongolia $120 million and 
corporate entities $1 million. The increase in 2011 relates mainly to the growth projects at Kumtor, being the 
underground project and the mine fl eet expansion.

Share capital
As of February 23, 2012, Centerra had 236,353,942 shares outstanding and options to acquire 737,547 common 
shares outstanding under its stock option plan with exercise prices ranging between Cdn$4.81 and Cdn$22.28 
per share, with expiry dates ranging between 2014 and 2017. 

Asset Retirement Obligations 
The total future asset retirement obligations were estimated by management based on the Company’s ownership 
interest in all mines and facilities, estimated costs to reclaim the mine sites and facilities and the estimated timing 
of the costs to be incurred in future periods.

The Company has estimated the net present value of the total asset retirement obligations to be $55.6 million 
as at December 31, 2011 (December 31, 2010 – $40.3 million). These payments are expected to commence over the 
next 1 to 10 years. The Company used a risk-free rate of 2.0% at Kumtor and 0.6% at Boroo to calculate the present 
value of the asset retirement obligations.

The increase in 2011 in the present value of the obligation of $15.3 million was mainly as a result of the latest 
update to the closure costs estimates at both sites which increased the provision by $16.5 million, an accretion 
increase of $1.2 million, partially offset by cash spending on on-going reclamation of $2.4 million. In December 
2011, the Company revised the closure plan at Boroo with the effect of deferring the reclamation spending at the 
site and updated the closure costs for Kumtor and Boroo. As a result of the increase in estimated mine life, decrease 
in discount rate and update to the closure cost plan the present value of the obligation at Boroo increased by 
$9.0 million. A similar update to Kumtor’s closure cost plan and decrease in discount rate resulted in an increase 
to the obligation of $7.5 million.

The Company’s future undiscounted decommissioning and reclamation costs have been estimated to be 

$62.9 million before salvage value.

42     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   42

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
Gold Hedging and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements 
The Company had no gold hedges in place as of December 31, 2011. Centerra currently intends that its gold 
production will remain unhedged.

Centerra does not enter into off-balance sheet arrangements with special purpose entities in the normal 

course of its business, nor does it have any unconsolidated affi liates. In the case of joint ventures, the Company’s 
proportionate interest for consolidation purposes is equivalent to the economic returns to which it is entitled 
as a joint venture partner.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
At December 31, 2011, Centerra held cash and cash equivalents of $195.5 million, plus short-term investments of 
$372.7 million. In November 2010, Centerra secured a three-year, $150 million revolving credit facility to increase 
liquidity available for future growth initiatives. Centerra believes it has suffi cient cash to carry out its business 
plan in 2012, including its exploration plans. To the extent that a new property is acquired and/or developed, 
additional fi nancing may be required. Continued uncertainty in global fi nancial markets has constrained the 
ability of many companies to access capital markets funding. Although Centerra has no current requirements for 
such funding, the markets have retained an interest in gold producers and, under the right conditions, equity 
issues of many of these companies have been well received. With the conclusion in 2009 of the transactions 
contemplated in the Agreement on New Terms (June 11, 2009) and the divestiture by Cameco of its interest in 
Centerra (December 30, 2009), management of Centerra believes that the Company is well positioned to grow 
and may contemplate an equity issue to support growth initiatives. (See “Caution Regarding Forward Looking 
Information” and “Risk Factors”.)

The Company’s cash is derived from cash provided by operating activities. A summary of the Company’s cash 

position and changes in cash is provided below:

$ millions 

Cash provided by operating activities 
Short-term investments redeemed (purchased) – net 
Cash provided by (used in) other investing activities 
Cash provided by (used in) fi nancing activities 
Cash provided (used) during the year 
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of the year 
Cash and cash equivalents, end of the year 

2011 

435 
(290) 
(183) 
(97) 
(135) 
331 
196 

2010

281
64
(183)
(8)
154
177
331

Cash provided by operations was $435 million in 2011 compared to $281 million in 2010. The increase over 2010 
refl ects higher earnings from higher realized prices and lower working capital levels, partially offset by higher 
operating costs and lower production. 

Investing activities in 2011 totalled $474 million, including $290 million in U.S. Government securities and 
commercial paper purchased in the year and investments of $35 million in sustaining capital and $141 million 
in growth capital spent at the Kumtor and Boroo mines. The comparative in 2010 of $119 million includes the 
receipt of $64 million in matured funds from short-term U.S. Government securities and commercial paper, 
proceeds of $35 million on the sale of the REN property and further refl ects $44 million of sustaining capital 
and $164 million of growth capital spent at the Kumtor and Boroo mines. Cash spent on fi nancing activities 
includes a dividend payment in 2011 of $99 million, compared to a $14 million dividend paid in 2010. 

Working capital, which consists of accounts receivable, prepaids, inventory, supplies and accounts payable, 

increased in 2011 by $44 million compared to an increase of $79 million in 2010.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   43

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     43

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

The following table summarizes Centerra’s contractual obligations, including payments due for the next fi ve 
years and thereafter, as of December 31, 2011. 

$ millions 

Kumtor
  Reclamation trust deed (1) 
  Capital equipment (2) 
  Operational supplies 
  Lease of premises
Boroo
  Conservation fund (3) 
  Capital projects 
Corporate
  Lease of premises (4) 
Total contractual obligations 

Due in  
Less than  
One year 

Due in 
1 to 3 
Years 

Due in 
4 to 5 
Years 

Due
After 5
Years

$ 

8.2 

$ 

 7.7 

$ 

7.9

$ 

4.1 
  98.2
  44.5

Total 

$  27.9 
  98.2 
  44.5 

0.1 
  0.2 

0.1 
  0.2 

– 
– 

– 
– 

2.1 
$  173.0  

  0.4 
$  147.5  

  0.8 
9.0  

$ 

  0.9 
8.6  

$ 

$ 

–
–

–
7.9

(1)  Centerra’s future decommissioning and reclamation costs for the Kumtor mine are estimated to be $37.0 million. The estimated future cost of closure, reclamation and 

decommissioning of the project are used as the basis for calculating the amount to be deposited in the Reclamation Trust Fund ($27.9 million). This restricted cash is funded by 
sales revenue, annually in arrears and on December 31, 2011 the balance in the fund was $9.1 million (2010 – $7.4 million), with the remaining $27.6 million to be funded over the 
life of the mine.

(2) Agreement as at December 31, 2011 to purchase capital equipment.
(3) The Company has agreed to donate funds to the Tiamen conservation fund in Mongolia. 
(4) Lease of corporate offi ce premises expiring in November 2016.

NON-GAAP MEASURES

This MD&A presents information about total cash cost of production of an ounce of gold and total production 
cost per ounce for the operating properties of Centerra. Except as otherwise noted, total cash cost per ounce 
produced is calculated by dividing total cash costs by gold ounces produced for the relevant period. Total 
production cost per ounce produced includes total cash cost plus depreciation, depletion and amortization 
divided by gold ounces produced for the relevant period. Total cash cost and total production cost per ounce 
produced are non-GAAP measures.

Total cash costs include mine operating costs such as mining, processing, administration, royalties and 

operating taxes (except at Kumtor where revenue-based taxes are excluded), but exclude amortization, 
reclamation costs, fi nancing costs, capital development and exploration. Certain amounts of stock-based 
compensation have been excluded as well. Total production costs includes total cash cost plus depreciation, 
depletion and amortization. Total cash cost per ounce produced and total production cost per ounce produced 
have been included because certain investors use this information to assess performance and also to determine 
the ability of Centerra to generate cash fl ow for use in investing and other activities. The inclusion of total cash 
cost per ounce produced and total production cost per ounce produced may enable investors to better understand 
year-over-year changes in production costs, which in turn affect profi tability and cash fl ow.

44     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   44

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Cash Cost per ounce Produced and Total Production Cost per ounce Produced 
can be reconciled as follows:

(unaudited) 

Year ended December 31,

Fourth Quarter

($ millions, unless otherwise specifi ed) 

2011 

2010 

2011 

2010

Centerra:
Cost of sales, as reported 
  Less: Non-cash component 
Cost of sales, cash component 
Adjust for: Refi ning fees & by-product credits 
  Regional offi ce administration 
  Mining Standby Costs 
  Non-operating costs 
Inventory movement 

Total cash cost – 100% 
  Depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion 

Inventory movement – non-cash 

Total production cost – 100% 
Ounces poured – 100% (000) 
Total cash cost per ounce produced 
Total production cost per ounce produced 

Kumtor:
Cost of sales, as reported 
  Less: Non-cash component 
Cost of sales, cash component 
Adjust for: Refi ning fees & by-product credits 
  Regional offi ce administration 
  Mining Standby Costs 
  Non-operating costs 
Inventory movement 

Total cash cost – 100% 
  Depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion 

Inventory movement – non-cash 

Total production cost – 100% 
Ounces poured – 100% (000) 
Total cash cost per ounce produced 
Total production cost per ounce produced 

Boroo:
Cost of sales, as reported 
Less: Non-cash component 
Cost of sales, cash component 
Adjust for: Refi ning fees & by-product credits 
  Regional offi ce administration 
  Mining Standby Costs 
  Non-operating costs 
Inventory movement 

Total cash cost – 100% 
  Depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion 

Inventory movement – non-cash 

Total production cost – 100% 
Ounces poured – 100% (000) 
Total cash cost per ounce produced 
Total production cost per ounce produced 

$  382.3 
  98.4 
$  283.9 
(3.3) 
  21.3 
0.2 
  (14.1) 
  34.4 
$  322.4 
  99.3 
19.5 
$  441.1 
  642.4 
$  502 
$  687 

$  332.6 
  88.3 
$  244.3 
(3.3) 
15.3 
– 
  (14.1) 
  39.1 
$  281.3 
  88.9 
  22.0 
$  392.2 
  583.2 
$  482 
$  673 

$  49.7 
10.1 
$  39.6 
(0.1) 
6.0 
0.2 
– 
(4.7) 
$  41.1 
10.4 
(2.5) 
$  49.0 
  59.2 
$  694 
$  828 

$  342.2 
  75.6 
$  266.6 
(0.1) 
  21.1 
1.3 
(0.2) 
10.1 
$  298.8 
  76.3 
1.6 
$  376.7 
  678.9 
$  440 
555 
$ 

$  272.4 
  59.4 
$  213.0 
(0.2) 
14.3 
1.3 
– 
3.6 
$  232.0 
  59.6 
(0.5) 
$  291.1 
  567.8 
$  409 
513 
$ 

$  69.8 
16.2 
$  53.6 
0.1 
6.8 
– 
(0.2) 
6.5 
$  66.8 
16.7 
2.1 
$  85.6 
  111.1 
601 
770 

$ 
$ 

$  104.1 
  30.3 
$  73.8 
(0.3) 
5.9 
– 
– 
11.9 
$  91.3 
  30.5 
2.5 
$  124.3 
  151.6 
$  603 
$  820 

$  96.9 
  29.1 
$  67.7 
(0.3) 
4.1 
– 
– 
8.9 
$  80.4 
  29.2 
2.5 
$  112.1 
  138.7 
$  580 
$  808 

$  89.6
19.7
$  70.0
(0.3)
6.7
1.3
0.7
(1.4)
$  76.9
19.8
3.5
$  100.2
  249.8
308
401

$ 
$ 

$ 

72.1
17.7
$  54.4
(0.3)
4.7
1.3
0.7
(1.2)
$  59.6
17.7
2.4
79.7
  228.4
261
349

$ 
$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

7.2 
1.1 
6.1 
– 
1.8 
– 
– 
3.0 
10.9 
1.3 
– 
12.2 
12.9 
$  849 
951 
$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

17.5
2.0
15.5
–
2.0
–
–
(0.2)
17.3
2.1
1.1
$  20.5
  21.4
810
959

$ 
$ 

$ 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   45

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Kyrgyzaltyn JSC 
Revenues from the Kumtor gold mine are subject to a management fee of $1.00 per ounce based on sales volumes, 
payable to Kyrgyzaltyn JSC (“Kyrgyzaltyn”), a shareholder of the Company and a state-owned entity of the 
Kyrgyz Republic.

The table below summarizes 100% of the management fees and concession payments paid and accrued by 
Kumtor Gold Company to Kyrgyzaltyn and the amounts paid and accrued by Kyrgyzaltyn to Kumtor according to 
the terms of a Restated Gold and Silver Sales Agreement between KOC, Kyrgyzaltyn and the Government of the 
Kyrgyz Republic, entered into in June 2009. 

Twelve months ended December 31
($ thousands) 

Management fees paid by KGC to Kyrgyzaltyn 

Gross gold and silver sales from KGC to Kyrgyzaltyn 
Deduct: refi nery and fi nancing charges 
Net sales revenue received by KGC from Kyrgyzaltyn 

2011 

2010

$ 

599 

$ 

568

$ 944,020 
(2,947) 
$  941,073 

$  706,823
(2,558)
$ 704,265

Gold produced by the Kumtor mine is purchased at the mine site by Kyrgyzaltyn for processing at its refi nery in 
the Kyrgyz Republic pursuant to a Restated Gold and Silver Sale Agreement (the “Sales Agreement”). Under the 
Sales Agreement Kyrgyzaltyn is required to pay for gold within 12 calendar days of shipment from the Kumtor 
mill at a price that is fi xed based on the London PM fi xed price of gold on the London Bullion Market. The 
obligations of Kyrgyzaltyn are partially secured by a pledge of 2,850,000 shares of Centerra owned by Kyrgyzaltyn, 
the value of which fl uctuates with the market price of Centerra’s shares. Based on movements of Centerra’s share 
price, and the value of individual or unsettled gold shipments, the maximum exposure refl ecting the shortfall in 
the value of the security as compared to the value of any unsettled shipments during the year, was $44.8 million 
for 2011 and $35.5 million in 2010.

As at December 31, 2011, $47.4 million was outstanding under the Sales Agreement (December 31, 2010 – 

$89 million).

Related party balances
The assets and liabilities of the Company include the following amounts due from and to Kyrgyzaltyn:

(Thousands of US$) 

Prepaid expenses 
Amounts receivable  
Total related party assets 
Amounts payable  
Total related party liabilities 

Dividend

(Thousands of US$) 

Dividends paid to Kyrgyzaltyn  

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$ 

143 
  47,366 
$  47,509 
– 
$ 
– 
$ 

$ 

12 
  88,997 
$  89,009 
– 
$ 
– 
$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

–
37,861
37,861
175
175

2011 

2010

$  29,412 

$ 

4,412

TRANSACTIONS WITH DIRECTORS AND KEY MANAGEMENT

The Company transacts with key individuals from management and with its directors who have authority and 
responsibility to plan, direct and control the activities of the Company. The nature of these dealings were in the 
form of payments for services rendered in their capacity as director (director fees, including share-based payments) 
and as employees of the Company (salaries, benefi ts and share-based payments). 

46     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   46

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Key management personnel are defi ned as the executive offi cers of the Company including the President and 
Chief Executive Offi cer, Vice President and Chief Financial Offi cer, Vice President and Chief Operating Offi cer, 
Senior Vice President Global Exploration, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Vice President Business 
Development and Vice President Human Resources. 

During 2011 and 2010, remuneration to directors and key management personnel were as follows:

Thousand of US$ 

Key Management Personnel
Salaries and benefi ts 
Share-based compensation:
  Earned during the year 
  Appreciation during the year from previous grants 

Directors
Fees earned and other compensation 
Share-based compensation:
  Earned during the year 
  Appreciation during the year from previous grants 

2011 

2010

$ 

5,462 

$ 

5,461

8,280 
941 
$  14,683 

$ 

1,055 

1,151 
(607) 
1,599 

$ 

6,546
4,788
16,795

945

855
3,563
5,363

$ 

$ 

$ 

OTHER CORPORATE DEVELOPMENTS
Kyrgyz Republic 
As previously disclosed, Kumtor Operating Company (“KOC”), the Company’s Kyrgyz Republic operating 
subsidiary was in a dispute with the Kyrgyz Republic Social Fund (the “Social Fund”) regarding whether Social 
Fund contributions were required to be paid with respect to a high-altitude premium payable to KOC employees. 
This dispute began in 2010 and eventually led to KOC fi ling a claim in September 2011 to invalidate an assessment 
issued by the Social Fund requiring KOC to pay approximately $6.7 million in contributions owing for the 2010 
operating year. The matter was resolved in the third quarter of 2011 when KOC and the Social Fund reached an 
agreement whereby Kumtor would voluntarily pay to the Social Fund $14.1 million, covering the 2010 operating 
year ($6.7 million) and the fi rst nine months of 2011 ($7.4 million), without any penalties, fi nes and fi nancial 
sanctions and agreed to apply the Social Fund contribution to the high altitude premium in the future. Going 
forward, KOC will pay the employer’s portion of the Social Fund deduction for the high altitude premium and 
the employees will be responsible for the employee portion of such deduction. 

On October 30, 2011 the Kyrgyz Republic held presidential elections which were won by the former Prime 

Minister Almazbek Atambayev of the Social Democratic Party of Kyrgyzstan in the fi rst round. 

On December 5, 2011, the Company announced that it was experiencing an interruption in the transfer of 
diesel fuel and other supplies from the Kumtor marshalling yard to the mine site due to an illegal roadblock. 
The marshalling yard is located in the town of Balykchy in the Issyk-Kul Region of the Kyrgyz Republic and is 
approximately 270 kilometres from the Kumtor mine. The road block was voluntarily lifted on December 6, 2011 
and the transfer of diesel fuel and other supplies resumed. The interruption did not affect the Company’s 2011 
production and cost guidance, nor were the mine or milling operations affected. 

Kumtor’s collective bargaining agreement expires at the end of 2012. A related work stoppage during 2012 
could have a signifi cant impact on Kumtor achieving its forecasted production (see “Risk Factors”). On February 6, 
2012 unionized employees at Kumtor began an illegal strike following a dispute regarding the social fund deductions. 
Production at Kumtor has been suspended. On February 16, 2012 an agreement was reached with the Kumtor 
Trade Union and unionized employees returned to work. The cost of the settlement for 2012 will be approximately 
$4 million. The impact of the strike on production is being evaluated. 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   47

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mongolia 
In the fourth quarter of 2011, Centerra’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Boroo Gold LLC, which owns the Boroo 
project, resolved the previously disclosed very signifi cant claim for compensation that it received from the 
Mongolian General Department of Specialized Inspection (“SSIA”) in October 2009 following the June 2009 
inspection at the Boroo project. The claim related to certain mineral reserves, including state alluvial reserves, 
covered by the Boroo project licenses, that are recorded in the Mongolian state reserves registry, but for which 
there are no or incomplete records or reports of mining activity. Pursuant to the resolution, Boroo Gold LLC 
accrued approximately $2.6 million in the 2011 year-end results and subsequently paid the amount in January 
2012. While this claim has been resolved, other regulatory issues remain outstanding in Mongolia, including the 
issuance of a fi nal heap leach permit. The Company continues to have discussions with regulatory offi cials 
regarding the issuance of the permit. See “Risk Factors”. 

As previously disclosed, the Mongolian Parliament enacted the Law to Prohibit Mineral Exploration And Mining 

Operations At River Headwaters, Protected Zones Of Water Reservoirs And Forested Areas (the “Water and Forest 
Law”) in 2009. Under the Water and Forest Law, mineral prospecting, exploration and mining in water basins 
and forestry areas in Mongolia are prohibited, and the affected licenses are subject to revocation. The legislation 
provides a specifi c exemption for “mineral deposits of strategic importance”, which would exempt the Boroo hard 
rock deposit from the application of the legislation. Centerra’s Gatsuurt licenses and its other exploration license 
holdings in Mongolia however, are currently not so exempt. Under the Minerals Law of Mongolia, Parliament on 
its own initiative or, on the recommendation of the Government, may designate a mineral deposit as strategic. Such 
designation could result in Mongolia receiving up to a 34% interest in the Gatsuurt deposit.

In 2010, the Company received correspondence from the Minerals Resource Authority of Mongolia (“MRAM”) 

stating that certain of its mining and exploration licenses, including the Gatsuurt mining licenses, could be 
revoked under the Water and Forest Law. In 2010, the Company was also informed by the Ministry of Mineral 
Resources and Energy (“MMRE”) that since the Gatsuurt licenses were within the area designated, on a 
preliminary basis, as land where mineral mining is prohibited under the Water and Forest Law, and that the 
MMRE would communicate further with the Company on negotiations with respect to an investment agreement 
for the Gatsuurt project once the MMRE received additional clarity on the impact of the Water and Forest Law 
on the Gatsuurt project. In November 2010, the Company also received a letter from the MMRE indicating that 
operations at the Gatsuurt project cannot be commenced while the implementation of the Water and Forest Law 
is being resolved. Accordingly, further approvals and regulatory commissioning of Gatsuurt will be delayed as a 
result of the Water and Forest Law. 

In November 2010, the Mongolian cabinet announced its intention to initiate the revocation of 1,782 mineral 

licenses under the Water and Forest Law on a staged basis, beginning with the revocation of 254 alluvial gold 
mining licenses, the list of which was fi nalized by the Mongolian Parliament in 2011. The Company has three 
licenses on the list of alluvial gold mining license that may be revoked. None of these licenses are material to the 
Company. In particular, the Company’s principal Gatsuurt hardrock mining licenses are not on the list of alluvial 
licenses to be revoked. In accordance with the Water and Forest Law, the Company submitted in February 2011 
a formal request for compensation for the three licenses to be revoked, which requests were updated again in 
January 2012 as a result of the fi nalization of the list. 

The Mongolian Government announced in 2010 that it is considering taking the following actions as the next 

stages of its implementation of the Water and Forest Law:

•  preparing and submitting to the cabinet a proposal to designate as “strategic” those deposits, the 

development of which would contribute to regional social and economic development and, at the same 
time, require signifi cant amounts of compensation;

•  revoking all licenses for non-gold mining operations which utilize surface water;
•  revoking all 460 gold exploration licenses and providing compensation;
•  revoking all 931 non-gold exploration licenses and providing compensation;
•  revoking and providing compensation to all remaining affected mining licenses.
Of the Company’s 55 mineral licenses, 36 licenses (including the Gatsuurt hard rock licenses) are included in 

the 1,782 licenses referred to in the cabinet announcement as subject to staged revocation. 

48     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   48

27/03/12   8:21 AM

The Company understands that Mongolia’s cabinet expects that the Water and Forest Law will take until approxi-
mately November 2012 to fully implement. According to statements by offi cials, the Mongolian Government estimates 
that the total compensation due to mining companies for the revocation of their licenses will amount to  approximately 
US$4 billion, representing a very substantial part of the Mongolia’s annual gross domestic product for 2010. 

The Water and Forest Law has attracted opposition from Mongolia’s alluvial miners, the Mongolian National 
Mining Association and other groups. A group of parliamentarians proposed amendments to the Water and Forest Law 
in 2011 to reduce its impact on environmentally-sound mining operations. The Company understands that as drafted, 
such amendments would allow the Gatsuurt project to proceed. Such amendments were discussed by a Mongolian 
parliamentary committee in 2011 which then referred it to Parliament for further discussion. The Parliament did 
not discuss the amendment during the 2011 but such amendments may be tabled for discussion in 2012. 

Centerra is reasonably confi dent that the economic and development benefi ts resulting from its exploration and 
development activities will ultimately result in the Water and Forests Law having a limited impact on the Company’s 
Mongolian activities. There can be no assurance, however, that this will be the case. Unless the Water and Forest Law 
is repealed or amended such that the law no longer applies to the project or Gatsuurt is designated as a “mineral 
deposit of strategic importance” that is exempt from the Water and Forest Law, mineral reserves at Gatsuurt may 
have to be reclassifi ed as mineral resources or eliminated entirely and the Company may be required to write-off 
the associated investment in Gatsuurt and Boroo. As at December 31, 2011, the Company had net assets recorded 
amounting to approximately $36 million related to the investment in Gatsuurt and approximately $25 million 
remaining capitalized for the Boroo mill facility and other surface structures which are expected to be utilized for the 
processing of ore from Gatsuurt. Although the Company expects to exploit the Gatsuurt deposit, should this not be 
the case, the Company would be required to write-off these amounts. A revocation of the Company’s mineral licenses, 
including the Gatsuurt mineral license, or the reclassifi cation of mineral reserves or the write-off of assets could have 
an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition. 

The heap leach operation at Boroo remained idle in 2011 awaiting issuance of the fi nal operating permit from 
the Mongolian Government. Unless the Company is successful in obtaining the fi nal heap leach operating permit, 
it will be required to write-off the associated investment which totals $15.9 million at December 31, 2011.

In November 2010, the Mongolian Parliament passed amendments to its Minerals Law that modifi ed the 
existing royalty structure on mineral projects. Pursuant to the amended royalty structure, the royalty rate is no 
longer a fi xed percentage but is graduated and dependent upon the commodity price in U.S. dollars. In the case of 
gold, there is a basic 5% royalty fee that applies while gold is less than $900 per ounce. For any increase of $100 
to the price of gold, there is a corresponding 1% increase to the royalty fee. Accordingly, at $900 per ounce, the 
royalty fee increases to 6% which continues until the gold price reaches $1,000 per ounce at which point, the 
royalty increases to 7%, at $1,100 per ounce, the royalty increases to 8%, and at $1,200 per ounce, the royalty 
increases to 9%. The highest royalty fee rate is reached at 10% when gold is $1,300 per ounce and above. The 
graduated royalty became effective as of January 1, 2011 for all mining projects in Mongolia. On January 19, 2011, 
the Standing Committee of the State Great Hural of Mongolia issued a resolution to the Mongolian Government 
which, among other things, resolved to direct the Government to enter into negotiations to have the graduated 
royalty structure apply to business entities that have already entered into a stability agreement and/or an 
investment agreement. This would include the Company’s Boroo project which is currently operating pursuant 
to a stability agreement entered with the Mongolian Government. The Company is of the opinion that the Boroo 
stability agreement provides, among other things, legislative stabilization for its Boroo operations and accordingly 
the graduated royalty fee is not applicable to Boroo’s remaining operations. As of the date of this Annual MD&A, 
the Company is not aware of any response or activity by the Mongolian Government on this State Great Hural 
of Mongolia resolution. Despite this, the Company cannot provide any assurances that Boroo will not be made 
subject to the graduated royalty fee. If the graduated royalty fee does apply to Boroo, it may have an adverse 
impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations or fi nancial condition. Regardless of 
whether the graduated royalty fee applies to the Boroo operations, it will apply to gold produced from the 
Gatsuurt project, when developed.

The Boroo stability agreement expires in July 2013, after which time Boroo’s operations will be subject to 

prevailing tax and royalty fees.

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     49

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   49

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Corporate Matters
In April 2011, Centerra declared a special dividend of Cdn$0.30 per share and an annual dividend of Cdn$0.10 per 
share, payable on May 18, 2011 to shareholders of record on May 12, 2011. This was the Company’s fi rst special 
dividend. 

In March 2011, Centerra was served by a Turkish company, Sistem Muhenkislik Insaat Sanayi Ticaret SA 
(“Sistem”), with a notice of enforcement to seize any shares and dividends in Centerra held in the name of the 
Kyrgyz Republic, followed by a notice of garnishment in April 2011 for any debts owed by Centerra to the Kyrgyz 
Republic (the “Republic”). These notices were served by Sistem through the Sheriff in Toronto as part of the 
enforcement proceedings brought by Sistem in the Ontario Superior Court to collect approximately US$11 million 
with additional interest, owed to Sistem by the Republic in accordance with a judgment of the Ontario Superior 
Court enforcing an international arbitration award against the Republic. In these Ontario proceedings, Sistem 
alleges that the shares in Centerra owned by Kyrgyzaltyn JSC, and any dividends paid in respect of those shares, 
are in fact legally and benefi cially owned by the Republic and are therefore subject to execution to pay the 
judgment. Based on legal advice received, Centerra disputes those allegations and maintains that Kyrgyzaltyn JSC 
alone is the legal and benefi cial owner of the shares and any dividends in respect of those shares, based on the 
applicable legal principles and the binding agreements with Kyrgyzaltyn JSC. As a result and notwithstanding 
such notices of enforcement and garnishment, Centerra paid its May 18, 2011 dividend (as discussed above) in the 
total amount of approximately Cdn$31 million to Kyrgyzaltyn JSC. Sistem is continuing with its claim regarding 
the Centerra shares owned by Kyrgyzaltyn JSC. If this claim is successful in the Ontario court proceedings, 
Sistem may have a right to execute its judgment against those shares and may assert a claim against Centerra in 
respect of the payment of the dividends to Kyrgyzaltyn JSC. However, Centerra believes it has a strong defence to 
that claim based on the facts and the law. At a motion in September 2011, Kyrgyzaltyn JSC was formally added as 
a party to the proceeding.

Kyrgyzaltyn has brought a motion to be heard by the Ontario Superior Court (to be heard in April 2012) to set aside 
the Ontario judgment enforcing the arbitration award on the basis that the court did not have jurisdiction to entertain 
the application or in the alternative that there is a foreign court which is a more convenient forum to hear and decide 
the issues of legal and benefi cial ownership of the shares as between Kyrgyzaltyn and the Kyrgyz Republic.

For information on forward-looking information, see “Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Information”. 
For information regarding risk factors relevant to Centerra and its operations, please see “Risk Factors” in this 
MD&A and in the Company’s most recently fi led Annual Information Form.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES 

Centerra prepares its consolidated fi nancial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting 
Standards, as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. In doing so, management is required to 
make various estimates and judgments in determining the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, revenues and 
expenses for each year presented and in the disclosure of commitments and contingencies. Management bases 
its estimates and judgments on its own experience, guidelines established by the Canadian Institute of Mining, 
Metallurgy and Petroleum and various other factors believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. In 
reference to the Company’s signifi cant accounting policies as described in note 3 to the Consolidated Financial 
Statements management believes the following critical accounting policies refl ect its more signifi cant estimates 
and judgments used in the preparation of the consolidated fi nancial statements.

i. 

Share-based Compensation 
Share based compensation costs recognized for the share-based compensation plans are subject to the 
estimate of what the ultimate payout will be using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, Monte Carlo 
simulation model, which are based on signifi cant assumptions such as volatility, expected life, expected 
dividends, risk-free interest rate and expected forfeiture rates.

50     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 50.indd   50

Mar/31/2012   1:29 PM

 
ii.  Asset retirement obligation 

Amounts recorded for asset retirement obligations and the related accretion expense require the use of 
estimates of the future costs the Company will incur to complete the reclamation and remediation work 
required to comply with existing laws and regulations at each mine site. The Company assesses and 
revises its asset retirement obligations on an annual basis or when new material information becomes 
available. Actual costs incurred may differ from those amounts estimated. Also, future changes to 
environmental laws and regulations could increase the extent of reclamation and remediation work 
required to be performed by the Company. Increases in future costs could materially impact the amounts 
charged to operations for reclamation and remediation. The provision represents management’s best 
estimate of the present value of the future reclamation and remediation obligation. The actual future 
expenditures may differ from the amounts currently provided.

iii.  Reserves

Certain assumptions are dependent upon reserves, which represent the estimated amount of ore that 
can be economically and legally extracted from the Company’s properties. In order to estimate reserves, 
assumptions are required about a range of geological, technical and economic factors, including quantities, 
grades, production techniques, recovery rates, production costs, transportation costs, commodity demand, 
commodity prices and exchange rates. Estimating the quantity and/or grade of reserves requires the size, 
shape and depth of ore bodies to be determined by analyzing geological data such as drilling samples. This 
process may require complex and diffi cult geological judgments to interpret the data. Economic assumptions 
used to estimate reserves could change from period to period and as additional geological data is generated 
during the course of operations, estimates of reserves may change from period to period. Changes in reported 
reserves may affect the Company’s fi nancial results and fi nancial position. 

iv.  Depreciation, depletion and amortization period for property plant and equipment 

The Corporation makes estimates about the expected useful lives of property plant and equipment and the 
expected residual values of the assets based on the estimated current fair value of the assets, the Company’s 
mine plan and the cash fl ows they generate. Changes to these estimates, which can be signifi cant, could 
be caused by a variety of factors, including future production differing from current forecasts of future 
production, expansion of mineral reserves through exploration activities, differences between estimated 
and actual costs of mining and differences in gold price used in the estimation of mineral reserves.

Signifi cant judgment is involved in the determination of useful life and residual values for the computation 

of depreciation, depletion and amortization and no assurance can be given that actual useful lives and 
residual values will not differ signifi cantly from current assumptions.

v. 

Impairment of long-term assets 
An impairment test is performed by comparing the carrying amount of the asset or cash-generating unit 
to their recoverable amount, which is calculated as the higher of an asset’s or cash-generating unit’s fair 
value less costs to sell. Fair value less costs to sell is calculated based upon a discounted cash fl ow analysis, 
which requires management to make a number of signifi cant assumptions including assumptions relating 
to future operating plans, gold prices, discount rates, exchange rates and future growth rates. Please see 
note 11 for additional information.

vi.  Deferred income taxes

The Company operates in a number of tax jurisdictions and is, therefore, required to estimate its income 
taxes in each of these tax jurisdictions in preparing its fi nancial statements. In calculating the income 
taxes, consideration is given to factors such as tax rates in the different jurisdictions, non-deductible 
expenses, valuation allowances, and changes in tax law and management’s expectations of future results. 
The Company estimates deferred income taxes based on temporary differences between the income and 
losses reported in its fi nancial statements and its taxable income and losses as determined under the 
applicable tax laws. The tax effect of these temporary differences is recorded as deferred tax assets or 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   51

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     51

 
 
 
 
 
liabilities in the fi nancial statements. The calculation of income taxes requires the use of judgment and 
estimates. If these judgments and estimates prove to be inaccurate, future earnings may be materially 
impacted. 

vii.  Inventories of stockpiles ore, in-circuit and Gold doré

In determining mine operating costs recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and 
Comprehensive income, the Company’s management makes estimates of quantities of ore stacked on heap 
leach pads and in process and the recoverable gold in this material to determine the average costs of 
fi nished goods sold during the period. Changes in these estimates can result in a change in mine operating 
costs of future periods and carrying amounts of inventories.

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

As prescribed by the CICA Accounting Standards Board, the Company adopted the requirements under IFRS 1, 
First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards in its statements of account as of January 1, 2011, 
including the restatement of its opening balance sheet of January 1, 2010. As the December 31, 2011 fi nancial 
statements are the Company’s fi rst annual fi nancial statements prepared using IFRS, these fi nancial statements 
should be read in conjunction with the IFRS transition disclosures included in note 33 to the fi nancial statements. 
note 33 contains reconciliations and descriptions of the effect of the transition from Canadian Generally Accepted 
Accounting Principles (“CGAAP”) to IFRS on equity, earnings and comprehensive income, along with line-by-line 
reconciliations of the consolidated statements of fi nancial position as at December 31, 2010 and January 1, 2010, 
and the consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2010. 

The accounting policies presented in the December 31, 2011 consolidated fi nancial statements of the Company 
have been applied consistently to all periods presented and in preparing the opening IFRS statement of fi nancial 
position at January 1, 2010 for the purposes of the transition to IFRS.

Future changes in accounting policies
Recently issued but not adopted accounting guidance are as follows:

IFRS 7 Financial Instruments – Disclosures (“IFRS 7”) was amended by the IASB in October 2010 and provides 
guidance on identifying transfers of fi nancial assets and continuing involvement in transferred assets for disclosure 
purposes. The amendments introduce new disclosure requirements for transfers of fi nancial assets including 
disclosures for fi nancial assets that are not derecognized in their entirety, and for fi nancial assets that are 
derecognized in their entirety but for which continuing involvement is retained. The Company intends to adopt 
IFRS 7 in its fi nancial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2013. The Company does not 
expect IFRS 7 to have a material impact on its fi nancial statements.

The IASB has issued IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (“IFRS 9”) which proposes to replace IAS 39 Financial 
Instruments Recognition and Measurement. The replacement standard has the following signifi cant components: 
establishes two primary measurement categories for fi nancial assets — amortized cost and fair value; establishes 
criteria for classifi cation of fi nancial assets within the measurement category based on business model and cash 
fl ow characteristics; and eliminates existing held to maturity, available-for-sale and loans and receivable categories. 

This standard is effective for the Company’s annual year end beginning January 1, 2015 (as amended from 

January 1, 2013 by the IASB in December 2011). The Company will evaluate the impact of the change to its 
consolidated fi nancial statements based on the characteristics of its fi nancial instruments at the time of adoption. 

IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements (“IFRS 10”), which replaces parts of IAS 27, Consolidated and 
Separate Financial Statements (“IAS 27”) and all of SIC-12 Consolidation – Special Purpose Entities, changes the 
defi nition of control which is the determining factor in whether an entity should be consolidated. Under IFRS 10, 
an investor controls an investee when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with 
the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. The Company intends 
to adopt IFRS 10 in its fi nancial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2013. The Company 
does not expect IFRS 10 to have a material impact on its fi nancial statements.

52     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 52.indd   52

Mar/31/2012   1:30 PM

 
 
IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements (“IFRS 11”), which replaces IAS 31 Interests in Joint Ventures and SIC-13 Jointly 
Controlled Entities – Non-monetary Contributions by Venturers, requires a venturer to classify its interest in a joint 
arrangement as either a joint operation or a joint venture. For a joint operation, the joint operator will recognize 
its assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and/or its relative share thereof. For a joint venture, the joint venturer 
will account for its interest in the venture’s net assets using the equity method of accounting. The choice to 
proportionally consolidate joint ventures is prohibited. This new standard is applicable for accounting periods 
beginning January 1, 2013. The Company is assessing the impact of IFRS 11 on its results of operations and 
fi nancial position and will adopt IFRS 11 in its fi nancial statements effective from January 1, 2013.

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES AND INTERNAL CONTROL 
OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING 

As of December 31, 2011, Centerra evaluated its disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over 
fi nancial reporting, as defi ned in the rules of the Canadian Securities Administrators. These evaluations were 
carried out under the supervision of and with the participation of management, including Centerra’s Chief 
Executive Offi cer and the Chief Financial Offi cer. Based on these evaluations, the Chief Executive Offi cer and 
the Chief Financial Offi cer concluded that the design and operation of these disclosure controls and procedures 
and internal control over fi nancial reporting were effective.

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT 

Centerra believes in the principles of sustainable development. In endeavoring to achieve its strategic objectives, 
the Company strives to be a leading performer among its peers with regard to shareholder value, business ethics, 
workplace safety, environmental protection and community development. Centerra believes that its strong 
commitment to these principles, which is supported by its past practices, will further its objective of becoming 
a sought-after partner in Asia, Central Asia, the former Soviet Union and other emerging markets worldwide. 
During 2011, the Company released its fi rst Corporate Responsibility Report for its 2010 reporting year. 

The report is available on the Company’s website at www.centerragold.com.

2012 OUTLOOK

Centerra’s 2012 consolidated gold production is forecast to be between 635,000 and 685,000 ounces. The Kumtor 
mine is expected to produce between 575,000 and 625,000 ounces in 2012. Kumtor’s 2012 planned mining 
sequence results in a production profi le with a large portion of the gold production occurring in the fourth 
quarter. The high-grade material from the SB Zone is only available for mining at the end of the third quarter of 
2012 when it is exposed by cut-back 14A. On a quarterly basis, Kumtor’s 2012 gold production is forecast to have 
12% of gold production being recovered in the fi rst quarter, 20% in the second quarter, 25% in the third quarter 
and 43% in the fourth quarter. Gold production in the fi rst quarter of 2012 will also be impacted by four days of 
scheduled mill maintenance of the ball and SAG mills. The Company is also evaluating the impact of the 10-day 
strike which occurred in February 2012.

Kumtor’s collective bargaining agreement expires at the end of 2012. A related work stoppage during the year 

could have a signifi cant impact on Kumtor achieving its forecasted production (see “Risk Factors”). A work 
stoppage in the fourth quarter would have a larger negative impact on Kumtor achieving its forecasted production 
for the year. The Company’s production forecast is contingent on its ability to strip enough material from cut-back 
14A during the year to expose the high grade SB zone by the end of the third quarter. Additionally, achieving the 
2012 production is dependent on the timely delivery of new mining equipment and successfully maintaining the 
mining rates of the waste and ice in the southeast portion of the pit to gain access to the higher grade ore.

At the Boroo mine, gold production is forecast to be approximately 60,000 ounces and assumes mining of 
Pit 6. The 2012 forecast also assumes no production from the heap leach facility or the Gatsuurt project due 
to uncertainties with permitting. The Boroo mill is expected to process mostly higher grade heap leach ore 
stockpiles for the fi rst eight months of 2012, followed by processing the higher grade ore from Pit 6 from 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     53

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   53

27/03/12   8:21 AM

September 2012 to January 2013. During September to December 2012, the Boroo mill is expected to process 
a mixture of higher grade Pit 6 ore with an average grade of approximately 2.1 g/t and stockpiled heap leach 
material with grades between 0.67 – 0.76 g/t.

Receipt of the fi nal heap leach operating permit would add approximately 2,000 ounces of gold a month. 
At Gatsuurt, the project is ready to begin mining the oxide ore on receipt of the fi nal approvals and regulatory 
commissioning.

Centerra’s 2012 gold production and unit costs are forecast as follows:

Kumtor 
Boroo 
Consolidated 

2012 Production Forecast 
(ounces of gold) 

2012 Total Cash Cost (1)
($ per ounce produced)

575,000 – 625,000 
approx. 60,000 
635,000 – 685,000 

430 – 465
810
465 – 500

(1)  Total cash cost is a non-GAAP measure and includes mine operating costs such as mining, processing, regional offi ce administration, royalties and production taxes (except at 

Kumtor where revenue-based taxes are excluded), but excludes amortization, reclamation costs, fi nancing costs, capital development, community investments and exploration.

2012 EXPLORATION EXPENDITURES

Exploration expenditures of $45 million are planned for 2012, a 13% increase from the $39.6 million spent in 2011. 
The 2012 program will continue the aggressive exploration work at the Kumtor mine together with an increase in 
the exploration in the Kumtor district; planned expenditures are expected to be about $15 million. In Mongolia, 
$8 million is allocated for exploration programs and work will continue along the Onon trend in eastern Mongolia 
and to follow up on the positive results on the Altan Tsagaan Ovoo (“ATO”) project. 

In 2012, drilling programs will continue on the Kara Beldyr and Dvoinoy projects in Russia and expenditures 
for the two projects are expected to be approximately $6 million. Drilling programs will also continue in Turkey 
on the Company’s joint venture projects with expenditures expected to be approximately $6 million. Drilling of 
the Laogouxi project in China is expected to commence in the second quarter. In addition, generative programs 
will continue in Central Asia, Russia, China, and Turkey to increase the pipeline of projects that the Company is 
developing to meet the longer term growth targets of Centerra.

Subsequent to 2011 year-end Centerra decided to close its exploration offi ce in Reno, Nevada and to refocus its 

exploration efforts outside of the Great Basin in Nevada, USA to those areas in which it is having more success, 
such as in Mongolia, Turkey, Russia and Kyrgyzstan.

2012 CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

The capital expenditures for 2012 are estimated to be $389 million, including $49 million of sustaining capital and 
$340 million of growth capital.

Capital expenditures include:

Projects

(millions of dollars) 

Kumtor mine 
Mongolia 
Corporate 
Consolidated Total 

2012 Growth Capital 

2012 Sustaining Capital

$  328 
12 
$ 
– 
$  340 

$  45
3
$ 
1
$ 
$  49

Kumtor
At Kumtor, 2012 total capital expenditures are forecast to be $373 million including $45 million of sustaining 
capital. The largest sustaining capital spending will be the major overhaul maintenance of the heavy duty mine 
equipment ($21 million), expenditures for dewatering and infrastructure ($8 million), effl uent treatment plant 
relocation ($5 million), tailings dam construction works ($4 million) and for equipment replacement and other 
items ($7 million). 

54     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   54

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
Growth capital investment at Kumtor for 2012 is forecast at $328 million, which includes pre-strip costs 
related to the development of the open pit ($128 million), purchase of new mining equipment including 25 CAT 
789 haul trucks, 4 drills and 4 Hitachi 3600 shovels ($126 million) and other items ($11 million). Growth capital 
for 2012 has increased compared to the most recent Kumtor technical report as purchases of mine expansion 
equipment planned for 2013 ($61 million) have been brought forward to 2012. This was done to ensure that all of 
the new CAT 789 haul trucks were of the same model “C” series, given that CAT is discontinuing the C series in 
late 2012. Additionally, the added capacity will help to ensure the required mine production rate is maintained. 
Also included in the 2012 growth capital investment is $63 million which is for the underground project to continue 
to develop the SB and Stockwork Zones, as well as for delineation drilling and capital purchases in 2012. 

The underground development project at Kumtor is on track to achieve breakthrough of Decline 1 with Decline 2 

in the third quarter of 2012 and is expected to intersect fi rst ore in the SB Zone in the second quarter of 2013.

Mongolia (Boroo & Gatsuurt)
At Boroo, sustaining capital expenditures in 2012 are expected to be about $3 million primarily for component 
change-outs and mill maintenance. Growth capital is forecast at $12 million, which includes capitalized pre-
stripping costs of Pit 6 at Boroo ($11 million).

No capital for the development of the deeper sulphide ores at Gatsuurt has been forecast and will only 
be invested following successful regulatory commissioning of the Gatsuurt project. The engineering and 
construction of the bio-oxidation facility to be located at the Boroo mill, which is needed to treat Gatsuurt 
sulphide ores, will be restarted only after the approval to begin mining at Gatsuurt has been received from 
the Government of Mongolia. 

2012 DEPRECIATION, DEPLETION AND AMORTIZATION

Depreciation, depletion and amortization expenses included in costs of sales expense for 2012 are forecast to be 
approximately $133 million. Changes in DD&A are a result of increases or decreases to certain of the Company’s 
capital assets. Refer to the Company’s 2011 Audited Financial Statements note 9 for further details on the related 
capital assets.

(In millions) 

Kumtor
Mine equipment 
Less DD&A capitalized to pre-stripping costs (1) 
Pre-stripping costs amortized 
Mine development and other mining assets 
Mill assets 
Administration assets and other 
Inventory movement (non-cash) 
Subtotal for Kumtor 

Boroo
Mine equipment 
Less DD&A capitalized to pre-stripping costs 
Pre-stripping costs amortized 
Mine development and other mining assets 
Mill assets 
Administration assets and other 
Inventory movement (non-cash) 
Subtotal for Boroo 
Consolidated Total 

2012 
DD&A 
Forecast 

$  80 
  (34) 
54 
8 
9 
10 
(14) 
113 

$ 

$ 

4 
(2) 
12 
1 
1 
2 
2 
$  20 
$  133 

2011 
DD&A 
Actual 

$  69 
(14) 
32 
5 
8 
10 
(22) 
$  88 

$ 

2 
– 
– 
1 
1 
3 
3 
$ 
10 
$  98 

2010
DD&A
Actual

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

36
(4)
–
7
9
10
1
59

3
–
4
1
2
9
(2)
16
76

(1)  Use of the Company’s mining fl eet for pre-stripping activities results in a portion of the depreciation related to the mine fl eet to be allocated to capitalized pre-strip costs. 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     55

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   55

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Kumtor
At Kumtor, the forecast for 2012 DD&A expensed as part of costs of sales is $113 million. The increase over the 
three years refl ects a signifi cant expansion of the mining fl eet in order to achieve higher throughput levels of 
materials moved and the increasing stripping of waste required by the deposit. This is the largest component of 
deprecation expense in 2012 totalling $80 million. The mine equipment assets are depreciated on a straight-line 
basis over their estimated useful lives. The depreciation expense related to mine equipment engaged in a 
stripping campaign is capitalized as pre-stripping costs.

During 2012 Kumtor will be mining the remaining ore from cut-back 12B and continuing stripping campaigns 
on cut-backs 14A and 14B. The costs to remove waste within the various cut-backs include mining operating costs 
such as labour, diesel and maintenance costs, as well as the depreciation expense for the mine equipment used in 
the stripping campaign. Labour and consumables costs (such as diesel costs) have been steadily increasing over 
the last several years due to both increases in price and demand with the expanding operation at Kumtor. These 
costs are capitalized as pre-stripping costs and amortized over the ounces contained in the ore body exposed by 
the stripping campaign. 

Based on the sequencing of production at Kumtor for 2012, ore from cut-backs 12B and 14A will be mined 
resulting in the amortization through cost of sales of $54 million in capitalized pre-stripping costs. As Kumtor 
mines the ore from cut-back 12B, it will amortize the remaining unamortized capitalized pre-stripping costs of 
$13 million related to that cut-back. The forecast assumes that the stripping campaign for cut-back 14A is completed 
by the fourth quarter of 2012 providing access to the ore in the fourth quarter. The ore in cut-back 14A will be 
partially mined in the fourth quarter and the amortization expense for 2012 for the capitalized pre-stripping 
costs related to cut-back 14A is forecast at $41 million. The stripping campaign for cut-back 14B was started in 
December 2011 and is expected to continue throughout 2012 with the goal of reaching ore in 2013. Therefore, 
no amortization expense is expected to be recorded on cut-back 14B in 2012.

Boroo
At Boroo, the forecast for 2012 DD&A expensed as part of costs of sales is $20 million, compared to $10 million 
in 2011 and $17 million in 2010. The increase in 2012 refl ects the resumption of mining in Pit 6. The largest 
component of deprecation expense is related to amortization of capitalized pre-stripping costs related to Pit 6. 
In January 2012 Boroo re-commenced mining activities in Pit 6 requiring the stripping of waste before ore is 
exposed. The costs of removing waste for this stripping campaign before the ore is mined will be capitalized as 
pre-stripping costs and amortized over the ounces contained in the Pit 6 ore. The forecast assumes that the 
stripping campaign for Pit 6 is completed early in the third quarter of 2012 and the processing of Pit 6 ore through 
the mill completed in January 2013. The amortization expense for 2012 for the capitalized pre-stripping costs 
related to Pit 6 production is forecast at $12 million.

2012 CORPORATE ADMINISTRATION AND SUSTAINABLE 
COMMUNITY INVESTMENT

Corporate and administration expenses for 2012 are forecast at approximately $41 million. 

Total sustainable community investments for 2012 are forecast at $26 million, in accordance with Centerra’s 

Community Investment policy. Note that these costs are not included in total cash cost per ounce produced 
(total cash cost per ounce produced is a non-GAAP measure and is discussed under “Non-GAAP Measures”). 

Centerra has a history of investing in various community sustainable development and strategic investment 

projects in the countries and communities where it operates. For example in 2010, BGC invested $6.4 million 
towards the construction of a new maternity hospital in Ulaanbaatar and in 2011 KGC contributed $10 million 
for the construction and repair of 27 schools throughout the Kyrgyz Republic. The Company intends to include 
sustainable community investment expenditures as part of its regular guidance.

56     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   56

27/03/12   8:21 AM

TAXES

Pursuant to the Restated Investment Agreement, Kumtor’s operations are not subject to corporate income taxes. 
The agreement replaced the prior tax regime applicable to the Kumtor project with a simplifi ed regime effective 
January 1, 2008. This simplifi ed regime, which assesses tax at 13% on gross revenue (plus 1% for the Issyk-Kul 
Oblast Development Fund effective January 2009), was approved and enacted by the Parliament of the Kyrgyz 
Republic in 2009.

The corporate income tax rate for Centerra’s Mongolian subsidiary, BGC is 25% for taxable income over 3 billion 
Mongolian tugriks (approximately $2.2 million at the 2011 year-end foreign exchange rate) with a tax rate of 10% 
for taxable income up to that amount.

REGULATORY MATTERS

In January 2012, Centerra’s wholly owned subsidiary, BGC, which owns the Boroo project, resolved the previously 
disclosed very signifi cant claim for compensation that it received from the Mongolian General Department of 
Specialized Inspection (“SSIA”) in October 2009 following the June 2009 inspection at the Boroo project. The 
claim related to certain mineral reserves, including state alluvial reserves, covered by the Boroo project licenses, 
that are recorded in the Mongolian state reserves registry, but for which there are no or incomplete records or 
reports of mining activity. Pursuant to the resolution, Boroo Gold LLC has accrued approximately $2.6 million in 
its 2011 year-end statements. While this claim has been resolved, other regulatory issues remain outstanding in 
Mongolia, including the issuance of a fi nal heap leach permit.

SENSITIVITIES

Centerra’s revenues, earnings and cash fl ows for 2012 are sensitive to changes in certain variables and the Company 
has estimated their impact on revenues, net earnings and cash from operations.

Impact on

Costs 

Revenues 

Cash fl ow 

Earnings before
income tax

5.1 
7.1 
2.6 
1.2 
3.8 

33.5 
– 
– 
– 
– 

28.4 
7.1 
2.6 
1.2 
3.8 

28.4
7.1
2.6
1.2
3.8

($ millions) 

Gold Price 
Diesel Fuel (1) 
Kyrgyz som 
Mongolian tugrik 
Canadian dollar 

Change 

$50/oz 
10% 
1 som 
25 tugrik 
10 cents 

(1)  a 10% change in diesel fuel price equals $11/oz produced

MAJOR ASSUMPTIONS

The following material assumptions have been used to forecast production, costs and future capital expenditures;

•  a gold price of $1,700 per ounce,
•  exchange rates:

x  $1USD:$1.01 CAD
x  $1USD:46.00 Kyrgyz Som
x  $1USD:1,235 Mongolian Tugrik
x  $1USD:0.74 Euro

•  diesel fuel price assumption:
x  $0.71/litre at Kumtor
x  $1.13/litre at Boroo

The assumed diesel price of $0.71/litre at Kumtor assumes that no Russian export duty will be paid on the fuel 

exports from Russia to the Kyrgyz Republic.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   57

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     57

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diesel fuel is sourced from separate Russian suppliers for both sites and only loosely correlates with world oil 

prices. Political and supply pressures and policies may cause the average price of fuel from Russia to be higher. 
The diesel fuel price assumptions were made when the price of oil was approximately $99 per barrel.

Other important assumptions include the following:
•  Any recurrence of political and civil unrest in the Kyrgyz Republic will not impact operations, including 

movement of people, supplies and gold shipments to and from the Kumtor mine,

•  grades and recoveries at Kumtor will remain consistent with the life-of-mine plan to achieve the forecast 

gold production, 

•  the dewatering program at Kumtor continues to produce the expected results and the water management 

system works as planned, 

•  the remedial plan to deal with the Kumtor waste and ice movement continues to be successful, see “Kumtor 
Mine – Geotechnical Issues Affecting the Kumtor Open Pit” in the Company’s most recently fi led annual 
information form, 

•  no unplanned delays in or interruption of scheduled production from our mines, including due to civil 
unrest, natural phenomena, labour, regulatory or political disputes, equipment breakdown or other 
developmental and operational risks, 

•  any labour dispute that occurs at Kumtor does not impact the Company’s mine plan regarding the stripping 

of cut-back 14A and subsequent access to the SB zone in the third quarter,

•  infl ation rates in countries where Centerra operates remain stable,
•  no further suspension of Boroo’s operating licenses, and 
•  all necessary permits, licenses and approvals are received in a timely manner. 
Production and cost forecasts and capital estimates are forward-looking information and are based on key 
assumptions and subject to material risk factors. If any event arising from these risks occurs, the Company’s 
business, prospects, fi nancial condition, results of operations or cash fl ows could be adversely affected. Additional 
risks and uncertainties not currently known to the Company, or that are currently deemed immaterial, may also 
materially and adversely affect the Company’s business operations, prospects, fi nancial condition, and results of 
operations or cash fl ows. See the sections entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recently fi led annual 
information form, available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com and see also the discussion below under the heading 
“Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Information”.

QUALIFIED PERSON & QA/QC

The reserves and resources estimates and other scientifi c and technical information in this news release were 
prepared in accordance with the standards of the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum and 
National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”) and were reviewed, verifi ed 
and compiled by Centerra’s geological and mining staff under the supervision of Ian Atkinson, Certifi ed Professional 
Geologist, Centerra’s Senior Vice-President, Global Exploration, who is the qualifi ed person for the purpose of NI 43-101. 
Sample preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality control protocols used 
during the exploration drilling programs are done consistent with industry standards and independent certifi ed 
assay labs are used with the exception of the Kumtor project as described in its technical report.

The Kumtor deposit is described in Centerra’s most recently fi led AIF and a technical report dated March 22, 

2011 prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. The technical report has been fi led on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 
The technical report describes the exploration history, geology and style of gold mineralization at the Kumtor 
deposit. Sample preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality control 
protocols used during the drilling programs at the Kumtor site are described in the technical report.

The Boroo deposit is described in Centerra’s most recently fi led AIF and a technical report dated December 17, 

2009 prepared in accordance with NI 43-101, which is available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The technical 
report describes the exploration history, geology and style of gold mineralization at the Boroo deposit. Sample 
preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality control protocols used during 
the drilling programs at the Boroo site are the same as, or similar to, those described in the technical report.

58     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   58

27/03/12   8:21 AM

The Gatsuurt deposit is described in the Company’s most recently fi led AIF and in a technical report dated 
May 9, 2006 prepared in accordance with NI 43-101. The technical report has been fi led on SEDAR at www.sedar.
com. The technical report describes the exploration history, geology and style of gold mineralization at the 
Gatsuurt deposit. Sample preparation, analytical techniques, laboratories used and quality assurance-quality 
control protocols used during the drilling programs at the Gatsuurt project are the same as, or similar to, those 
described in the technical report or AIF. 

RISK FACTORS

Below are some risk factors that Centerra believes can have a material effect on the profi tability, future cash fl ow, 
earnings, results of operations, stated reserves and fi nancial condition of the Company. If any event arising from 
these risks occurs, the Company’s business, prospects, fi nancial condition, results of operations or cash fl ows 
could be adversely affected, the trading price of Centerra’s common shares could decline and all or part of any 
investment may be lost. Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to the Company, or that are 
currently deemed immaterial, may also materially and adversely affect the Company’s business operations, 
prospects, fi nancial condition, results of operations or cash fl ows. 

Centerra’s business is sensitive to the volatility of gold prices
Centerra’s revenue is largely dependent on the world market price of gold. Gold prices are subject to volatile 
movements over time and are affected by numerous factors beyond Centerra’s control. These factors include: 
global supply and demand; central bank lending, sales and purchases; expectations for the future rate of infl ation; 
the level of interest rates; the strength of, and confi dence in, the U.S. dollar; market speculative activities; and 
global or regional political and economic events, including the performance of Asia’s economies.

If the market price of gold falls and remains below production costs of any of Centerra’s mining operations for 

a sustained period, losses would be sustained, and, under certain circumstances, there may be a curtailment or 
suspension of some or all of Centerra’s mining and exploration activities. Centerra would also have to assess the 
economic impact of any sustained lower gold prices on recoverability and, therefore, the cutoff grade and level of 
Centerra’s gold mineral reserves and resources. These factors could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future 
cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations, stated mineral reserves and fi nancial condition.

Centerra’s principal operations are located in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia and 
are subject to political risk
All of Centerra’s current gold production and mineral reserves are derived from assets located in the Kyrgyz 
Republic and Mongolia, countries that have experienced political diffi culties in recent years including, in the 
Kyrgyz Republic, civil unrest in April 2010 that resulted in the ouster of the incumbent President. Accordingly, 
there continues to be a risk of future political instability.

Centerra’s mining operations and gold exploration activities are affected in varying degrees by political 
stability and government regulations relating to foreign investment, social unrest, corporate activity and the 
mining business in each of these countries. Operations may also be affected in varying degrees by terrorism, 
military confl ict or repression, crime, extreme fl uctuations in currency rates and high infl ation in Central Asia. 
The relevant governments have entered into contracts with Centerra or granted permits, licenses or concessions 
that enable it to conduct operations or exploration and development activities. Notwithstanding these arrangements, 
Centerra’s ability to conduct operations or exploration and development activities is subject to obtaining and/or 
renewing permits or concessions (including a permanent license with respect to the Boroo heap leach operations, 
a certifi cate of temporary land use in relation to its concession area around the Kumtor project, and permits and 
concessions to begin mining activities at Gatsuurt), changes in laws or government regulations or shifts in 
political attitudes beyond Centerra’s control. 

There can be no assurance that industries deemed of national or strategic importance like mineral production 

will not be nationalized. Government policy may change to discourage foreign investment, renationalization of 
mining industries may occur or other government limitations, restrictions or requirements not currently foreseen 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     59

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   59

27/03/12   8:21 AM

may be implemented. There can be no assurance that Centerra’s assets will not be subject to nationalization, 
requisition or confi scation, whether legitimate or not, by any authority or body. While there are often provisions 
for compensation and reimbursement of losses to investors under such circumstances, there is no assurance that 
such provisions would effectively restore the value of Centerra’s original investment. Similarly, Centerra’s 
operations may be affected in varying degrees by government regulations with respect to restrictions on 
production, price controls, export controls, income taxes, expropriation of property, environmental legislation, 
labour legislation, mine safety, and annual fees to maintain mineral properties in good standing. There can be 
no assurance that the laws in these countries protecting foreign investments will not be amended or abolished 
or that these existing laws will be enforced or interpreted to provide adequate protection against any or all of 
the risks described above. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that the agreements Centerra has with the 
governments of these countries will prove to be enforceable or provide adequate protection against any or all 
of the risks described above.

Centerra has made an assessment of the political risk associated with each of its foreign investments and 

currently has political risk insurance covering its investments in the Kyrgyz Republic which is intended to mitigate 
a portion of any losses. The Company does not currently have political risk insurance covering its investments in 
Mongolia. From time to time, Centerra assesses the costs and benefi ts of maintaining such insurance and may not 
continue to purchase the coverage. Furthermore, there can be no assurance that the insurance would continue to 
be available at any time or that particular losses Centerra may suffer with respect to its foreign investments will 
be covered by the insurance. These losses could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, 
results of operations and fi nancial condition if not adequately covered by insurance.

Changes in, or more aggressive enforcement of, laws, regulations and 
government practices could adversely impact Centerra’s business
Mining operations and exploration activities are subject to extensive laws and regulations, both in the countries 
where mining operations and exploration activities are conducted and in the mining company’s home jurisdiction. 
These relate to production, development, exploration, exports, imports, taxes and royalties, labour standards, 
occupational health, waste disposal, protection and remediation of the environment, mine decommissioning and 
reclamation, mine safety, toxic substances, transportation safety and emergency response, social responsibilities 
and sustainability, and other matters.

Compliance with these laws and regulations increases the costs of exploring, drilling, developing, constructing, 

operating and closing mines and other facilities. It is possible that the costs, delays and other effects associated 
with these laws and regulations may impact Centerra’s decision as to whether to continue to operate existing 
mines, ore refi ning and other facilities or whether to proceed with exploration or development of properties. 
Since legal requirements change frequently, are subject to interpretation and may be enforced to varying degrees 
in practice, Centerra is unable to predict the ultimate cost of compliance with these requirements or their effect 
on operations.

If the laws and regulations relating to the Company’s operations were to change, or the enforcement of such 
laws and regulations were to become more rigorous, the Company could be required to incur signifi cant capital 
and operating expenditures to comply, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s fi nancial 
position. 

The Minerals Law of Mongolia provides the government of Mongolia with the right to take 
up to a 50% interest in the exploitation of a minerals deposit of strategic importance
In 2006, the Mongolian Parliament passed the Minerals Law that, among other things, empowers Parliament to 
designate mineral deposits that have a potential impact on national security, economic and social development 
or deposits that have a potential of producing above 5% of the country’s GDP as deposits of strategic importance. 
The state may take up to a 50% interest in the exploitation of a minerals deposit of strategic importance where 
state funded exploration was used to determine proven mineral reserves and up to a 34% interest in an investment 
to be made by a license holder in a mineral deposit of strategic importance where proven reserves were determined 
through funding sources other than the state budget. 

60     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   60

27/03/12   8:21 AM

The designation of any of the Company’s mineral deposits in Mongolia as deposits of strategic importance 
under the Minerals Law could have a signifi cant material adverse effect on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, 
results of operations, stated reserves and fi nancial conditions. 

The November 2010 Amendments to the 2006 Mongolian Minerals Law may result in a signifi cant 
increase to the royalty payments payable in connection the Company’s Mongolian operations
In November 2010, the Mongolian Parliament also passed amendments to the Minerals Law of Mongolia that 
modifi ed the existing royalty structure on mineral projects. Pursuant to the amended royalty structure, the royalty 
rate is no longer a fi xed percentage but is graduated and dependent upon the commodity price in U.S. dollars. 
In the case of gold, there is a basic 5% royalty fee that applies while gold is less than $900 per ounce. For any 
increase of $100 to the price of gold, there is a corresponding 1% increase to the royalty fee. Accordingly, at 
$900 per ounce, the royalty fee increases to 6%, at $1,000 per ounce, the royalty increases to 7%, at $1,100 per 
ounce, the royalty increases to 8%, and at $1,200, the royalty increases to 9%. The highest royalty fee rate is 10% 
when the price of gold is $1,300 per ounce and above. The graduated royalty became effective as of January 1, 
2011 for all mining projects in Mongolia. On January 19, 2011, the Standing Committee of the State Great Hural 
of Mongolia issued a Direction to the Government which, among other things, resolved to direct the Mongolian 
Government to enter into negotiations to have the graduated royalty structure apply to business entities that have 
already entered into a stability agreement and/or an investment agreement. This would include the Company’s 
Boroo project which is currently operating pursuant to a stability agreement entered with the Mongolian 
government. The Company is of the opinion that the Boroo stability agreement provides, among other things, 
legislative stabilization for its Boroo operations and accordingly the graduated royalty fee is not applicable to 
Boroo’s remaining operations. 

The Company is of the opinion that the Boroo Stability Agreement (which remains in effect until July 2013) 
affords Boroo protection against the new laws described above, but Centerra’s Gatsuurt project does not yet have 
any such benefi ts. Centerra has been in discussions with the Government of Mongolia to obtain an investment 
agreement for the development and mining of the Gatsuurt project which would stabilize the tax regime applicable 
to Gatsuurt, and including whether such new mineral laws will apply to Gatsuurt. In April 2010, the MMRE 
indicated to Centerra that further discussions and negotiations with respect to any investment agreement would 
be postponed until the MMRE received clarifi cation on the application of the Water and Forest Law on the 
Gatsuurt project. Even with the Water and Forest Law matter being resolved, there can be no assurance that any 
negotiations will be successful. In addition, Centerra holds other exploration and mining licenses in Mongolia 
which are not subject to the Boroo Stability Agreement and which may not be subject to any investment 
agreement to be entered into for Gatsuurt, and therefore these exploration and mining licenses may become 
subject to such new Mongolian mining laws.

The imposition of the new graduated royalty regime on any of the Company’s operations in Mongolia could 
have a signifi cant material adverse effect on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations, stated 
mineral reserves and fi nancial conditions. 

The Water and Forest Law could result in the revocation of the 
Company’s mineral licenses in Mongolia
In July 2009, the Mongolian Parliament passed the Water and Forest Law, which would have the effect of 
revoking any issued licenses covering such areas. The legislation provides a specifi c exemption for “mineral 
deposits of strategic importance”, and accordingly, the Company expects that the main Boroo mining licenses will 
not be subject to the Water and Forest Law. The Company’s Gatsuurt licenses and its other exploration license 
holdings in Mongolia are currently not so exempt. For a further discussion on the regulatory action described 
above see “Other Corporate Developments – Mongolia”.

The revocation of the Company’s mining or exploration licenses in Mongolia under the Water and Forest could 

have a signifi cant material adverse effect on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations, stated 
mineral reserves and fi nancial conditions. 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   61

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     61

The Company’s operations at the Boroo project have been suspended in the past, 
and continue to face scrutiny from Mongolian regulatory authorities
On June 12, 2009, the main operating licenses at the Company’s Boroo project were suspended by the MRAM 
following extensive inspections of the Boroo mine operation conducted by the SSIA. In its report, the SSIA 
expressed its view that a number of defi ciencies existed at the Boroo project. After discussions by Centerra and 
its subsidiaries with both the MRAM and the SSIA, the suspension of the operating licenses was lifted on July 27, 
2009. Despite the lifting of the suspension, several issues arising from the inspections continue to be discussed 
by Centerra and the Mongolian regulatory authorities.

In particular, on October 23, 2009, the Company received a very signifi cant claim from the SSIA in respect of 
certain mineral reserves, including state alluvial reserves covered by the Boroo project licenses, that are recorded 
in the Mongolian state reserves registry but for which there are no or incomplete records or reports of mining 
activity. In the fourth quarter of 2011, Centerra’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Boroo Gold LLC, which owns the 
Boroo project, resolved this claim and accrued approximately $2.6 million. This claim was paid in full in 
January 2012. 

The SSIA inspections in 2009 raised a concern about the production and sale of gold from the Boroo heap 
leach facility. The heap leach facility was operated under a temporary permit from June 2008 until the expiry of 
the temporary permit in April, 2009 and paid all relevant royalties and taxes with respect to gold produced from 
the heap leach facility during that period. BGC believes that it had all necessary permits to carry out its heap 
leach activities and that any regulatory concerns are unfounded. While BGC is continuing its effort to obtain a 
fi nal permit for the operation of its heap leach facility at the Boroo project, there can be no assurance that a fi nal 
permit will be obtained. The failure to obtain a fi nal permit for the Boroo project heap leach facility could have a 
material adverse impact on Centerra.

On November 2, 2009, Centerra received a letter from the Mongolian Ministry of Finance reiterating some 
of the issues raised by the SSIA and indicating that the Boroo Stability Agreement would be terminated if such 
issues were not resolved within a period of 120 days from the date of the letter. The deadline has since passed 
and the Company continues to be in discussions with the Ministry of Finance regarding such concerns.

While the Company believes that the issues raised by the Ministry of Finance will be resolved through 

negotiations with the authorities without a material impact on the Company, there can be no assurance that this 
will be the case. The Company’s inability to resolve these issues through negotiation could have a signifi cant 
material adverse effect on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations, stated mineral reserves 
and fi nancial conditions. 

If the environmental laws and regulations relating to the Company’s operations were to 
change, or the enforcement of such laws and regulations were to become more rigorous, 
the Company could be required to incur signifi cant capital and operating expenditures 
The Company is subject to environmental regulation in connection with the Company’s exploration, development 
and operation activities in each of the jurisdictions in which it operates. The fi nancial and operational effects 
of the Company’s environmental protection requirements relate primarily to the Company’s operations in the 
Kyrgyz Republic, where it operates the Kumtor project, and in Mongolia, where it operates the Boroo project, and 
has a 100% interest in the both the Gatsuurt, ATO and Ulaan Bulag exploration and development properties. 

If the environmental laws and regulations relating to the Company’s operations, including its operations in the 
Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia, were to change, or the enforcement of such laws and regulations were to become 
more rigorous, the Company could be required to incur signifi cant capital and operating expenditures to comply, 
which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s fi nancial position. 

Centerra’s mineral reserves may not be replaced
The Kumtor and Boroo projects are currently Centerra’s only sources of gold production. Based on the current 
life-of-mine plan, Kumtor will be depleted by 2021. At Boroo, mining has ceased as of the end of November 2010, 
and the mill will continue to operate for at least a further two years processing low-grade stockpiled ore, some of 

62     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   62

27/03/12   8:21 AM

which is low-grade and was originally intended for the heap leach. Additionally, if the bio-oxidation facility 
is not constructed, the Boroo transitional ores would be depleted by 2013. If Centerra’s existing mineral reserves 
(including mineral reserves at the Gatsuurt deposit in Mongolia) are not replaced either by the development or 
discovery of additional reserves and/or extension of the life-of-mine at Kumtor or Boroo or through the acquisition 
or development of an additional producing mine, this could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash 
fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition, including as a result of requirements to expend 
funds for reclamation and decommissioning. Although Centerra is actively engaged in programs to increase 
mineral reserves and expand the life-of-mine at Kumtor, as well as to develop and mine the Gatsuurt deposit 
in Mongolia, there can be no assurance that these programs will be successful.

Centerra may experience further ground movements at the Kumtor project
On July 8, 2002, a highwall ground movement at the Kumtor project resulted in the death of one of Centerra’s 
employees and the temporary suspension of mining operations. The movement led to a considerable shortfall 
in 2002 gold production because the high-grade Stockwork Zone was rendered temporarily inaccessible. 
Consequently, Centerra milled lower grade ore and achieved lower recovery rates. In February 2004, movement 
was also detected in the southeast wall of the open pit and a crack was discovered at the crest of the wall. In 
February 2006, there was further movement detected in the southeast wall of the open pit. In July 2006, there 
was ground movement in the northeast wall of the open pit that required the adoption of a new mining sequence 
at Kumtor and resulted in lower than anticipated gold production in 2006. In the fi rst quarter of 2007, minor 
slope movement was detected in the waste dump above the SB Zone highwall in the Central pit. Deformation 
cracks in the waste rock above the till focused attention on wall instability seated in the glacial till between the 
waste dumps and the underlying bedrock. Drilling has indicated that further push backs of the Central pit will 
encounter unfrozen, water saturated till. The outer face of the till is frozen and hence the water behind the slope 
face is pressurized. The depressurization and dewatering programs which were established at the mine in 2008 
and continuously operated since, have reduced the hydrological content of the waste dump and the till. 

Although extensive efforts are employed by Centerra to prevent further ground movement, there is no 
guarantee against such movements. A future ground movement could result in a signifi cant interruption of 
operations. Centerra may also experience a loss of mineral reserves or a material increase in costs, if it is 
necessary to redesign the open pit as a result of a ground movement. The consequences of a ground movement 
will depend upon the magnitude, location and timing of any such movement. If mining operations are interrupted 
to a signifi cant magnitude or the mine experiences a signifi cant loss of mineral reserves or materially higher costs 
of operation, this would have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations 
and fi nancial condition.

Centerra will experience further waste and ice movement at the Kumtor project
During 2011, continued movement of waste and ice from the South East Ice Wall into the Kumtor Central pit 
above the SB Zone section required the mining of ice and waste which reduced the production of ore. While 
management has developed a plan to manage this movement (which plans have seen positive results in 2011), 
there is no guarantee that these efforts will avert further negative impact on the Company’s expected production, 
costs and earnings. 

Although extensive efforts are being employed by Centerra to manage further waste and ice movements, there 

is no guarantee that such efforts will be successful or that further waste and ice movements will not adversely 
affect operations at the Kumtor project. Future movements could result in a signifi cant interruption of operations 
or impede access to ore deposits. Centerra may also experience a loss of mineral reserves or a material increase 
in costs if it is necessary to redesign the open pit as a result of waste and ice movements. The consequences of 
further waste and ice movement into the Kumtor Central pit will depend upon the extent, location and timing 
of any such movement. If mining operations are interrupted to a signifi cant magnitude or the mine experiences 
a signifi cant loss of mineral reserves or materially higher costs of operation, this would have an adverse impact 
on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   63

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     63

Current and future litigation may impact the revenue and profi ts of the Company
The Company may, currently or in the future, be subject to claims (including the proceeding commenced by 
Sistem, class action claims and claims from government regulatory bodies) based on allegations of negligence, 
breach of statutory duty, public nuisance or private nuisance or otherwise in connection with its operations or 
investigations relating thereto. While the Company is presently unable to quantify its potential liability under any 
of the above heads of damage, such liability may be material to the Company and may materially adversely affect 
its ability to continue operations.

In the proceeding commenced by Sistem, for example, Sistem is seeking to collect approximately US$11.1 million 

(plus interest) owed to it by the Kyrgyz Republic, by looking to enforce against the shares of Centerra held by 
Kyrgyzaltyn. See “Other Corporate Developments – Corporate Matters”. 

Centerra’s mineral reserve and resource estimates may be imprecise
Mineral reserve and resource fi gures are estimates and no assurances can be given that the indicated levels of gold 
will be produced or that Centerra will receive the price assumed in determining its mineral reserves. These estimates 
are expressions of judgment based on knowledge, mining experience, analysis of drilling results and industry 
practices. Valid estimates made at a given time may signifi cantly change when new information becomes available. 
While Centerra believes that the mineral reserve and resource estimates included are well established and refl ect 
management’s best estimates, by their nature mineral reserve and resource estimates are imprecise and depend, to 
a certain extent, upon analysis of drilling results and statistical inferences that may ultimately prove unreliable.
Furthermore, fl uctuations in the market price of gold, as well as increased capital or production costs or 

reduced recovery rates may render ore reserves uneconomic and may ultimately result in a reduction of reserves. 
The extent to which mineral resources may ultimately be reclassifi ed as proven or probable mineral reserves is 
dependent upon the demonstration of their profi table recovery. The evaluation of mineral reserves or resources 
is always infl uenced by economic and technological factors, which may change over time.

No assurances can be given that any mineral resource estimate will ultimately be reclassifi ed as proven or 

probable mineral reserves.

If Centerra’s mineral reserve or resource fi gures are inaccurate or are reduced in the future, this could have an 

adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra’s production and cost estimates may be inaccurate
Centerra prepares estimates of future production and future production costs for particular operations. No 
assurance can be given that production and cost estimates will be achieved. These production and cost estimates 
are based on, among other things, the following factors: the accuracy of mineral reserve estimates; the accuracy 
of assumptions regarding ground conditions and physical characteristics of ores, such as hardness and presence 
or absence of particular metallurgical characteristics; equipment and mechanical availability; labour availability; 
access to the mine; facilities and infrastructure; suffi cient materials and supplies on hand; and the accuracy of 
estimated rates and costs of mining and processing, including the cost of human and physical resources required 
to carry out Centerra’s activities. Failure to achieve production or cost estimates, or increases in costs, could have 
an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra’s estimates on production and costs are, where applicable, based on historical costs and productivity 
experience. Despite this, actual production and costs may vary from estimates for a variety of reasons, including 
actual ore mined varying from estimates of grade, tonnage, dilution and metallurgical and other characteristics; 
short-term operating factors relating to the ore reserves, such as the need for sequential development of 
orebodies and the processing of new or different ore grades; risks and hazards associated with mining; natural 
phenomena, such as inclement weather conditions, fl oods, earthquakes, pit wall failures and cave-ins; and 
unexpected labour shortages or strikes. Costs of production may also be affected by a variety of factors, including: 
changing waste-to-ore ratios, ore grade metallurgy, labour costs, costs of supplies and services (such as, for 
example, fuel and power), general infl ationary pressures and currency exchange rates. Failure to achieve 
production estimates could have an adverse impact on the Company’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results 
of operations and fi nancial condition.

64     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   64

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Centerra’s future exploration and development activities may not be successful
Exploration for and development of gold properties involve signifi cant fi nancial risks and may be subject to 
political risks that even a combination of careful evaluation, experience and knowledge may not eliminate. While 
the discovery of an orebody may result in substantial rewards, few properties that are explored are ultimately 
developed into producing mines. Major expenses may be required to establish mineral reserves by drilling, 
constructing mining and processing facilities at a site, connecting to a reliable infrastructure, developing 
metallurgical processes and extracting gold from ore. Centerra cannot ensure that its current exploration and 
development programs will result in profi table commercial mining operations or replacement of current 
production at existing mining operations with new mineral reserves. Also, substantial expenses may be incurred 
on exploration projects that are subsequently abandoned due to poor exploration results or the inability to defi ne 
mineral reserves that can be mined economically.

Centerra’s ability to sustain or increase present levels of gold production is dependent on the successful 
acquisition or discovery and development of new orebodies and/or expansion of existing mining operations. 
The economic feasibility of development projects is based upon many factors, including the accuracy of mineral 
reserve estimates; metallurgical recoveries; capital and operating costs; government regulations relating to prices, 
taxes, royalties, land tenure, land use, importing and exporting and environmental protection; and gold prices, 
which are highly volatile. Development projects are also subject to the successful completion of feasibility studies, 
issuance of necessary governmental permits and availability of adequate fi nancing.

Development projects have no operating history upon which to base estimates of future cash fl ow. Estimates 

of proven and probable mineral reserves and cash operating costs are, to a large extent, based upon detailed 
geological and engineering analysis. Centerra also conducts feasibility studies that derive estimates of capital 
and operating costs based upon many factors, including anticipated tonnage and grades of ore to be mined and 
processed; the confi guration of the orebody; ground and mining conditions; expected recovery rates of the gold 
from the ore; and anticipated environmental and regulatory compliance costs.

It is possible that actual costs and economic returns of current and new mining operations may differ materially 

from Centerra’s best estimates. It is not unusual for new mining operations to experience unexpected problems 
during the start-up phase and to require more capital than anticipated. These uncertainties could have an adverse 
impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra’s future prospects may suffer due to enhanced competition for 
mineral acquisition opportunities
Signifi cant and increasing competition exists for mineral acquisition opportunities throughout the world. As a 
result of this competition, some of which is with large, better established mining companies with substantial 
capabilities and greater fi nancial and technical resources, Centerra may be unable to acquire rights to exploit 
additional attractive mining properties on terms it considers acceptable. Accordingly, there can be no assurance 
that Centerra will acquire any interest in additional operations that would yield mineral reserves or result in 
commercial mining operations. Centerra’s inability to acquire such interests could have an adverse impact on 
its future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition. Even if Centerra does acquire such 
interests, the resultant business arrangements may not ultimately prove benefi cial to Centerra’s business.

Gold mining is subject to a number of operational risks and Centerra may not be 
adequately insured for certain risks
Centerra’s business is subject to a number of risks and hazards, including environmental pollution, accidents or 
spills; industrial and transportation accidents; unexpected labour shortages, disputes or strikes; cost increases for 
contracted and/or purchased goods and services; shortages of required materials and supplies; electrical power 
interruptions; mechanical and electrical equipment failure; changes in the regulatory environment; natural 
phenomena, such as inclement weather conditions, fl oods, earthquakes, pit wall failures, tailings dam failures 
and cave-ins; encountering unusual or unexpected climatic conditions that may or may not result from global 
warming; and encountering unusual or unexpected geological conditions.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   65

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     65

While Centerra takes measures to mitigate the foregoing risks and hazards, there is no assurance that these 
risks and hazards will not result in damage to, or destruction of, Centerra’s gold properties, personal injury or 
death, environmental damage, delays in or interruption of or cessation of production from Centerra’s mines 
or in its exploration or development activities, costs, monetary losses and potential legal liability and adverse 
community and/or governmental action, all of which could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash 
fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

In February 2008, an unplanned shutdown of the ball mill at Kumtor was required to temporarily repair 
the ring gear which had failed. The repair was completed in late March 2008 and the ball mill returned to full 
operation. A new gear was ordered from the original supplier of the mill. In order to limit the impact which a 
shut-down would have on production, the installation of the new gear was carried out in April 2010 when only 
low-grade mill feed was being processed. In February 2009, the SAG mill at the Kumtor mill also experienced 
a similar mechanical breakdown of the girth gear with the failure of two teeth. A spare girth gear was installed 
immediately. A replacement for the damaged quadrant of the girth gear was manufactured and returned to 
Kumtor stock in October 2010.

The Kumtor tailings dam design is currently approved by the Kyrgyz authorities to elevation 3,670.5 metres. 

The dam crest is presently at elevation 3,664 metres. Kumtor is required to apply and obtain permits from the 
Kyrgyz Government from time to time to address interim raising and construction activities. The next tailings 
dam raising is scheduled for 2013. 

In addition, the currently permitted tailings management facility does not have suffi cient capacity to store 
the entire approximate 62 million tonnes of ore to be processed in the current life-of-mine plan. The capacity 
shortfall of approximately 12 million tonnes of ore or 8.4 million cubic metres of tailings will require further 
raising of the existing tailings dam beyond the 3,670.5 elevation, or the construction of an additional tailings 
facility to be completed prior to 2019 for the last two years of the life-of-mine. 

While the Company has obtained the necessary permits and authorizations in the past in connection with 
tailings dam raises, there are no assurances that such permits and authorizations can be obtained in the future or 
obtained in the timeframe required by the Company. If all necessary permits and authorizations are not obtained, 
delays in, or interruptions or cessation of Centerra’s production from the Kumtor project may occur, which may 
have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations or fi nancial condition.

Although Centerra maintains insurance to cover some of these risks and hazards in amounts it believes to be 
reasonable, its insurance may not provide adequate coverage in all circumstances. No assurance can be given that 
insurance will continue to be available at economically feasible premiums or that it will provide suffi cient 
coverage for losses related to these or other risks and hazards.

Centerra may also be subject to liability or sustain losses in relation to certain risks and hazards against which 

it cannot insure or for which it may elect not to insure. The occurrence of operational risks and/or a shortfall or 
lack of insurance coverage could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of 
operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra is subject to environmental, health and safety risks
Centerra expends signifi cant fi nancial and managerial resources to comply with a complex set of environmental, 
health and safety laws, regulations, guidelines and permitting requirements (for the purpose of this paragraph, 
“laws”) drawn from a number of different jurisdictions. Centerra believes it is in material compliance with these 
laws. Centerra anticipates that it will be required to continue to do so in the future as the historical trend toward 
stricter laws is likely to continue. The possibility of more stringent laws or more rigorous enforcement of existing 
laws exists in the areas of worker health and safety, the disposition of wastes, the decommissioning and reclamation 
of mining sites, restriction of areas where exploration, development and mining activities may take place and 
other environmental matters, each of which could have a material adverse effect on Centerra’s exploration, 
operations and the cost or the viability of a particular project.

Centerra’s facilities operate under various operating and environmental permits, licenses and approvals that 

contain conditions that must be met and Centerra’s right to continue operating its facilities is, in a number of 
instances, dependent upon compliance with these conditions. Failure to meet certain of these conditions could 

66     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   66

27/03/12   8:21 AM

result in interruption or closure of exploration, development or mining operations or material fi nes or penalties, 
all of which could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and 
fi nancial condition. Centerra is unable to quantify the costs of such a failure.

Centerra’s properties, including the Gatsuurt project, may be subject to defects in title
Centerra has investigated its rights to explore and exploit all of its material properties, and, except as described 
below, to the best of its knowledge, those rights are in good standing. However, no assurance can be given that 
such rights will not be revoked or signifi cantly altered to Centerra’s detriment. There can also be no assurance 
that Centerra’s rights will not be challenged or impugned by third parties, including local governments. On 
December 6, 2006, Gatsuurt LLC commenced arbitration before the Mongolian National Arbitration Court 
(“MNAC”) alleging non-compliance by Centerra’s subsidiary, CGM, with its obligation to complete a feasibility 
study on the Gatsuurt property by December 31, 2005 and seeking the return of the license. Centerra believed 
that Gatsuurt LLC’s position was without merit. CGM challenged the MNAC’s jurisdiction and the independence 
and impartiality of the Gatsuurt LLC nominee to the arbitration panel. Centerra and Gatsuurt LLC have reached 
an agreement to terminate arbitration proceedings. Further to that agreement CGM paid $1.5 million to Gatsuurt 
LLC. On signing of a defi nitive agreement, but subject to CGM having entered into an investment agreement with 
the Government of Mongolia in respect of the development of the Gatsuurt project, CGM will make a further 
non-refundable payment to Gatsuurt LLC in the amount of $1.5 million. Final settlement with Gatsuurt LLC is 
subject to the negotiation and signing of a defi nitive settlement agreement.

Centerra is currently in discussions with the applicable Kyrgyz regulatory authorities regarding a certifi cate 
of temporary land use in relation to its concession area in the Kyrgyz Republic. The Company is in receipt of a 
governmental decree authorizing the issuance of the certifi cate and is in discussions to obtain the fi nal certifi cate. 
The Company expects that a new certifi cate of temporary land use will be issued shortly, although there can be 
no assurance that this will be the case. 

Although Centerra is not currently aware of any existing title uncertainties with respect to any of its properties 

except as discussed in the preceding paragraphs, there is no assurance that such uncertainties will not result in 
future losses or additional expenditures, which could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, 
earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

Restrictive covenants in Centerra’s revolving credit facility may prevent the Company from 
pursuing business activities that could otherwise improve the Company’s results of operations 
Pursuant to Centerra’s Credit Facility, the Company must maintain certain fi nancial ratios and satisfy other 
non-fi nancial maintenance covenants. The Company and its material subsidiaries are also subject to other 
restrictive and affi rmative covenants in respect of their respective operations. Compliance with these covenants 
and fi nancial ratios may impair the Company’s ability to fi nance its future operations or capital needs or to take 
advantage of other favourable business opportunities. The Company’s ability to comply with these covenants and 
fi nancial ratios will depend on its future performance, which may be affected by events beyond the control of the 
Company. The Company’s failure to comply with any of these covenants or fi nancial ratios will result in a default 
under the Credit Agreement and may result in the acceleration of any indebtedness under the Credit Agreement. 
In the event of a default and Centerra is unable to repay any amounts then outstanding, the lender, EBRD may be 
entitled to take possession of the collateral securing the Credit Facility, including certain mobile equipment used 
in the operations at Kumtor and the Mongolian mining licenses, to the extent required to repay those borrowings. 

Both projects are unionized and there are no assurances that any renewals of the collective 
agreements can be negotiated on satisfactory terms. Centerra may also be subject to 
labour unrest or other labour disturbances. 
Non-management employees at Kumtor and Boroo (including those in head offi ce) are unionized and subject 
to collective agreements. At Kumtor, the current collective bargaining agreement which was ratifi ed in October 
2010, following a ten-day illegal work action, expires on December 31, 2012. As of February 6, 2012, unionized 
employees at Kumtor began an illegal strike. See “Other Corporate Developments – Corporate”. At Boroo, the 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     67

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   67

27/03/12   8:21 AM

current collective agreement expires June 30, 2012. There can be no assurance that there will not be any delays 
in the renewal process, that negotiations will not prove diffi cult or that Centerra will be able to renegotiate the 
collective agreement on satisfactory terms, or at all. Centerra could be subject to labour unrest or other labour 
disturbances including strikes as a result of any failure of negotiations which could, while ongoing, have a 
material adverse impact on Centerra, including the achievement of any annual production guidelines and costs 
estimates. The renewal of the collective agreement could result in higher on-going labor costs, which could have 
a material adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition. 
In addition, existing collective agreement may not prevent a strike or work stoppage, and any such work stoppage 
could have a material adverse impact on Centerra. 

There can be no assurance that Centerra will be able to successfully complete negotiations 
for an investment agreement for Gatsuurt and obtain all necessary permits and 
commissions needed to commence mining activity at Gatsuurt
There can be no assurance that Centerra will be able to successfully negotiate with the Government of Mongolia 
a mutually acceptable investment agreement for the development and operation of the Gatsuurt project. 
While there is no legal requirement for an investment agreement to be executed before Centerra commences 
development and mining operations at Gatsuurt, management of the Company believes that it is important for 
the viability of the project. 

Negotiations in 2010 regarding the Gatsuurt investment agreement were stopped in April 2010 when the 

Company received a letter from the MMRE indicated that the Gatsuurt licenses were within the area designated, 
on a preliminary basis, as land where mineral mining is prohibited under the Water and Forest Law, and that the 
MMRE would communicate with the Company further on negotiations with respect to an investment agreement 
for the Gatsuurt project once the MMRE received additional clarity on the impact of the Water and Forest Law 
on the Gatsuurt project.

Mining activities at Gatsuurt is subject to Centerra obtaining from the Government of Mongolia the necessary 
permits and commissions. There are no assurances that the Mongolian Government will grant such permits and 
commissions to Centerra in a timely manner or at all, and on terms acceptable to Centerra. While the Company 
did receive several permits during the course of 2010 in relation to the Gatsuurt project, in November 2010, the 
Company received a letter from Mongolia’s Ministry of Finance indicating that operations at the Gatsuurt project 
cannot be commenced while the implementation of the Water and Forest Law is being resolved. Accordingly, 
further approvals and commissioning of Gatsuurt will be delayed as a result of the Water and Forest Law. 

Centerra’s inability to develop and operate the Gatsuurt project could have an adverse effect on its future cash 

fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra’s operations in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia are located in areas of seismic activity
The areas surrounding both Centerra’s Kumtor project and Boroo project are seismically active. While the risks 
of seismic activity were taken into account when determining the design criteria for Centerra’s Kumtor and 
Boroo operations, there can be no assurance that Centerra’s operations will not be adversely affected by this kind 
of activity, all of which could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of 
operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra’s properties are located in remote locations and require 
a long lead time for equipment and supplies
Centerra operates in remote locations and depends on an uninterrupted fl ow of materials, supplies and services 
to those locations. In addition, Centerra uses expensive, large equipment that requires a long time to procure, 
build and install. Any interruptions to the procurement of equipment, or the fl ow of materials, supplies and 
services to Centerra’s properties could have an adverse impact on its future cash fl ows, earnings, results of 
operations and fi nancial condition. Access to the Kumtor project has been restricted on several occasions by 
illegal roadblocks. 

68     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   68

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Illegal mining has occurred on Centerra’s Mongolian properties, is diffi cult to control, 
may disrupt its operations and may expose it to liability
Illegal mining is widespread in Mongolia. Illegal miners have and may continue to trespass on Centerra’s 
properties and engage in very dangerous practices, including climbing inside caves and old exploration shafts 
without any safety devices. Centerra is unable to continuously monitor the full extent of its exploration and 
operating properties. The presence of illegal miners could also lead to project delays and disputes regarding 
the development or operation of commercial gold deposits, including disputes with Mongolian governmental 
authorities regarding reporting of reserves and mine production. The illegal activities of these miners could cause 
environmental damage (including environmental damage from the use of mercury by these miners) or other 
damage to Centerra’s properties or personal injury or death, for which Centerra could potentially be held 
responsible, all of which could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of 
operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra may be unable to enforce its legal rights in certain circumstances
In the event of a dispute arising at Centerra’s foreign operations, Centerra may be subject to the exclusive 
jurisdiction of foreign courts or may not be successful in subjecting foreign persons to the jurisdiction of courts 
in Canada. Centerra may also be hindered or prevented from enforcing its rights with respect to a governmental 
entity or instrumentality because of the doctrine of sovereign immunity.

The dispute resolution provisions of: (i) the Restated Investment Agreement and (ii) the Boroo Stability 
Agreement stipulate that any dispute between the parties thereto is to be submitted to international arbitration. 
However, there can be no assurance that a particular governmental entity or instrumentality will either comply 
with the provisions of these or any other agreements or voluntarily submit to arbitration. Centerra’s inability 
to enforce its rights could have an adverse effect on its future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and 
fi nancial condition.

Centerra faces substantial decommissioning and reclamation costs 
which may be diffi cult to predict accurately
At each of Centerra’s mine sites, Centerra is required to establish a decommissioning and reclamation plan. 
Provision must be made for the cost of decommissioning and reclamation. These costs can be signifi cant and are 
subject to change. Centerra cannot predict what level of decommissioning and reclamation may be required in 
the future by regulators. If Centerra is required to comply with signifi cant additional regulations or if the actual 
cost of future decommissioning and reclamation is signifi cantly higher than current estimates, this could have 
an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra may experience reduced liquidity and diffi culty in obtaining future fi nancing
The further development and exploration of mineral properties in which Centerra holds or acquires interests 
may depend upon its ability to obtain fi nancing through joint ventures, debt fi nancing, equity fi nancing or other 
means. While the Company successfully negotiated a three-year $150 million revolving credit facility in 2010, 
there is no assurance that Centerra will be successful in obtaining required fi nancing as and when needed in 
the future. 

Volatile gold markets and/or capital markets may make it diffi cult or impossible for Centerra to obtain further 
debt fi nancing or equity fi nancing on favourable terms or at all. Centerra’s principal operations are located in, and 
its strategic focus is on, Asia and the former Soviet Union, developing areas that have experienced past economic 
and political diffi culties and may be perceived as unstable. This may make it more diffi cult for Centerra to obtain 
further debt fi nancing. Failure to obtain additional fi nancing on a timely basis may cause Centerra to postpone 
development plans, forfeit rights in its properties or joint ventures or reduce or terminate its operations. Reduced 
liquidity or diffi culty in obtaining future fi nancing could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, 
earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   69

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     69

Global fi nancial conditions
The fi nancial crisis which began in the latter part of 2007 has resulted in global fi nancial conditions which are 
characterized by continued high volatility, and fi nancial institutions are still recovering from signifi cant losses. 
Access to public fi nancing and bank credit has been negatively impacted by both the rapid decline in value of 
sub-prime mortgages and the resulting liquidity crisis as fi nancial institutions saw their balance sheet impaired. 
Notwithstanding some improvement in the fi nancial health of major fi nancial institutions, global fi nancial 
conditions may affect Centerra’s ability to obtain equity or debt fi nancing in the future on favourable terms. 
Additionally, these factors, as well as other related factors, may cause decreases in Centerra’s asset values that may 
be other than temporary, which may result in impairment losses. If such increased levels of volatility and market 
turmoil continue, or if more extensive disruptions of the global fi nancial markets occur, Centerra’s operations 
could be adversely impacted and the trading price of Centerra’s common shares may be adversely affected.

Currency fl uctuations
Centerra’s earnings and cash fl ow may also be affected by fl uctuations in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar 
and other currencies, such as the Kyrgyz som, the Mongolian tugrik, the Canadian dollar and the Euro. Centerra’s 
consolidated fi nancial statements are expressed in U.S. dollars. Its sales of gold are denominated in U.S. dollars, 
while production costs and corporate administration costs are, in part, denominated in Kyrgyz soms, Mongolian 
tugriks, Canadian dollars, Euros and other currencies. Fluctuations in exchange rates between the U.S dollar 
and other currencies may give rise to foreign exchange currency exposures, both favourable and unfavourable, 
which may materially impact Centerra’s future fi nancial results. Although Centerra from time to time enters 
into short-term forward contracts to purchase Canadian dollars and Euros, Centerra does not utilize a hedging 
program to limit the adverse effects of foreign exchange rate fl uctuations in other currencies. In the case of the 
Kyrgyz som and the Mongolian tugrik, Centerra cannot hedge currency exchange risk because such currencies 
are not freely traded.

Short-term investment risks
The Company may from time to time invest excess cash balances in short-term instruments. Recent market 
conditions affecting certain types of short-term investments of some North American and European issuers 
as well as certain fi nancial institutions have resulted in heightened risk in holding some of these investments. 
There can be no guarantee that further market disruptions affecting various short-term investments or the 
potential failure of fi nancial institutions will not have a negative effect on the liquidity of investments made 
by the Company.

Centerra’s success depends on its ability to attract and retain qualifi ed personnel
Recruiting and retaining qualifi ed personnel is critical to Centerra’s success. The number of persons skilled in the 
acquisition, exploration and development of mining properties is limited and competition for such persons is 
intense. As Centerra’s business activity grows, it will require additional key fi nancial, administrative and mining 
personnel as well as additional operations staff. The Restated Concession Agreement relating to Centerra’s 
Kumtor operations also requires two thirds of all administrative or technical personnel to be citizens of the 
Kyrgyz Republic. However, it has been necessary to engage expatriate workers for Centerra’s operations in 
Mongolia and, to a lesser extent, the Kyrgyz Republic because of the shortage of locally trained personnel. 
Although Centerra believes that it will be successful in attracting, training and retaining qualifi ed personnel, 
there can be no assurance of such success. If Centerra is not successful in attracting and training qualifi ed 
personnel, the effi ciency of its operations could be affected, which could have an adverse impact on its future 
cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

70     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   70

27/03/12   8:21 AM

As a holding company, Centerra’s ability to make payments depends on 
the cash fl ows of its subsidiaries
Centerra is a holding company that conducts substantially all of its operations through subsidiaries, many of 
which are incorporated outside North America. Centerra has no direct operations and no signifi cant assets other 
than the shares of its subsidiaries. Therefore, Centerra is dependent on the cash fl ows of its subsidiaries to meet 
its obligations, including payment of principal and interest on any debt Centerra incurs. The ability of Centerra’s 
subsidiaries to provide it with payments may be constrained by the following factors: (i) the cash fl ows generated 
by operations, investment activities and fi nancing activities; (ii) the level of taxation, particularly corporate 
profi ts and withholding taxes, in the jurisdiction in which they operate; and (iii) the introduction of exchange 
controls and repatriation restrictions or the availability of hard currency to be repatriated.

If Centerra is unable to receive suffi cient cash from its subsidiaries, it may be required to refi nance its 

indebtedness, raise funds in a public or private equity or debt offering or sell some or all of its assets. Centerra 
can provide no assurances that an offering of its debt or equity or a refi nancing of its debt can or will be 
completed on satisfactory terms or that it would be suffi cient to enable it to make payment with respect to its 
debt. The foregoing events could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of 
operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra may experience diffi culties with its joint venture partners
Centerra has a number of joint venture partners and it may in the future enter into additional joint ventures. 
Centerra is subject to the risks normally associated with the conduct of joint ventures. These risks include 
disagreement with a joint venture partner on how to develop, operate and fi nance a project and possible litigation 
between Centerra and a joint venture partner regarding joint venture matters. These matters may have an adverse 
effect on Centerra’s ability to pursue the projects subject to the joint venture, which could affect its future cash 
fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition.

Centerra’s largest shareholder is the Kyrgyz Government
Centerra’s largest shareholder Kyrgyzaltyn, which is owned and controlled by the Kyrgyz Government, owns 
approximately 33% of the common shares of Centerra. Pursuant to the terms of the Restated Investment 
Agreement, Kyrgyzaltyn has two nominees on the board of directors of Centerra. There can be no assurance 
that the Kyrgyz Government will not use its infl uence as Centerra’s largest shareholder to materially change 
the direction of the Company. This concentration of ownership may have the effect of delaying or preventing 
a change in control of Centerra, which may deprive Centerra’s shareholders of a control premium that might 
otherwise be offered in connection with such a change of control. The Company is aware that Kyrgyzaltyn has 
in the past received inquiries regarding the potential acquisition of some or all of its common shares and the sale 
by Kyrgyzaltyn of its shareholdings to a third party could result in a new purchasing shareholder obtaining a 
considerable interest in the Company. Should Kyrgyzaltyn sell some or all of its interest in Centerra, there can 
be no assurance that an offer would be made to the other shareholders of Centerra or that the interests of such a 
shareholder would be consistent with the plans of the Company or that such a sale would not decrease the value 
of the common shares.

Centerra’s directors may have confl icts of interest
Certain of Centerra’s directors also serve as directors and/or offi cers of other companies involved in natural 
resource exploration, development and production and consequently there exists the possibility for such 
directors to be in a position of confl ict.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   71

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     71

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

Information contained in this Annual MD&A which are not statements of historical facts, and the documents 
incorporated by reference herein, may be “forward looking information” for the purposes of Canadian securities 
laws. Such forward looking information involves risks, uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual 
results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such 
forward looking information. The words “believe”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “contemplate”, “target”, “plan”, 
“intends”, “continue”, “budget”, “estimate”, “may”, “will”, “schedule” and similar expressions identify forward-
looking information. These forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, the statements made under 
the heading, “Outlook for 2012”, including the Company’s expectations regarding future growth, results of 
operations, future production and sales, operating capital expenditures, and performance; expected trends in the 
gold market, including with respect to costs of gold production; capital and operational expenses for 2012 and the 
ability to fund them from cash fl ow or to access public markets (and its ability to do so successfully); exploration 
plans for 2012 and the success thereof; mining plans at each of the Company’s operations; the receipt of 
permitting and regulatory approvals at the Company’s Gatsuurt development property; the impact of the Water 
and Forest Law on the Company’s Mongolian activities; the application of the new graduated royalty fee regime 
under the 2006 Mongolian Minerals Law to the Company’s Mongolian properties; permitting of the Company’s 
heap leach activities at the Boroo mine; anticipated delays and approvals and regulatory commissioning of the 
Company’s Gatsuurt development property as a result of the Water and Forest Law; the continued success with 
the management of ice and water movement at Kumtor; the Company’s business and political environment and 
business prospects; and the timing and development of new deposits. 

Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while 

considered reasonable by Centerra, are inherently subject to signifi cant political, business, economic and 
competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Known and unknown factors could cause actual results to differ 
materially from those projected in the forward looking information. Material assumptions used to forecast 
production and costs include those described under the heading “2012 Outlook”. Factors that could cause actual 
results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: the sensitivity of the 
Company’s business to the volatility of gold prices; the political risks associated with the Company’s principal 
operations in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia; the impact of changes in, or more oppressive enforcement of, 
laws, regulations and government practices in the jurisdictions in which the Company operates; the effect of the 
2006 Mongolian Minerals Law; the effect of the November 2010 amendments to the 2006 Mongolian Minerals 
Law on the royalty payments payable in connection with the Company’s Mongolian operations; the effect of 
the Water and Forest Law on the Company’s operations in Mongolia; the impact of continued scrutiny from 
Mongolian regulatory authorities; the impact of changes to, or the increased enforcement of, environmental laws 
and regulations relating to the Company’s operations; the Company’s ability to replace its reserves; ground 
movements at the Kumtor Mine; waste and ice movement at the Kumtor Mine; litigation; the accuracy of the 
Company’s reserves and resources estimate; the accuracy of the Company’s production and cost estimates; the 
success of the Company’s future exploration and development activities; competition for mineral acquisition 
opportunities; the adequacy of the Company’s insurance; environmental, health and safety risks; defects in title 
in connection with the Company’s properties; the impact of restrictive covenants in the Company’s revolving 
credit facility; the Company’s ability to successfully renew any collective agreements and to avoid any labour 
disturbances; the Company’s ability to successfully negotiate an investment agreement for the Gatsuurt 
development property and the Company’s ability to obtain all necessary permits and commissions needed to 
commence mining activity at the Gatsuurt development property; seismic activity in the vicinity of the Company’s 
operations in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia; long lead times required for equipment and supplies given 
the remote location of the Company’s properties; illegal mining on the Company’s Mongolian properties; the 
Company’s ability to enforce its legal rights; the Company’s ability to accurately predict decommissioning 
and reclamation costs; the Company’s ability to obtain future fi nancing; the impact of current global fi nancial 
conditions; the impact of currency fl uctuations; the effect of recent market conditions on the Company’s short-
term investments; the Company’s ability to attract and retain qualifi ed personnel; the Company’s ability to make 

72     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   72

27/03/12   8:21 AM

payments including payments of principal and interest on the Company’s debt facilities; risks associated with the 
conduct of joint ventures; risks associated with the Company’s largest shareholder, the Kyrgyz government; and 
possible director confl icts of interest. There may be other factors that cause results, assumptions, performance, 
achievements, prospects or opportunities in future periods not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. See 
“Risk Factors” in the Company’s most recently fi led AIF available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. 

Furthermore, market price fl uctuations in gold, as well as increased capital or production costs or reduced 
recovery rates may render ore reserves containing lower grades of mineralization uneconomic and may ultimately 
result in a restatement of reserves. The extent to which resources may ultimately be reclassifi ed as proven or 
probable reserves is dependent upon the demonstration of their profi table recovery. Economic and technological 
factors which may change over time always infl uence the evaluation of reserves or resources. Centerra has not 
adjusted mineral resource fi gures in consideration of these risks and, therefore, Centerra can give no assurances 
that any mineral resource estimate will ultimately be reclassifi ed as proven and probable reserves.

Reserve and resource fi gures included in this MD&A are estimates and Centerra can provide no assurances 

that the indicated levels of gold will be produced or that Centerra will receive the gold price assumed in 
determining its reserves. Such estimates are expressions of judgment based on knowledge, mining experience, 
analysis of drilling results and industry practices. Valid estimates made at a given time may signifi cantly change 
when new information becomes available. While Centerra believes that these reserve and resource estimates are 
well established and the best estimates of Centerra’s management, by their nature reserve and resource estimates 
are imprecise and depend, to a certain extent, upon analysis of drilling results and statistical inferences which 
may ultimately prove unreliable. 

Centerra has not adjusted resource fi gures included herein in consideration of these risks and, therefore, 

Centerra can give no assurances that any resource estimate will ultimately be reclassifi ed as proven and probable 
reserves or incorporated into future production guidance. If Centerra’s reserve or resource estimates or 
production guidance for its gold properties are inaccurate or are reduced in the future, this could have an adverse 
impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition. Centerra estimates 
the future mine life of its operations and provides production guidance in respect of its mining operations. 
Centerra can give no assurance that mine life estimates will be achieved or that actual production will not differ 
materially from its guidance. Failure to achieve estimates or production guidance could have an adverse impact 
on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations and fi nancial condition. 

Mineral resources are not mineral reserves, and do not have demonstrated economic viability, but do have 
reasonable prospects for economic extraction. Measured and indicated resources are suffi ciently well defi ned 
to allow geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed and permit the application of technical and 
economic parameters in assessing the economic viability of the resource. Inferred resources are estimated on 
limited information not suffi cient to verify geological and grade continuity or to allow technical and economic 
parameters to be applied. Interred resources are too speculative geologically to have economic considerations 
applied to them to enable them to be categorized as mineral reserves. There is no certainty that mineral resources 
of any category can be upgraded to mineral reserves through continued exploration. 

There can be no assurances that forward looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, as 

many factors and future events, both known and unknown could cause actual results, performance or achievements 
to vary or differ materially, from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or 
implied by such forward looking statements contained herein or incorporated by reference. Accordingly, all such 
factors should be considered carefully when making decisions with respect to Centerra, and prospective investors 
should not place undue reliance on forward looking information. Forward looking information is as of February 
23, 2012. Centerra assumes no obligation to update or revise forward looking information to refl ect changes in 
assumptions, changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such forward looking information, except 
as required by applicable law.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   73

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     73

Report of Management’s Accountability

The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared by the management of the Company. Management 
is responsible for the integrity, consistency and reliability of all such information presented. The Consolidated 
Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as 
issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. 

The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements involves the use of estimates and assumptions 

based on management’s judgment, particularly when transactions affecting the current accounting period cannot 
be fi nalized with certainty until future periods. Estimates and assumptions are based on historical experience, 
current conditions and various other assumptions believed to be reasonable in the circumstances, with critical 
analysis of the signifi cant accounting policies followed by the Company as described in note 3 to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements. The preparation of the Consolidated Financial Statements includes information regarding 
the estimated impact of future events and transactions. Actual results in the future may differ materially from the 
present assessment of this information because future events and circumstances may not occur as expected.

In meeting its responsibility for the reliability of fi nancial information, management maintains and relies on a 
comprehensive system of internal controls and internal audit checks to see if the controls are operating as designed. 
The system of internal controls includes a written corporate conduct policy; implementation of a risk management 
framework; effective segregation of duties and delegation of authorities; and sound and conservative accounting 
policies that are regularly reviewed. This structure is designed to provide reasonable assurance that assets are 
safeguarded and that reliable information is available on a timely basis. In addition internal and disclosure 
controls have been documented, evaluated, tested and identifi ed consistent with National Instrument 52-109. 
An internal audit function independently evaluates the effectiveness of these internal controls on an ongoing 
basis and reports its fi ndings to management and the Audit Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors. 
The Consolidated Financial Statements have been audited by KPMG LLP, independent external auditors 
appointed by the Company’s shareholders. The external auditors’ responsibility is to express their opinion on 
whether the Consolidated Financial Statements are fairly presented in accordance with International Financial 
Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. KPMG LLP, whose report 
appears on page 75, outlines the scope of their examination and their opinion. 

The Company’s Directors, through its Audit Committee, are responsible for ensuring that management fulfi lls 

its responsibilities for fi nancial reporting and internal controls. The Audit Committee met periodically with 
management, the internal auditors, and the external auditors to satisfy itself that each group had properly 
discharged its respective responsibility and to review the Consolidated Financial Statements before recommending 
approval by the Board of Directors. The external auditors had direct and full access to the Audit Committee, with 
and without the presence of management, to discuss their audit and their fi ndings as to the integrity of the 
fi nancial reporting.

 The Company’s President and Chief Executive Offi cer and the Company’s Vice President and Chief Financial 

Offi cer have certifi ed the design and effectiveness of related internal controls over fi nancial reporting pursuant 
to National Instrument 52-109. 

Original signed by: 

Original signed by:

Stephen A. Lang 
President and Chief Executive Offi cer 

Jeffrey S. Parr
Vice President and  Chief Financial Offi cer

February 23, 2012

74     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   74

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Independent Auditors’ Report

To the Shareholders of Centerra Gold Inc.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated fi nancial statements of Centerra Gold Inc., which comprise the 
consolidated statements of fi nancial position as at December 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and January 1, 2010, 
the consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash fl ows for 
the years ended December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010, and notes, comprising a summary of signifi cant 
accounting policies and other explanatory information.

Management’s responsibility for the consolidated fi nancial statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these consolidated fi nancial statements 
in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, and for such internal control as management 
determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated fi nancial statements that are free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditors’ responsibility
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated fi nancial statements based on our audits. 
We conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards 
require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance 
about whether the consolidated fi nancial statements are free from material misstatement.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the 
consolidated fi nancial statements. The procedures selected depend on our judgment, including the assessment 
of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated fi nancial statements, whether due to fraud or error. 
In making those risk assessments, we consider internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair 
presentation of the consolidated fi nancial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in 
the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal 
control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness 
of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated 
fi nancial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained in our audits is suffi cient and appropriate to provide a 

basis for our audit opinion.

Opinion
In our opinion, the consolidated fi nancial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated 
fi nancial position of Centerra Gold Inc. as at December 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and January 1, 2010, and its 
consolidated fi nancial performance and its consolidated cash fl ows for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 
December 31, 2010 in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards.

Toronto, Canada 
February 23, 2012 

KPMG LLP
Chartered Accountants, Licensed Public Accountants

Original signed by:

2011_Centerra_Page 75-76.indd   75

Mar/31/2012   1:31 PM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     75

 
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

(Expressed in Thousands of United States Dollars) 

NOTES

December 31 
2011 

December 31 
2010 

January 1
2010

Assets
Current assets
  Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 

  Restricted cash 
  Amounts receivable 

Inventories 

  Prepaid expenses 

Property, plant and equipment 
Goodwill 
Long-term receivables and other 
Long-term inventories 
Deferred income tax asset 

Total assets 

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilities
  Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
  Revenue-based tax 
  Taxes payable 
  Current portion of provisions 

Provisions 
Deferred income tax liability 

Shareholders’ equity
Share capital 

  Contributed surplus 
  Retained earnings 

3(c) 
3(e) 
6 
7 
8 

9 
11 
12 
8 
14(c) 

13 
14(a) 

16 

16 
14(c) 

25 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

Commitments and contingencies (note 26)

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these consolidated fi nancial statements.

Approved by the Board of Directors

Original signed by:

Patrick M. James, 
Director 

Ian G. Austin,
Director

$ 

195,539 
  372,667 
179 
56,749 
  279,944 
26,836 
  931,914 
  590,151 
129,705 
24,674 
12,174 
– 
  756,704 
$  1,688,618 

$ 

76,385 
15,178 
1,074 
1,848 
94,485 
53,777 
1,897 
55,674 

  660,117 
33,994 
  844,348 
  1,538,459 
$  1,688,618 

$  330,737 
82,278 
795 
  100,562 
181,633 
22,221 
  718,226 
  519,019 
129,705 
17,299 
12,877 
3,367 
  682,267 
$ 1,400,493 

$ 

70,909 
25,489 
1,865 
9,553 
107,816 
30,880 
– 
30,880 

  655,178 
33,827 
  572,792 
  1,261,797 
$ 1,400,493 

$  176,904
145,971
–
44,281
151,822
11,718
  530,696
  382,250
129,705
6,554
23,120
62
  541,691
$ 1,072,387

$ 

49,098
29,355
5,711
7,399
91,563
26,546
8,700
35,246

  646,081
35,376
  264,121
  945,578
$ 1,072,387

76     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 75-76.indd   76

Mar/31/2012   1:31 PM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Earnings 
and Comprehensive Income

For the years ended December 31,

(Expressed in Thousands of United States Dollars, 
except per share amounts) 

Revenue from Gold Sales 
  Cost of sales 
  Mine standby costs 
  Regional offi ce administration 

Earnings from mine operations 
  Revenue-based taxes 
  Other operating expenses 
  Exploration and business development 
  Corporate administration 

Earnings from operations 
  Other (income) and expenses 

Finance costs 

  Gain on sale of REN property 

Earnings before income taxes 

Income tax expense 

Net earnings and comprehensive income 

Basic and diluted earnings per common share 

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these consolidated fi nancial statements.

NOTES

2011 

2010

17 
18 

14(a) 
19 
20 
21 

22 
23 
24 

14(b) 

25 

$ 1,020,344 
  382,295 
213 
21,322 

  616,514 
131,750 
15,471 
42,894 
44,902 

  381,497 
(1,056) 
3,545 
– 

  379,008 
8,130 

$  849,753
  342,190
1,280
21,074

  485,209
98,597
7,987
32,446
52,270

  293,909
590
1,467
(34,866)

  326,718
4,427

$  370,878 

$ 

1.57 

$  322,291

$ 

1.37

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   77

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     77

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

For the years ended December 31,

(Expressed in Thousands of United States Dollars) 

NOTES

2011 

2010

Operating activities
Net earnings 
Items not requiring (providing) cash:
  Depreciation, depletion and amortization 

Finance costs 

  Loss on disposal of plant and equipment 
  Gain on disposal of REN property 

Stock-based compensation expense 

  Change in long-term inventory 

Income tax expense 
  Other operating items 

  Change in operating working capital 

Income tax paid 

Cash provided by operations 

Investing activities
  Net increase (decrease) in restricted cash 
  Additions to property, plant and equipment 
  Net (purchase) redemption of short-term investments 
  Long-term other assets 
  Proceeds from disposition of REN property 
  Proceeds from disposition of fi xed assets 

Cash used in investing 

Financing activities
  Dividends paid 
  Payment of transaction costs related to borrowing 
  Proceeds from common shares issued for cash 

Cash used in fi nancing 
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents during the year 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year 

14(b) 

30 

30 

$  370,878 

$  322,291

98,840 
3,545 
1,305 
– 
1,759 
703 
8,130 
(2,430) 
  482,730 
(44,150) 
(3,657) 

  434,923 

(616) 
(175,155) 
  (290,389) 
(7,375) 
– 
19 

  (473,516) 

(99,322) 
(630) 
3,347 

(96,605) 
  (135,198) 
  330,737 

76,087
1,467
1,964
(34,866)
1,107
10,243
4,427
(1,622)
  381,098
(79,778)
(20,279)

  281,041

795
  (208,224)
63,693
(10,745)
34,866
44

(119,571)

(13,620)
(458)
6,441

(7,637)
153,833
  176,904

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year 

$ 

195,539 

$  330,737

Cash and cash equivalents consist of:
  Cash 
  Cash equivalents 

The accompanying notes form an integral part of these consolidated fi nancial statements.

$ 

$ 

75,193 
120,346 
195,539 

$ 

81,314
  249,423
$  330,737

78     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 78-79.indd   78

Mar/31/2012   1:33 PM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

(Expressed in Thousands of United States Dollars, 
except share information) 

Balance at January 1, 2010 
Shares issued on exercise of stock  options 
Stock-based compensation expense 
Dividends declared 
Net earnings 

Balance at December 31, 2010 
Shares issued on exercise of stock options 
Stock-based compensation expense 
Dividends declared 
Net earnings 

Number of
Common 
Shares 

234,857,228 
1,012,169 
– 
– 
– 

235,869,397 
469,644 
– 
– 
– 

Amount 

$  646,081 
9,097 
– 
– 
– 

$  655,178 
4,939 
– 
– 
– 

Contributed 
Surplus 

Retained
Earnings 

$ 

$ 

35,376 
(2,656) 
1,107 
– 
– 

33,827 
(1,592) 
1,759 
– 
– 

$  264,121 
– 
– 
(13,620) 
  322,291 

$  572,792 
– 
– 
(99,322) 
  370,878 

Total

$  945,578
6,441
1,107
(13,620)
322,291

$  1,261,797
3,347
1,759
(99,322)
  370,878

Balance at December 31, 2011 

236,339,041 

$  660,117 

$ 

33,994 

$  844,348 

$  1,538,459

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated fi nancial statements.

2011_Centerra_Page 78-79.indd   79

Mar/31/2012   1:33 PM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     79

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

For the years ended December 31, 2011, and December 31, 2010
(Expressed in thousands of United States Dollars)

1. GENERAL BUSINESS DESCRIPTION

Centerra Gold Inc. (“Centerra” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations 
Act on November 7, 2002. Centerra has common shares listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”). The 
Company is domiciled in Canada and the registered offi ce is 1 University Avenue, Suite 1500, Toronto, Ontario, 
M5J 2P1. The Company is engaged in the production of gold and related activities including exploration, 
development, mining and processing in the Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Turkey, China, the Russian Federation 
and the United States of America.

2. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
a. Statement of Compliance
These consolidated fi nancial statements represent the fi rst annual fi nancial statements of the Company and its 
subsidiaries prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”), as issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”). The Company adopted IFRS in accordance with IFRS 1, 
First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards. As these fi nancial statements are the Company’s 
fi rst annual fi nancial statements prepared using IFRS, these fi nancial statements should be read in conjunction 
with the IFRS transition disclosures included in note 33 to these fi nancial statements which contains reconciliations 
and descriptions of the effect of the transition from Canadian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“CGAAP”) 
to IFRS on equity, earnings and comprehensive income, along with line-by-line reconciliations of the consolidated 
statements of fi nancial position as at December 31, 2010 and January 1, 2010, and the consolidated statements of 
earnings and comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, 2010. The fi rst date at which IFRS was 
applied was January 1, 2010. 

These fi nancial statements were authorized for issuance by the Board of Directors of the Company on 

February 23, 2012.

b. Basis of measurement
These fi nancial statements were prepared under the historical cost basis, except for available for sale fi nancial 
assets and derivative fi nancial instruments, which are measured at fair value, liabilities for cash settled share-
based compensation, which are measured at fair value and inventories which are measured at the lower of cost 
and net realizable value. 

These fi nancial statements are presented in U.S. dollars with all amounts rounded to the nearest thousand, 

except for share and per share data, or as otherwise noted. 

3. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The signifi cant accounting policies summarized below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in 
these consolidated fi nancial statements, including preparation of the opening IFRS statement of fi nancial position 
at January 1, 2010, for the purposes of the transition to IFRS. 

a. Consolidation principles
These consolidated fi nancial statements include the accounts of Centerra, its operating subsidiaries, and its 
proportionate ownership of jointly-controlled entities. Subsidiaries are entities over which the Company has control, 
where control is defi ned as the power to govern fi nancial and operating policies. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated 
from the date control is transferred to the Company, and are de-consolidated from the date control ceases.

80     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   80

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Inter-company transactions between subsidiaries are eliminated on consolidation. 
Joint ventures are entities over whose activities the Company has joint control under a contractual agreement. 

These consolidated fi nancial statements include the Company’s proportionate share of the entity’s assets, 
liabilities, revenues and expenses with items of a similar nature on a line-by-line basis, from the date that joint 
control commences until the date that joint control ceases.

The Company’s signifi cant subsidiaries and jointly-controlled entities include its wholly-owned Kumtor 
Gold Company (“KGC” operating as “Kumtor”), Boroo Gold LLC (“BGC” operating as “Boroo”), Centerra Gold 
Mongolia LLC (“CGM”) (owner of the Gatsuurt property and ATO property), fi fty percent interest in the Kara 
Beldyr Russian joint venture and fi fty percent interest in the Öksüt Turkish joint venture. 

b. Foreign currency
The functional currency of the Company and each of its subsidiaries is the U.S. dollar, which is also the presentation 
currency of the consolidated fi nancial statements.

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the entity’s functional currency using the exchange rate 
prevailing on the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement 
of such transactions and from the translation at year-end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities 
denominated in foreign currencies are recognized in the income statement. Non-monetary assets and liabilities, 
arising from transactions denominated in foreign currencies, are translated at the historical exchange rates 
prevailing at each transaction date. Translation differences on fi nancial assets and liabilities carried at fair value 
are recognized in foreign exchange gain (loss) in the Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income. 

c. Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and short-term investments with original maturities of 90 days 
or less. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of Centerra’s cash management 
are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the statement of cash fl ows. Cash 
and cash equivalents are classifi ed as fi nancial instruments carried at fair value through profi t or loss.

d. Restricted Cash 
Cash which is subject to legal or contractual restrictions on use is classifi ed separately as restricted cash.

e. Short-term investments
Short-term investments consist of marketable securities with maturities of more than 90 days, but no longer 
than 12 months, from the date of purchase. Short-term investments consist mostly of U.S. federal and Canadian 
federal and provincial government treasury bills and notes, agency notes, foreign sovereign issues, term deposits, 
bankers’ acceptances, bearer deposit notes, and highly-rated, highly-liquid corporate direct credit. Short-term 
investments are classifi ed as fi nancial instruments carried at fair value through profi t or loss.

f. Inventories
Inventories of stockpiled ore, heap leach ore, in-circuit gold, heap leach in-circuit and gold doré are valued at the 
lower of average production cost and net realizable value, based on contained ounces of gold. The production cost 
of inventories is determined on a weighted-average basis and includes direct materials, direct labour, mine-site 
overhead expenses and depreciation, depletion and amortization of mining interests.

Stockpiled ore and heap leach ore are ore that has been extracted from the mine and is available for further 
processing. Costs are added to stockpiles based on the current mining cost per ounce mined and removed at the 
average cost per ounce mined. Costs are added to ore on the heap leach pads based on current mining costs and 
removed from the heap leach pads as ounces are recovered, based on the average cost per recoverable ounce 
of gold on the leach pad. Ore in stockpiles not expected to be processed in the next twelve months is classifi ed 
as long-term.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   81

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     81

In-circuit inventories and gold doré represent materials that are in the process of being converted to a 

saleable product. Variances between actual and estimated quantities resulting from changes in assumptions and 
estimates that do not result in write downs to net realizable value (“NRV”) are accounted for on a prospective 
basis. The ultimate recovery of gold inventories from the in-circuit and gold doré will not be known until the fi nal 
refi ning process has concluded. 

When inventories are sold, the carrying amount is recognized as an expense in the period in which the related 
revenue is recognized. Any write-down of inventories to NRV or reversals of previous write-downs are recognized 
in income in the period the write-down or reversal occurs. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the 
ordinary course of business, less estimated costs of completion and estimated costs necessary to make the sale.

Consumable supplies and spare parts are valued at the lower of weighted-average cost and NRV, which is the 
approximate replacement cost. Replacement cost includes expenditures incurred to acquire the inventories and 
bring them to their existing location and condition. Any provision for obsolescence is determined by reference to 
specifi c stock items identifi ed as obsolete. A regular and ongoing review is undertaken to establish the extent of 
surplus items and a provision is made for any potential loss on their disposal.

g.  Property, plant and equipment

i.  General

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost less accumulated depreciation, depletion and impairment 
charges. Where an item of plant and equipment comprises major components with different useful lives, 
the components are depreciated separately but are grouped for disclosure purposes as plant and equipment.
  Major overhaul expenditures and the cost of replacement of a component of plant and mobile equipment 
are capitalized and amortized over the average expected life between major overhauls. All other replacement 
spares and other costs relating to maintenance of mobile equipment are charged to the cost of production 
if it is not probable that signifi cant future economic benefi ts generated by the item overhauled will fl ow to 
the Company.
  Directly attributable costs incurred for major capital projects and site preparation are capitalized until 
the asset is in a location and condition necessary for the operation intended by management. These costs 
include dismantling and site restoration costs to the extent these are recognized as a provision.
  Management annually reviews the estimated useful lives, residual values and depreciation methods of 
the Company’s property, plant and equipment and also when events and circumstances indicate that such a 
review should be made. Changes to estimated useful lives, residual values or depreciation methods resulting 
from such review are accounted for prospectively. 
  All direct costs related to the acquisition of mineral property interests are capitalized at their cost at the 
date of acquisition. 
  An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognized upon disposal or when no further future 
economic benefi ts are expected from its use or disposal. Any gain or loss arising on derecognition of the 
asset (calculated as the difference between the proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset) is included 
in profi t or loss in the year the asset is derecognized.

ii.  Exploration, evaluation and pre-development expenditure

All exploration and evaluation expenditures of the Company within an area of interest are expensed until 
management concludes that the technical feasibility and commercial viability of extracting a mineral 
resource are demonstrable and that future economic benefi ts are probable. In making this determination, 
the extent of exploration, as well as the degree of confi dence in the mineral resource is considered. Once 
a project has been established as commercially viable and technically feasible, further expenditure is 
capitalized as pre-development costs. 
  Exploration and evaluation assets acquired in a business combination are initially recognized at fair value 
as exploration rights within tangible assets.
  Pre-development assets are tested for impairment when there is an indicator of impairment.

82     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 82.indd   82

02/04/12   7:11 AM

iii. Development properties (underground and open pit) 

A property, either open pit or underground, is classifi ed as a development property when a mine plan has 
been prepared and a decision is made to commercially develop the property. Development expenditure is 
accumulated separately for each area of interest for which economically recoverable mineral reserves and 
resources have been identifi ed and are reasonably assured.
  All expenditure incurred prior to the commencement of commercial levels of production from each 
development property is capitalized. In addition, capitalized costs are assessed for impairment when there 
is an indicator of impairment. 
  No amortization is provided in respect of development properties until they are reclassifi ed as mine 
property assets following the achievement of commercial levels of production. 

iv. Mine properties

After a mine property has been brought into commercial production, costs of any additional mining, drilling 
and related work on that property are expensed as incurred. Mine development costs incurred to expand 
operating capacity, develop new ore bodies or develop mine areas in advance of current production, 
including the stripping of waste material, are deferred and then amortized on a unit-of-production basis. 

v.  Deferred Stripping costs

Stripping costs incurred in the production phase of a mining operation are accounted for as production 
costs and are included in the costs of inventory produced, unless the stripping activity can be shown to be 
a betterment of the mineral property, in which case the stripping costs are capitalized. Betterment occurs 
when stripping activity increases future output of the mine by providing access to additional reserves. 
Capitalized stripping costs are amortized on a unit-of-production basis over the economically recoverable 
proven and probable reserve ounces of gold to which they relate.

h. Goodwill
Goodwill represents the difference between the sum of the cost of a business acquisition and the fair value of the 
identifi able net assets acquired and is not amortized, subsequently goodwill is measured at cost less accumulated 
impairment loss. For non wholly-owned subsidiaries, the Company has a choice for each business acquisition 
to record non-controlling interests at either fair value or at the non-controlling interest’s proportion of the fair 
values of the identifi able net assets recognized at acquisition.

Goodwill, upon acquisition, is allocated to the cash-generating unit (“CGU”) expected to benefi t from the 

related business combination for the purposes of impairment testing. A CGU, in accordance with IAS 36, 
Impairment of Assets, is identifi ed as the smallest identifi able group of assets that generates cash infl ows, 
which are largely independent of the cash infl ows from other assets. 

The Company evaluates, on at least an annual basis, the carrying amount of a CGU, which has goodwill 

allocated, for potential impairment. To accomplish this, the Company compares the recoverable amount (which 
is the greater of value-in-use and fair value less costs to sell) of a CGU, to which goodwill was allocated, to its 
carrying amount. If the carrying amount of a CGU was to exceed its recoverable amount, the Company would 
fi rst apply the difference to reduce goodwill and then any further excess is applied to the CGU’s other long-lived 
assets. Assumptions, such as gold price, discount rate, and expenditures underlying the fair value estimates are 
subject to risks and uncertainties.

When an impairment review is undertaken, the recoverable amount is assessed by reference to the higher of 
a “value-in-use” (being the net present value of expected future cash fl ows of the relevant CGU) and “fair value 
less costs to sell”. The best evidence of fair value is the value obtained from an active market or binding sale 
agreement. Where neither exists, fair value is based on the best information available to refl ect the amount the 
Company could receive for the CGU in an arm’s length transaction. This is often estimated using discounted 
cash fl ow techniques. 

Where the recoverable amount is assessed using discounted cash fl ow techniques, the resulting estimates are 

based on detailed mine and/or production plans.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   83

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     83

For value-in-use, recent cost levels are considered together with expected changes in costs that are compatible 
with the current condition of the business. The cash fl ow forecasts are based on best estimates of expected future 
revenues and costs, including the future cash costs of production, sustaining capital expenditure, closure, restoration 
and environmental clean-up. 

Expected future cash fl ows refl ect long term mine plans, which are based on detailed research, analysis and 

iterative modeling to optimize the level of return from investment, output and sequence of extraction.

The mine plan takes account of all relevant characteristics of the ore body, including waste to ore ratios, ore 

grades, haul distances, chemical and metallurgical properties of the ore impacting on process recoveries and 
capacities of processing equipment that can be used. The mine plan is therefore the basis for forecasting production 
output in each future year and for forecasting production costs. 

The Company’s cash fl ow forecasts are based on estimates of future commodity prices which are derived from 

the general consensus gathered from third-party fi nancial analysts’ expectations. These assessments can differ 
from current price levels and are updated periodically. 

The discount rates applied to the future cash fl ow forecasts represent an estimate of the rate the market would 

apply having regard to the time value of money and the risks specifi c to the asset for which the future cash fl ow 
estimates have not been adjusted. The Company’s weighted-average cost of capital is used as a starting point for 
determining the discount rates, with appropriate adjustments for the risk profi le of the countries in which the 
individual CGUs operate.

i. Impairment 
Long term assets are reviewed for impairment if there is any indication that the carrying amount may be impaired. 
In addition, capitalized exploration and evaluation costs are assessed for impairment upon demonstrating 
technical feasibility and commercial viability of a project. Impairment is assessed for an individual asset unless 
the asset does not generate cash infl ows that are independent of those generated from other assets or groups 
of assets, in which case, the individual assets are grouped together into CGUs for impairment testing purposes. 
An impairment loss is recognized for any excess of carrying amount over the recoverable amount.

j. Income taxes
Tax expense for the period comprises current and deferred taxes. Tax is recognized in the income statement, 
except to the extent that it relates to items recognized in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. 
In that case, the related tax impact is also recognized in other comprehensive income, or directly in equity, 
respectively.

Deferred income tax is recognized in the consolidated fi nancial statements, using the liability method, on 
temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities, and their carrying amounts. However, 
deferred income tax is not recognized if it arises from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction 
other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting, nor taxable profi t 
or loss.

Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates, and laws, that have been enacted, or substantively enacted, 
by the balance sheet date, and with rates that are expected to apply at the time when the related deferred income 
tax asset is realized, or the deferred income tax liability is settled.

Deferred income tax assets are recognized only to the extent that it is probable that taxable profi t will be 

available against which the temporary differences can be utilized. 

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and joint 
venture interests, except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled in the group, 
and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current 
tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income tax assets and liabilities relate to income 
taxes levied by the same tax authority on either the same taxable entity or in different taxable entities, and, where 
there is the intent to settle the balance on a net basis.

84     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   84

27/03/12   8:21 AM

k. Provisions
Provisions are recorded when a legal or constructive obligation exists as a result of past events where it is 
probable that an outfl ow of resources embodying economic benefi ts will be required to settle the obligation, and 
a reliable estimate of the amount of the obligation can be made. The amount recognized as a provision is the best 
estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation estimated at the end of each reporting 
period, taking into account the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation. A provision is measured using 
the present value of cash fl ows estimated to settle the present obligation. 

l. Environmental protection and reclamation costs
Closure and restoration costs include the dismantling and demolition of infrastructure and the removal of 
residual materials and remediation of disturbed areas. Estimated closure and restoration costs are provided in 
the accounting period when the obligation arising from the related disturbance occurs based on the net present 
value of estimated future costs. 

The amount of any provision recognized is estimated based on the risk-adjusted costs required to settle 

present obligations, discounted using a pre-tax risk-free discount rate consistent with the time period of expected 
cash fl ows. 

When the liability is initially recorded, a corresponding asset is recognized. At each reporting date the 
restoration and rehabilitation provisions are remeasured in line with changes in discount rates and timing or 
amounts of the costs to be incurred. 

Changes in the liability relating to mine rehabilitation and restoration obligations, which are not the result of 
current production of inventory, are added to or deducted from the related asset. The unwinding of the discount 
is recognized as a fi nance cost in the Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income. 

m. Depreciation and depletion
Mine buildings, plant and equipment used in production and mineral properties are depreciated or depleted 
according to the unit-of-production method over proven and probable ore reserves, or if their estimated useful 
lives are shorter, on a straight-line basis over the useful lives of the particular assets. Under this process, 
depreciation commences when the ore is extracted from the ground. The depreciation charge is allocated to 
inventory throughout the production process from the point at which ore is extracted from the pit until the ore 
is processed into its fi nal form, gold doré. Where a change in estimated recoverable gold ounces contained in 
proven and probable ore reserves is made, adjustments to depreciation are accounted for prospectively.

Mobile equipment and other assets, such as offsite roads, buildings, offi ce furniture and equipment are 
depreciated according to the straight-line method based on estimated useful lives which range from two years 
to seven years, but do not exceed the related estimated mine life based on proven and probable ore reserves.

n. Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing net earnings by the weighted-average number of common 
shares outstanding during the year. The calculation of diluted earnings per share uses the treasury stock method 
which adjusts the weighted-average number of shares for the dilutive effect of common share equivalents, such as 
stock options, performance share units and restricted share units.

o. Revenue recognition
Revenue associated with the sale of gold is recognized when all signifi cant risks and rewards of ownership 
are transferred to the customer. Usually the transfer of risks and rewards associated with ownership occurs 
when the customer has taken delivery and the revenue received, or to be received, in respect of the sale can be 
reliably measured. 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   85

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     85

p. Other operating expenses and income
Other operating items of income and expense that are material and require separate disclosure are classifi ed 
as other operating expenses or income on the face of the income statement. Other operating items of expenses 
and income that are not recurring and that relate to the underlying performance of the business are classifi ed 
as “other operating expenses (income)” and are presented below earnings (loss) from mine operations on the 
statements of earnings and comprehensive income. Other non-operating items of expenses and income that do 
not relate to normal operations are classifi ed as non-operating “other (income) and expenses” and are presented 
below earnings (loss) from operations on the statements of earnings and comprehensive income.

q. Share-based compensation
The Company has fi ve share-based compensation plans: the Share Option Plan, Performance Share Units Plan, 
Annual Performance Share Units Plan, Deferred Share Units Plan, and Restricted Share Unit Plan, which are all 
described in note 25.

Stock Option Plan
Stock options are equity-settled share-based compensation awards. The fair value of stock options at the grant date 
is estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model. Compensation expense is recognized over the stock 
option vesting period based on the number of units estimated to vest. This expense is recognized as share-based 
compensation expense with a corresponding increase in equity. When options are exercised, the proceeds received 
by the Company, together with the fair value amount in contributed surplus, are credited to common shares.

Performance Share Units Plan and Annual Performance Share Units Plan
Under these two plans, performance share units granted by Centerra for eligible employees that are intended to 
be settled in cash are accounted for under the liability method using the Monte Carlo simulated option pricing 
model. Under this method, the fair value of the performance share units is determined, at each reporting period, 
based on the pro-rated number of days the eligible employees are in the employment of the Company as compared 
to the vesting period of each series granted. The consideration paid to employees on exercise of these performance 
share units is recorded as a reduction of the accrued obligation. 

Deferred Share Units Plan
Deferred share units granted to eligible members of the Board of Directors are settled in cash and are therefore 
accounted for under the liability method. The deferred share units vest immediately upon granting. A liability is 
recorded at grant date equal to the fair value of the deferred share units. The liability is adjusted to fair value at 
each reporting period and any resulting adjustment to the accrued obligation is recognized as an expense or, if 
negative, a recovery. The cash paid to eligible members of the Board of Directors on exercise of these deferred 
share units is recorded as a reduction of the accrued obligation.

Restricted Share Units Plan
Restricted share units (“RSU”) granted to eligible members of the Board of Directors and designated offi cers and 
employees of Centerra can be settled in cash or equity at the option of the holder. The restricted share units vest 
immediately upon grant and are redeemed on a date chosen by the participant (subject to certain restrictions as 
set out in the plan). The units granted are accounted for under the liability method whereby a liability is recorded 
at grant date equal to the fair value of the RSU. The liability is adjusted to fair value at each reporting period and 
any resulting adjustment to the accrued obligation is recognized as an expense or, if negative, a recovery. The cash 
paid on exercise of these restricted share units is recorded as a reduction of the accrued obligation.

r. Financial Instruments 
Financial assets are classifi ed as either fi nancial assets at fair value through profi t or loss, loans and receivables, 
held-to-maturity investments, or available-for-sale fi nancial assets, as appropriate. The Company determines 
the classifi cation of its fi nancial assets at initial recognition. Where, as a result of a change in intention or ability, 
it is no longer appropriate to classify an investment as held-to-maturity, the investment is reclassifi ed into the 
available-for-sale category. All fi nancial liabilities are initially recognized at their fair value and designated upon 
inception as fi nancial liabilities measured at fair value through profi t or loss or other fi nancial liabilities.

86     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   86

27/03/12   8:21 AM

Transaction costs associated with fair value through profi t or loss fi nancial assets and fi nancial liabilities 
are expensed as incurred, while transaction costs associated with all other fi nancial assets and other fi nancial 
liabilities are included in the initial carrying amount of the asset or the liability. 

Contracts that were entered into and continue to be held for the purpose of the receipt or delivery of a 

non-fi nancial item in accordance with the Company’s expected purchase, sale or usage requirements fall within 
the exemption available in IFRS, which is known as the ‘normal purchase or sale exemption’. The contracts 
qualifying for normal purchase or sale exemption and the host part of the contracts containing embedded 
derivatives are accounted for as executory contracts. The Company recognizes such contracts in its statement 
of fi nancial position only when one of the parties meets its obligation under the contract to deliver either cash 
or a non-fi nancial asset.

i.  Financial assets

Financial assets at fair value through profi t or loss
Financial assets classifi ed as held-for-trading are included in the category fi nancial assets at fair value 
through profi t or loss. Financial assets are classifi ed as held-for-trading if they are acquired for the purpose 
of selling in the near term. Gains or losses on these items are recognized in profi t or loss.
  The Company’s cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash, reclamation trust fund and short-term 
investments are classifi ed as fi nancial assets measured at fair value through profi t or loss.

Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are non-derivative fi nancial assets with fi xed or determinable payments that are 
not quoted in an active market, do not qualify as trading assets and have not been designated as either 
fair value through profi t or loss or available-for-sale. Such assets are carried at amortized cost using the 
effective interest method. Gains and losses are recognized in profi t or loss when the loans and receivables 
are derecognized or impaired, as well as through the amortization process. 
  The Company’s amounts receivable and long-term receivables are classifi ed as loans and receivables. 
A provision is made where the estimated recoverable amount is lower than the carrying amount. The 
Company believes the carrying values of short- and long-term investments and restricted investments 
approximate their fair values.

ii.  Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities at fair value through profi t or loss
Financial liabilities classifi ed as fair value through profi t or loss includes fi nancial liabilities held-for-
trading and fi nancial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as a fair value through profi t or loss 
fi nancial liability. Derivatives, including separable embedded derivatives are also classifi ed as held for 
trading unless they are designated as effective hedging instruments. Fair value changes on fi nancial 
liabilities classifi ed as fair value through profi t or loss are recognized in profi t or loss.
  The Company utilizes forward foreign exchange contracts to economically hedge certain anticipated 
cash fl ows. Furthermore, the Company enters into “good until cancelled” contract to sell gold at a specifi c 
price; these are short-term contracts that are closed before the end of the reporting date. These contracts 
are classifi ed and accounted for as instruments “held for trading” because they do not qualify as hedges, 
or are not designated as hedges and are classifi ed as fair value through profi t and loss. The contracts are 
recorded at fair value at the reporting date with the resulting gain or loss recognized in the Statements 
of Earnings and Comprehensive Income. 
  The Company’s contracts are classifi ed as fi nancial liabilities at fair value through profi t and loss. 

Other fi nancial liabilities
Borrowings and other fi nancial liabilities, excluding derivative liabilities, are recognized initially at fair 
value, net of transaction costs incurred and are subsequently stated at amortized cost. Any difference 
between the amounts originally received net of transaction costs and the redemption value is recognized in 
profi t or loss, or capitalized if directly attributable to a qualifying asset, over the period to maturity using 
the effective interest method.

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     87

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   87

27/03/12   8:21 AM

  Borrowings and other fi nancial liabilities are classifi ed as current liabilities unless the Company has 
an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the consolidated 
statement of fi nancial position date.
  The Company’s trade and other payables are classifi ed as other fi nancial liabilities.

4. CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS

The preparation of consolidated fi nancial statements in accordance with the requirements of IFRS requires 
management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of the Company’s 
accounting policies, which are described in note 3. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Management’s estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Any changes or 
revisions to estimates and underlying assumptions are recognized in the period in which the estimates are 
revised and in any future periods affected.

The signifi cant estimates and judgments used in the preparation of these consolidated fi nancial statements 

include but are not limited to: 

i.  Share-based Compensation 

Share based compensation costs recognized for the share-based compensation plans are subject to the 
estimate of what the ultimate payout will be using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, Monte Carlo 
simulation model, which are based on signifi cant assumptions such as volatility, expected life, expected 
dividends, risk-free interest rate and expected forfeiture rates.

ii.  Asset retirement obligation 

Amounts recorded for asset retirement obligations and the related accretion expense require the use of 
estimates of the future costs the Company will incur to complete the reclamation and remediation work 
required to comply with existing laws and regulations at each mine site. The Company assesses and revises 
its asset retirement obligations on an annual basis or when new material information become available. 
Actual costs incurred may differ from those amounts estimated. Also, future changes to environmental laws 
and regulations could increase the extent of reclamation and remediation work required to be performed 
by the Company. Increases in future costs could materially impact the amounts charged to operations for 
reclamation and remediation. The provision represents management’s best estimate of the present value 
of the future reclamation and remediation obligation. The actual future expenditures may differ from the 
amounts currently provided.

iii.  Reserves

Certain assumptions are dependent upon reserves, which represent the estimated amount of ore that 
can be economically and legally extracted from the Company’s properties. In order to estimate reserves, 
assumptions are required about a range of geological, technical and economic factors, including quantities, 
grades, production techniques, recovery rates, production costs, transportation costs, commodity demand, 
commodity prices and exchange rates. Estimating the quantity and/or grade of reserves requires the size, 
shape and depth of ore bodies to be determined by analyzing geological data such as drilling samples. 
This process may require complex and diffi cult geological judgments to interpret the data. Economic 
assumptions used to estimate reserves could change from period to period and as additional geological 
data is generated during the course of operations, estimates of reserves may change from period to period. 
Changes in reported reserves may affect the Company’s fi nancial results and fi nancial position. 

iv.  Depreciation, depletion and amortization period for property plant and equipment 

The Corporation makes estimates about the expected useful lives of property plant and equipment and the 
expected residual values of the assets based on the estimated current fair value of the assets, the Company’s 
mine plan and the cash fl ows they generate. Changes to these estimates, which can be signifi cant, could 
be caused by a variety of factors, including future production differing from current forecasts of future 
production, expansion of mineral reserves through exploration activities, differences between estimated 
and actual costs of mining and differences in gold price used in the estimation of mineral reserves.

88     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 88.indd   88

Mar/31/2012   1:34 PM

  Signifi cant judgment is involved in the determination of useful life and residual values for the computation 
of depreciation, depletion and amortization and no assurance can be given that actual useful lives and 
residual values will not differ signifi cantly from current assumptions.

v.  Impairment of long-term assets 

An impairment test is performed by comparing the carrying amount of the asset or CGU to their recoverable 
amount, which is calculated as the higher of an asset’s or CGU’s fair value less costs to sell. Fair value less 
costs to sell is calculated based upon a discounted cash fl ow analysis, which requires management to make 
a number of signifi cant assumptions including assumptions relating to future operating plans, gold prices, 
discount rates, exchange rates and future growth rates. Please see note 11 for additional information.

vi.  Deferred income taxes

The Company operates in a number of tax jurisdictions and is, therefore, required to estimate its income 
taxes in each of these tax jurisdictions in preparing its fi nancial statements. In calculating the income taxes, 
consideration is given to factors such as tax rates in the different jurisdictions, non-deductible expenses, 
valuation allowances, and changes in tax law and management’s expectations of future results. The Company 
estimates deferred income taxes based on temporary differences between the income and losses reported 
in its fi nancial statements and its taxable income and losses as determined under the applicable tax laws. 
The tax effect of these temporary differences is recorded as deferred tax assets or liabilities in the fi nancial 
statements. The calculation of income taxes requires the use of judgment and estimates. If these judgments 
and estimates prove to be inaccurate, future earnings may be materially impacted. 

vii. Inventories of stockpiles ore, in-circuit and Gold doré

In determining mine operating costs recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and 
Comprehensive income, the Company’s management makes estimates of quantities of ore stacked on 
heap leach pads and in process and the recoverable gold in this material to determine the average costs of 
fi nished goods sold during the period. Changes in these estimates can result in a change in mine operating 
costs of future periods and carrying amounts of inventories. 

5. FUTURE CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Recently issued but not adopted accounting guidance are as follows:

IFRS 7 Financial Instruments – Disclosures (“IFRS 7”) was amended by the IASB in October 2010 and provides 

guidance on identifying transfers of fi nancial assets and continuing involvement in transferred assets for 
disclosure purposes. The amendments introduce new disclosure requirements for transfers of fi nancial assets 
including disclosures for fi nancial assets that are not derecognized in their entirety, and for fi nancial assets that 
are derecognized in their entirety but for which continuing involvement is retained. The Company intends to 
adopt IFRS 7 in its fi nancial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2013. The Company does 
not expect IFRS 7 to have a material impact on its fi nancial statements.

The IASB has issued IFRS 9 Financial Instruments (“IFRS 9”) which proposes to replace IAS 39 Financial 

Instruments Recognition and Measurement. The replacement standard has the following signifi cant 
components: establishes two primary measurement categories for fi nancial assets — amortized cost and fair 
value; establishes criteria for classifi cation of fi nancial assets within the measurement category based on 
business model and cash fl ow characteristics; and eliminates existing held to maturity, available-for-sale and 
loans and receivable categories. 

This standard is effective for the Company’s annual year end beginning January 1, 2015 (as amended from 

January 1, 2013 by the IASB in December 2011). The Company will evaluate the impact of the change to its 
consolidated fi nancial statements based on the characteristics of its fi nancial instruments at the time of adoption. 

IFRS 10 Consolidated Financial Statements (“IFRS 10”), which replaces parts of IAS 27, Consolidated and 
Separate Financial Statements (“IAS 27”) and all of SIC-12 Consolidation – Special Purpose Entities, changes the 
defi nition of control which is the determining factor in whether an entity should be consolidated. Under IFRS 10, 
an investor controls an investee when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     89

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   89

27/03/12   8:21 AM

the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee. The Company intends 
to adopt IFRS 10 in its fi nancial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2013. The Company 
does not expect IFRS 10 to have a material impact on its fi nancial statements.

IFRS 11 Joint Arrangements (“IFRS 11”), which replaces IAS 31 Interests in Joint Ventures and SIC-13 Jointly 
Controlled Entities – Non-monetary Contributions by Venturers, requires a venturer to classify its interest in a joint 
arrangement as either a joint operation or a joint venture. For a joint operation, the joint operator will recognize 
its assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and/or its relative share thereof. For a joint venture, the joint venturer 
will account for its interest in the venture’s net assets using the equity method of accounting. The choice to 
proportionally consolidate joint ventures is prohibited. This new standard is applicable for accounting periods 
beginning January 1, 2013. The Company is assessing the impact of IFRS 11 on its results of operations and 
fi nancial position and will adopt IFRS 11 in its fi nancial statements effective from January 1, 2013.

IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities is a new and comprehensive standard on disclosure 

requirements for all forms of interests in other entities, including joint arrangements, associates, special purpose 
vehicles and other off-balance sheet vehicles. The required disclosures aim to provide information in order to 
enable users to evaluate the nature of, and the risks associated with, an entity’s interest in other entities, and the 
effects of those interests on the entity’s fi nancial position, fi nancial performance and cash fl ows. The Company 
intends to adopt IFRS 12 in its fi nancial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 2013. The 
Company does not expect IFRS 12 to have a material impact on its fi nancial statements except additional 
disclosure requirements.

IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement replaces the fair value measurement guidance contained in individual IFRSs 
with a single source of fair value measurement guidance. It defi nes fair value as the price that would be received 
to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the 
measurement date, i.e. an exit price. The standard also establishes a framework for measuring fair value and sets 
out disclosure requirements for fair value measurements to provide information that enables fi nancial statement 
users to assess the methods and inputs used to develop fair value measurements and, for recurring fair value 
measurements that use signifi cant unobservable inputs (Level 3), the effect of the measurements on profi t or loss 
or other comprehensive income. The Company intends to adopt IFRS 13 in its fi nancial statements for the annual 
period beginning on January 1, 2013. The Company does not expect IFRS 13 to have a material impact on its 
fi nancial statements.

IFRIC 20 Stripping Costs in the Production Phase of a Surface Mine sets out the accounting for overburden 

waste removal (stripping) costs in the production phase of a mine. The new interpretation clarifi es when 
production stripping should lead to the recognition of an asset and how that asset should be measured, both 
initially and in subsequent periods. It considers when and how to account separately for benefi ts arising from 
the stripping activity and how to measure these benefi ts both initially and subsequently. The benefi ts include 
usable ore that can be used to produce inventory and improved access to further quantities of material that will 
be mined in future periods. It prescribes that the costs of stripping activity be accounted for in accordance with 
the principles of IAS 2 Inventories to the extent that the benefi t from the stripping activity is realized in the form 
of inventory produced. On the other hand, the costs of stripping activity which provides a benefi t in the form of 
improved access to ore is recognized as a non-current ‘stripping activity asset’ when specifi ed criteria are met. 
The Company intends to adopt IFRS 13 in its fi nancial statements for the annual period beginning on January 1, 
2013. The Company does not expect IFRIC 20 to have a material impact on its fi nancial statements.

6. RESTRICTED CASH 

Restricted cash of $0.2 million (December 31, 2010–$0.8 million) consists of cash deposited by Boroo in an escrow 
bank account, created in compliance with a memorandum of understanding agreed with the Ministry of Health of 
Mongolia. The cash deposited are expected to be used to fund the design and construction of a maternity hospital 
in Ulaanbaatar. Further funding and release of the funds is pursuant to the terms of a Defi nitive Agreement signed 
April 22, 2011 between Boroo, CGM and the Ministry of Health of Mongolia.

90     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   90

27/03/12   8:21 AM

7. AMOUNTS RECEIVABLE 

(Thousands of US$) 

Gold sales receivable from related party (note 27) 
Gold sales receivable from third party 
Other receivables 

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$ 

$ 

47,366 
– 
9,383 
56,749 

$ 

88,997 
3,760 
7,805 
$  100,562 

$ 

$ 

37,861
823
5,597
44,281

The aging of gross amounts receivable at each reporting date was as follows:

(Thousands of US$) 

Less than 1 month 
1 to 3 months 
Over 3 months 

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

$ 

$ 

49,817 
5,642 
1,290 
56,749 

$ 

94,203 
5,086 
1,273 
$  100,562 

January 1
2010

$  40,650
3,631
–
44,281

$ 

The Company has not recorded any allowance for credit losses for the periods presented above.

8. INVENTORIES

(Thousands of US$) 

Stockpiles (a) 
Gold in-circuit 
Heap leach in-circuit 
Gold doré 
Total inventory of stockpiles and metal 
Supplies (net of provision for obsolescence) 

Less: Long-term inventory (heap leach stockpiles) 
Total Inventories – current portion 

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$  105,635 
16,343 
3,359 
10,645 
  135,982 
  156,136 
  292,118 
(12,174) 
$  279,944 

$ 

$ 

64,523 
6,881 
3,687 
6,023 
81,114 
113,396 
194,510 
(12,877) 
181,633 

$ 

$ 

50,234
5,045
4,908
8,818
69,005
105,937
174,942
(23,120)
151,822

(a) During the fi rst half of 2011, the Company recorded an adjustment of $6.5 million to reverse the write down previously incurred on sub-grade ore stockpiles at Kumtor, as the 
market and operational conditions causing the write down had improved. The reversal of the write down increased inventory and decreased cost of sales. As at December 31, 
2011, $5.2 million of the reversed amount remained in inventory of stockpiled ore.

The amount of the provision for obsolescence of mine operating supplies compared to net realizable value, as 
presented in the table below, increased by $0.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2011 (December 31, 2010 
– $0.5 million and January 1, 2010 – $0.7 million). 

Movements in the provision for obsolescence are recognized as expense. This expense is included in cost of 

sales which is disclosed in note 17.

(Thousands of US$) 

Total inventories 
Less: provision for obsolescence 
Total Inventories 

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$  282,145 
(2,201) 
$  279,944 

$ 

$ 

182,937 
(1,304) 
181,633 

$  152,620
(798)
151,822

$ 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   91

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     91

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

The following is a summary of the carrying value of property, plant and equipment:

(Thousands of US$) 

Cost
Balance Jan 1, 2010 
Additions 
Disposals 
Reclassifi cation 
Balance Dec 31, 2010 
Additions 
Disposals 
Reclassifi cation 
Balance Dec 31, 2011 

Accumulated depreciation
Balance Jan 1, 2010 
Charge for the year 
Disposals 
Reclassifi cation 
Balance Dec 31, 2010 
Charge for the year 
Disposals 
Reclassifi cation 
Balance Dec 31, 2011 

Net book value
Balance Jan 1, 2010 
Balance Dec 31, 2010 
Balance Dec 31, 2011 

Mine 
buildings 

Plant and 
equipment 

Mineral 
properties 

  Capitalized 
stripping 
costs 

Mobile 
Equipment 

  Construction
in progress
(“CIP”) 

$  47,318 
  6,240 
– 
357 
  53,915 
310 
(389) 
– 
$  53,836 

$  28,372 
  3,543 
– 
340 
  32,255 
  2,367 
(384) 
– 
$  34,238 

$  295,187 
15,071 
(990) 
1,651 
  310,919 
11,979 
(1,049) 
926 
$  322,775 

$  184,513 
17,557 
(185) 
(5,059) 
  196,826 
12,331 
(701) 
– 
$ 208,456 

$ 160,645 
  10,425 
(898) 
(985) 
  169,187 
  18,512 
– 
(265) 
$  187,434 

$ 108,081 
  9,034 
(897) 
139 
  116,357 
7,556 
(3) 
– 
$ 123,910 

$  56,700 
– 
– 
14,651 
  71,351 
  44,847 
– 
– 
$  116,198 

$  31,066 
9,206 
– 
– 
  40,272 
  35,475 
– 
– 
$  75,747 

$  168,220 
  103,252 
  (18,924) 
12,238 
  264,786 
  102,426 
  (20,588) 
303 
$  346,927 

$  81,794 
  46,888 
  (18,349) 
4,580 
  114,913 
  78,304 
  (20,008) 
– 
$  173,209 

$  88,006 
  90,017 
(627) 
  (27,912) 
  149,484 
  30,415 
(394) 
(964) 
$  178,541 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

Total

$  816,076
  225,005
(21,439)
–
  1,019,642
  208,489
(22,420)
–
$  1,205,711

$  433,826
86,228
(19,431)
–
  500,623
136,033
(21,096)
–
$  615,560

$  18,946 
  21,660 
$  19,598 

$  110,674 
  114,093 
$  114,319 

$  52,564 
  52,830 
$  63,524 

$  25,634 
  31,079 
$  40,451 

$  86,426 
  149,873 
$  173,718 

$  88,006 
  149,484 
$  178,541 

$  382,250
  519,019
$  590,151

10. JOINTLY-CONTROLLED INTERESTS

The Company proportionately consolidates its fi fty percent interest in the Kara Beldyr Russian joint venture and 
fi fty percent interest in the Öksüt Turkish joint venture which it jointly controls. Included in the consolidated 
fi nancial statements are the following items that represent the Company’s interests in the assets and liabilities 
and expenses of these joint ventures: 

(Thousands of US$) 

January 1, 2010 
December 31, 2010 
December 31, 2011 

Current  Non-current 
assets 

assets 

Current
liabilities 

Expenses

$ 
$ 
$ 

– 
192 
151 

$ 
$ 
$ 

– 
136 
246 

$ 
$ 
$ 

– 
(4) 
(129) 

$ 
$ 
$ 

–
206
1,470

92     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   92

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
11. GOODWILL 

The Company has two cash-generating units (“CGU”), one in the Kyrgyz Republic and one in Mongolia, of 
which only the Kyrgyz CGU carries goodwill. The carrying value of goodwill for the Kyrgyz Republic remained 
unchanged at $129.7 million over the reporting periods ended December 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 
January 1, 2010. 

Annual Test as at September 1, 2011:
The Company performed its annual test for goodwill impairment as at September 1, 2011 in accordance with its 
policy described in note 3. 

In the absence of an active sales market for the Kyrgyz operations, the Company has applied the fair value less 
cost to sell methodology to determine the recoverable amount of the Kyrgyz CGU in testing for impairment. The 
net asset value (“NAV”) of the Kyrgyz CGU is determined based on a discounted cash fl ow analysis, with the 
associated recoverable amount determined using a market multiple of the NAV as public gold companies typically 
trade at a market capitalization that is based on a multiple of their underlying NAV. As an industry participant 
would include the future use, including any expansion projects over the life-of-mine (LOM) in determining 
fair value, the Company has included future conversion of resources into production and the associated capital 
and development expenditure in the discounted cash fl ow estimates. As part of the Company’s annual reserve 
estimation process, each CGU updates its LOM plan which optimizes the production of its proven and probable 
reserves. The LOM is enhanced with the inclusion of resource conversion based on management’s best estimate 
of convertibility. The resulting valuation model summarizes the cash fl ows which management expects to 
generate over the mine’s life, using various business and economic assumptions. 

Key assumptions used in building this cash fl ow model and for calculating the Kyrgyz CGU present value used 

in this impairment test were as follows:

i.  For the September 1, 2011 impairment test, gold price per ounce used was $1,700 per ounce for the balance 
of 2011, $1,545 per ounce for 2012, $1,450 per ounce for 2013, $1,300 per ounce for 2014 and $1,100 per 
ounce for 2015 onwards. Management determined gold prices based on the most recent market commodity 
price forecasts consensus up to September 1, 2011 from a number of recognized fi nancial analysts.

For the September 1, 2010 impairment test, gold price per ounce used was $1,181 per ounce for the 

balance of 2010, $1,206 per ounce for 2011, $1,157 per ounce for 2012 and $1,027 per ounce for 2013, 
$1,018 per ounce for 2014, $1,003 per ounce for 2015 and $950 per ounce for 2016.

ii.  Total production over the life of the Kumtor mine of 6.9 million ounces (2010 – 6.7 million ounces) used in 
the cash fl ow model as at the date of the evaluation (September 1, 2011), includes 2.4 million ounces (2010 
– 2.6 million ounces) of converted resources. Management expect that the Kyrgyz CGU to continue mining 
and processing ore (including converted resources) through 2024. Management determined its planned 
production profi le and total life of mine production based on its development activity to date and its 
current mine and processing plans.

iii.  The real after tax discount rate of 11.5% (2010 – 11.6%) based on the Company’s estimated weighted-

average cost of capital (as confi rmed with third party) giving consideration to risks associated with the 
Kyrgyz cash fl ows.

Impact of changes to key assumptions
The fair value of the Kyrgyz CGU was well in excess of its carrying value. Based on sensitivity analysis, no 
reasonable change in assumptions would cause the carrying amount of the CGU to exceed its recoverable amount. 
As a result, management concluded that current circumstances did not indicate that the carrying value of the 

Kyrgyz reporting unit exceeded its fair value and thus no impairment of its goodwill was required at this time.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   93

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     93

12. LONG-TERM RECEIVABLES AND OTHER

(Thousands of US$) 

Reclamation trust fund (note 16) 
Other long term receivables 
Deferred fi nancing fees (note 15) 
Other assets (a) 
Total   

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$ 

$ 

9,081 
4 
2,474 
13,115 
24,674 

$  7,448 
46 
  3,100 
  6,705 
$ 17,299 

$ 

$ 

6,443
111
–
–
6,554

(a) Includes $12.9 million (December 31, 2010–$4.3 million) of cash deposited for the purchase of mobile equipment.

13. ACCOUNTS PAYABLE AND ACCRUED LIABILITIES 

(Thousands of US$) 

Trade creditors and accruals 
Liability for share-based compensation 
Amount payable to related parties 
Total   

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

$ 

$ 

34,411 
41,974 
– 
76,385 

$ 

$ 

29,428 
41,481 
– 
70,909 

January 1
2010

$ 

$ 

31,420
17,503
175
49,098

14. TAXES 
a. Revenue-Based Taxes – Kumtor
Revenue-based taxes are payable to the Kyrgyz Government under the Restated Investment Agreement which 
received the approval of the Kyrgyz parliament on April 30, 2009.

Under the Restated Investment Agreement, taxes are imposed at a rate of 13% of gross revenue. In addition, 
effective January 1, 2009, a contribution of 1% of gross revenue is made to the Issyk-Kul Oblast Development Fund. 
During the period ended December 31, 2011, the 13% revenue-based tax expense recorded by Kumtor was 

$122.3 million ($91.6 million in 2010), while the Issyk-Kul Oblast Development Fund of 1% of gross revenue totalled 
$9.4 million ($7.0 million in 2010).

As at December 31, 2011, $15.2 million revenue-based tax is payable to the Kyrgyz Government (December 31, 

2010 – $25.5 million and January 1, 2010 – $29.4 million). 

At the request of the Kyrgyz Government, Kumtor provided an advance of taxes of $2 million at December 31, 
2011, which will be applied against the revenue-based taxes otherwise payable in January 2012. Taxes were also 
advanced at the request of the Kyrgyz Government in the third quarter of 2010 totalling $11 million. This advance 
was outstanding as at December 31, 2010 and was fully applied against Kumtor’s 2010 revenue-based tax obligation 
in January 2011.

b. Income Tax Expense 

(Thousands of US$) 

Current income tax 
Deferred income tax 
Total income tax expense 

2011 

2,856 
5,274 
8,130 

$ 

$ 

2010

16,398
(11,971)
4,427

$ 

$ 

No entities, other than those in the Mongolian segment, recorded an income tax expense during the years ended 
December 31, 2011 and December 31, 2010. 

94     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 94.indd   94

Mar/31/2012   1:35 PM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The provision for income tax differs from the amount that would arise using the weighted average tax rate 

applicable to profi ts of the consolidated entities as follows:

(Thousands of US$) 

Profi t before income tax 
Income tax calculated at domestic tax rates applicable to profi ts in the respective countries 
Income tax effects of:
  Difference between Canadian rate and rates applicable to subsidiaries in other countries 
  Change in unrecognized deductible temporary differences 

Impact of foreign currency movements 

  Non-deductible employee costs 
  Non-deductible inter-company dividend 
  Other non-deductible expenses or non-taxable items 
Income Tax Expense 

2011 

2010

$  379,008 
  107,070 

$  326,718
101,283

  (121,621) 
11,555 
2,032 
1,200 
– 
7,894 
8,130 

$ 

(93,955)
(5,782)
(11,575)
1,639
6,512
6,305
4,427

$ 

c. Deferred Income Tax
The signifi cant components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

(Thousands of US$) 

Deferred income tax assets:
Inventory 
Provisions – asset retirement obligation 
Total deferred tax assets 

Deferred income tax liabilities:
Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 
Property plant and equipment 
Other  
Total deferred tax liabilities 

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$ 

2,487 
2,682 
5,169 

$ 

1,452 
2,089 
3,541 

$ 

696
2,599
3,295

(685) 
(930) 
(5,229) 
(222) 
(7,066) 

– 
– 
(174) 
– 
(174) 

(2,509)
(5,825)
(3,568)
(31)
(11,933)

Net deferred income tax assets/(liabilities) 

$ 

(1,897) 

$ 

3,367 

$ 

(8,638)

The company had the following positions in respect of which no deferred income tax asset has been recognized:

(Thousands of US$) 

December 31, 2011
Expiring within one to 

fi ve years 

Expiring after fi ve years 
No expiry date 

(Thousands of US$) 

December 31, 2010
Expiring within one to 

fi ve years 

Expiring after fi ve years 
No expiry date 

Tax losses- 
income 

Tax losses- 
Capital 

Non
  Deductibles
Reserves 

Exploration 

$ 

15,889 
  142,499 
386 
$  158,774 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
31,629 
31,629 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
23,433 
23,433 

$ 

– 
– 
  43,443 
$  43,443 

Tax losses- 
income 

Tax losses- 
Capital 

Exploration 

Non
Deductibles
Reserves 

$ 

14,805 
  106,574 
523 
121,902 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
31,994 
31,994 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
19,693 
19,693 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
37,276 
37,276 

Other 

Total

– 
– 
6,854 
6,854 

$ 

15,889
  142,499
  105,745
$  264,133

Other 

Total

– 
– 
8,927 
8,927 

$ 

14,805
  106,574
98,413
$  219,792

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     95

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   95

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Thousands of US$) 

January 1, 2010
Expiring within one to 

fi ve years 

Expiring after fi ve years 
No expiry date 

Tax losses- 
income 

Tax losses- 
Capital 

Exploration 

Non
Deductibles
Reserves 

Other 

Total

$ 

1,311 
  118,044 
428 
119,783 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
30,405 
30,405 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
64,189 
64,189 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
4,414 
4,414 

$ 

1,311
  118,044
99,436
$  218,791

No deferred tax liabilities have been recognized in respect of the aggregate amount of $1,319 million ($999 million 
as at December 31, 2010) of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries and 
interests in joint ventures, as the Company controls the timing and circumstances of the reversal of these 
differences, the occurrence of which is not anticipated to reverse in the foreseeable future. 

15. BORROWINGS 

On November 16, 2010 the Company entered into a three-year $150 million revolving credit facility (the “Facility”) 
with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (“EBRD”) as sole lender. On April 15, 2011, the 
Company, completed and satisfi ed all the conditions precedent related to the Facility. 

The Facility is for general corporate purposes, permitted acquisitions, working capital, capital expenditures 

and intercompany loans and/or capital contributions to fi nance the development of the Company’s existing 
properties in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia, and for future investments in other countries where EBRD 
operates.

The terms of the Facility require the Company to pledge certain mobile equipment at Kumtor as security and 

maintain compliance with specifi ed covenants including fi nancial covenants. The Company was in compliance 
with the covenants for the year ended December 31, 2011 and for the period from November 16, 2010 through the 
remainder of 2010.

Amounts drawn on the Facility bear interest at LIBOR plus 2.9%, payable in arrears at the end of each interest 
period of either three or six months. A commitment (standby) fee is also payable, semi-annually in arrears, on the 
undrawn amount of the Facility. A fee of 0.75% is applied to the undrawn portion of the Facility where less than 
50% of the facility amount is drawn, or 0.50% where at least 50% of the facility amount is drawn.

For the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company expensed commitment fees of $0.9 million. As at 

December 31, 2011, the Facility remained undrawn. 

16. PROVISIONS 
Asset Retirement Obligations 

(Thousands of US$) 

Kumtor gold mine 
Boroo gold mine 

Less: current portion 
Total long-term provisions 

96     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$ 

$ 

30,378 
25,247 
55,625 
(1,848) 
53,777 

$ 

$ 

22,088 
18,345 
40,433 
(9,553) 
30,880 

$ 

$ 

17,927
16,018
33,945
(7,399)
26,546

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   96

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Centerra’s estimates of future asset retirement obligations are based on reclamation standards that meet 
regulatory requirements. Elements of uncertainty in estimating these amounts include potential changes in 
regulatory requirements, reclamation plans and cost estimates, discount rates and timing of expected 
expenditures.

The Company estimates its total undiscounted future decommissioning and reclamation costs at December 31, 
2011 to be $62.9 million (December 31, 2010 – $48.5 million and January 1, 2010 – $42.8 million). The following is 
a summary of the key assumptions on which the carrying amount of the asset retirement obligations is based:

a.  Expected timing of payment of the cash fl ows is based on the LOM plans. 
b. 

 Ongoing reclamation spending continues at Boroo, while at Kumtor reclamation is expected to start at the 
end of the mine life in 2021.
 Risk-free discount rates of 2% at Kumtor and 0.6% at Boroo at December 31, 2011 (December 31, 2010 
– 3.18% at Kumtor and 2.0% at Boroo and January 1, 2010 – 3.85% at Kumtor and 3.39% at Boroo).

c. 

The following is a reconciliation of the total discounted liability for asset retirement obligations:

(Thousands of US$) 

Balance at January 1 
Liabilities paid 
Revisions in estimated timing and amount of cash fl ows 
Impact of revisions in estimated timing and amount of cash fl ows recorded in earnings 
Gain on liabilities incurred 
Accretion expense 

Less: current portion 
Balance at December 31 

2011 

$  40,433 
(2,446) 
15,942 
494 
– 
1,202 
55,625 
(1,848) 
53,777 

$ 

2010

33,945
(1,626)
7,070
234
(423)
1,233
40,433
(9,553)
30,880

$ 

$ 

In 1998, a Reclamation Trust Fund was established to cover the future costs of reclamation at the Kumtor gold 
mine, net of salvage values. This restricted cash is funded on the units of production method, annually in arrears, 
over the life of the mine and on December 31, 2011 was $9.1 million (December 31, 2010 – $7.5 million and 
January 1, 2010 – $6.4 million) (note 12).

In December 2011, the Company revised the closure plan at Boroo with effect of deferring the reclamation 
spending at the site from 2015 to 2018 and updated the closure cost plans for Kumtor and Boroo. As a result of 
deferring the reclamation spending, decrease in discount rate and an update to the closure cost plan, the present 
value of the obligation at Boroo increased by $8.9 million with an offsetting increase in reclamation asset. A similar 
update to Kumtor’s closure cost plan and decrease in discount rate resulted in an increase to the obligation of 
$7.5 million, with $0.5 million of the increase charged to earnings and $7.0 million recorded as an increase in the 
reclamation asset, included as part of property plant and equipment. 

In December 2010, the Company revised the estimated mine life at Kumtor with the effect of deferring the 
reclamation spending at the site, and updated the discount rate and the closure cost plans for Kumtor and Boroo. 
As a result of the increase in estimated mine life, decrease in discount rate and update to closure plan the present 
value of the obligation at Kumtor was increased by $3.4 million, with $0.2 million of the increase charged to 
earnings and $3.2 million recorded as an increase in the reclamation asset, included as part of property plant and 
equipment. A similar update to Boroo’s closure cost plan resulted in an increase to the obligation of $3.9 million 
with an offsetting increase in the reclamation asset.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   97

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     97

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
17. COST OF SALES 

(Thousands of US$) 

Operating costs:

Salaries and benefi ts (a) 
Share-based compensation 

  Consumables 
  Third party services 
  Other operating costs 
  Royalties, levies & production taxes 
Changes in inventories and impairment 

Inventories obsolescence (note 8) 
Depreciation, depletion and amortization 

2011 

2010

$ 

78,588 
1,932 
  212,240 
5,055 
16,221 
4,321 
(35,336) 
  283,021 
897 
98,377 
$  382,295 

$ 

48,191
6,466
  194,490
5,660
14,377
7,579
(10,670)
  266,093
506
75,591
$  342,190

(a) Included in the amounts shown for the year ended December 31, 2011, is $14.1 million recorded for the settlement of the Kyrgyz Social Fund assessment between Kumtor and the 
Kyrgyz Government, in respect of the base wages of Kumtor’s national employees, for the fi rst nine months of 2011 and the full year of 2010. In late 2010, the Social Fund notifi ed 
the Company of its position that the Company should pay contributions to the Social Fund not only in respect of base wages but also in respect of the premium compensation that 
the Company is required to pay employees for work at high-altitude. As a result of the revised basis for calculation of the Company’s social fund contributions including the high 
altitude premium, an additional $2.3 million was paid in the fourth quarter of 2011 as the Company contributions to the Social Fund. 

18. MINE STANDBY COSTS

Over a period of 11 days ended May 28, 2011, the Company’s SAG mill plant at Boroo was temporarily shutdown 
due to a failure in the SAG mill exciter. The milling and production processes were stopped during the shutdown. 
The Company incurred and expensed $0.2 million in labour, maintenance and mine support costs directly as a 
result of the shutdown at Boroo for the year ended December 31, 2011.

Over a period of 10 days ended October 10, 2010 the Company’s mining operations at Kumtor were temporarily 
suspended due to a labour dispute initiated by unionized workers of the Kumtor Operating Company. The Company 
incurred and expensed $1.3 million in labour, maintenance and mine support costs directly as a result of the 
labour dispute at Kumtor for the year ended December 31, 2010.

19. OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

(Thousands of US$) 

Social development contributions (a) 
Claim settlement (b) 
Net Alluvial production (income) expenses (c) 
Project care and maintenance (d) 

2011 

12,641 
2,587 
(129) 
372 
15,471 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

2010

8,713
–
(726)
–
7,987

(a) During the year ended December 31, 2011, the Company, through its subsidiary Kumtor, contributed $10 million to be used for the refurbishment of schools through the 
subsidiary’s Community Development and Initiatives program in the Kyrgyz Republic. During the year ended December 31, 2010, the Company recorded $6.4 million 
representing the estimated amount to settle a constructive obligation for the construction and equipping of a maternity hospital in Ulaanbaatar through the Boroo Community 
Development and Initiatives program in Mongolia.

(b) The Company through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Boroo Gold LLC, which owns the Boroo project, accrued $2.6 million relating to the settlement of a claim for compensation 
that it received from the Mongolian General Department of Specialized Inspection (“SSIA”) in October 2009 following the June 2009 inspection at the Boroo project. The claim 
related to certain mineral reserves, including state alluvial reserves covered by the Boroo project licenses that are recorded in the Mongolian state reserves registry, but for which 
there are no or incomplete records or reports of mining activity. 

(c) Beginning in 2009, the Company engaged a third party to mine and process an alluvial deposit located on the Boroo mining concession. During 2011, $0.1 million (2010 – 

$0.7 million) was received as the Company’s share of the net income from the mining, processing and sale of gold doré from the alluvial deposit.

(d) Care and maintenance costs of $0.4 million were recorded in 2011 to maintain the site at the Gatsuurt development project. See note 26 for further details.

98     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   98

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
20. EXPLORATION AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT COSTS 

(Thousands of US$) 

Exploration:
  Mine sites exploration 
  Advanced projects 
  Generative exploration and other projects 
  Exploration administration 
Total exploration 
Business development 
Total   

21. CORPORATE ADMINISTRATION

(Thousands of US$) 

Administration and offi ce (a) 
Professional fees 
Salaries and benefi ts 
Share-based compensation (b) 
Depreciation and amortization 
Total   

2011 

2010

$ 

12,715 
12,889 
10,595 
3,399 
39,598 
3,296 
$  42,894 

2011 

$ 

7,876 
4,835 
14,396 
17,333 
462 
$  44,902 

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

11,505
7,442
10,188
2,161
31,296
1,150
32,446

2010

4,164
7,043
11,881
28,686
496
52,270

(a) Includes administrative and offi ce costs for the Toronto corporate offi ce and other corporate entities (holding companies). 
(b) Share-based compensation includes a non-cash item for stock option amortization expenses, of $1.8 million and $1.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2011 and 2010, 

respectively. 

22. OTHER (INCOME) AND EXPENSES

(Thousands of US$) 

Interest income 
Loss on disposal of assets 
Bank charges 
Foreign exchange gain 
Other (income)/expenses 
Net 

23. FINANCE COSTS

(Thousands of US$) 

Revolving credit facility:
  Amortization of deferred costs 
  Commitment fees  
  Other revolving credit facility costs  
Accretion expense and impact of revisions on provision for reclamation (note 16) 

2011 

(1,175) 
484 
71 
(92) 
(344) 
(1,056) 

$ 

$ 

2010

(721)
1,127
86
(171)
269
590 

2011 

2010

772 
900 
177 
1,696 
3,545 

$ 

$ 

–
–
–
1,467
1,467

$ 

$ 

$ 

$ 

24. DISPOSAL OF INTEREST IN REN PROPERTY

On July 2, 2010, the Company closed the sale of its interest in the REN exploration project to Homestake Mining 
Company of California (a subsidiary of Barrick Gold Corporation) for gross cash proceeds of $35.2 million 
resulting in a net gain of $34.9 million.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   99

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     99

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
25. SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
a. Share Capital
Centerra is authorized to issue an unlimited number of common shares, class A non-voting shares and preference 
shares with no par value.

b. Earnings per Share 
Basic net earnings per share is computed by dividing the net earnings applicable to common shares by the 
weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year.

Diluted net earnings per share is computed by dividing the net earnings applicable to common shares by the 

weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the year, plus the effects of dilutive common 
share equivalents such as stock options, performance share units and restricted share units. Diluted net earnings 
per share is calculated using the treasury method, where the exercise of stock options, performance share units 
and restricted share units are assumed to be at the beginning of the period, and the proceeds from the exercise 
of stock options, performance share units and restricted share units and the amount of compensation expense 
measured but not yet recognized in income are assumed to be used to purchase common shares of the Company 
at the average market price during the period. The incremental number of common shares (the difference 
between the number of shares assumed issued and the number of shares assumed purchased) is included in the 
denominator of the diluted earnings per share computation.

Common share equivalents are not included in the computation of diluted net earnings per share in years 
when net losses are recorded or if the assumed conversion effect of the common share equivalents results in the 
increase in earnings per share above the basic level, given that they are anti-dilutive.

Basic and diluted earnings per share computation: 

(Thousands of US$) 

Net earnings attributable to shareholders’ 
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (thousands) 
Effect of potential dilutive securities:

Stock options (thousands) 

  Restricted share units (thousands) 
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding (thousands) 

Basic and diluted earnings per common share 

2011 

2010

$  370,878 
  236,088 

$  322,291
  235,488

248 
18 
  236,354 

374
–
  235,862

$ 

1.57 

$ 

1.37

Excluded from the 2011 calculation of diluted earnings per share were 215,107 outstanding options (2010 – 197,763) 
where the exercise prices of the options were greater than the average market price of the Company’s ordinary 
shares for the year. In 2011 1,671,008 performance share units (2010 – 1,957,935) were excluded from the 
calculation of diluted earnings per share as the effect of the assumed potential conversion of the units to equity 
would have increased the earnings per share amount.

c. Dividends
Dividends are declared in Canadian dollars and paid in Canadian dollars. The details of dividends distribution in 
2011 and 2010 are as follows:

Paid dividends recorded in U.S. dollars (Thousands of US$) 
Dividends declared (Canadian Dollar per share amount) 
Special Dividends declared (Canadian Dollar per share amount) 

2011 

99,322 
0.10 
0.30 
0.40 

$ 

$ 

2010

13,620
0.06
–
0.06

$ 

$ 

100     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   100

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
d. Share-Based Compensation 
The impact of Stock-Based Compensation is summarized as follows:

Number
outstanding 

Expense/(Income) 

Liability

(Millions of US$ except as indicated) 

Dec 31/11 

Dec 31/11 

Dec 31/10 

Dec 31/11 

Dec 31/10 

Jan 1/10

(i)  Centerra stock options 
(ii)  Centerra – PSU (1) 
(iii) Centerra annual – PSU (2) 
(iv)  Deferred share units 
(v)  Restricted share units 
(vi)  Cameco stock options 

752,448 
1,314,134 
77,013 
354,516 
49,659 
– 

$ 

1.8 
  15.2 
1.9 
  (0.7) 
  0.9 
– 
$  19.1 

$ 

1.1 
  23.2 
  6.5 
  4.4 
– 
– 
$  35.2 

$ 

– 
  33.0 
1.9 
  6.2 
  0.9 
– 
$  42.0 

$ 

– 
  28.4 
  6.2 
  6.9 
– 
– 
$  41.5 

$ 

–
  6.1
  6.3
  3.8
–
1.3 (3)

$  17.5

(1)  Centerra performance share units
(2) Centerra Annual performance share units
(3) Amount paid in 2010 on exercise of options. The Cameco stock option plan no longer applies to Company employees.

(i)  Stock Options

Centerra has established a stock option plan under which options to purchase common shares may be 
granted to offi cers and employees of the Company. Options granted under the plan have an exercise price 
of not less than the weighted average trading price of the common shares where they are listed for the 
fi ve trading days prior to the date of the grant. The options issued prior to 2006 vest over fi ve years while 
options issued in or after 2006 vest over 3 years, except for the 2010 grant which vests 50% on the fi rst 
anniversary and the remaining 50% on the second anniversary. All issued options expire after eight years 
from the date granted. Options may be granted with a related share appreciation right. In these circumstances, 
the participant can either elect to receive shares by exercising the stock option or to receive payment in 
cash equal to the equivalent gain in the stock price. Centerra, at its discretion, can require any holder who 
has exercised a share appreciation right to exercise their option instead, or can elect to satisfy the cash 
amount owing upon exercise of a share appreciation right with common shares. There are currently no 
stock option grants with a share appreciation right outstanding.
  A maximum of 18,000,000 common shares are available for issuance upon the exercise of options 
granted under the plan. Certain restrictions on grants will apply, including that the maximum number 
of shares that may be granted to any individual within a 12-month period will not exceed 5% of the 
outstanding common shares.

Average exercise award price for options granted in the year (Cdn $/share) 
Weighted exercise average price on outstanding options (Cdn $/share) 

Centerra’s stock options transactions during the year were as follows:

December 31  December 31
2010

2011 

$ 
$ 

18.42 
12.31 

$ 
$ 

14.37
7.45

Balance, January 1, 
Granted 
Exercised 
Balance, December 31, 

2011 

2010

Number of 
Options 

903,986 
318,106 
(469,644) 
752,448 

Weighted 
Average 
exercise 
Price – Cdn$ 

$  7.45 
18.42 
(7.09) 
12.31 

Weighted
Average
Number of 
Options 

1,816,155 
100,000 
(1,012,169) 
903,986 

Exercise
Price – Cdn$

6.58
14.37
(6.58)
7.45

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   101

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     101

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  The Black-Scholes model was developed for use in estimating the fair value of stock options that have 
no vesting restrictions. The model requires the use of subjective assumptions, including expected stock-
price volatility; historical data has been considered in setting the assumptions. In determining the fair 
value of these employee stock options, the following weighted average assumptions were used for the 
series issued in 2011:
• 

 On March 7, 2011, Centerra granted 308,999 stock options at a strike price of Cdn $18.31 per share. 
The fair value of the stock options was determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model, assuming 
a weighted average expected life of 3-years, 75.66% historical Company’s volatility, dividend yield of 
0.35% and a risk-free rate of return of 2.09%. The resulting weighted average fair value per option 
granted was Cdn $8.70. The estimated fair value of the options is expensed over the graded vesting 
period for each tranche, which range from 1 year to 3 years.
 On September 14, 2011, Centerra granted 9,107 stock options at a strike price of Cdn $22.28 per share. 
The fair value of the stock options was determined using the Black-Scholes valuation model, assuming 
a weighted average expected life of 3-years, 60.87% volatility, dividend yield of 0.30% and a risk-free 
rate of return of 1.19%. The resulting weighted average fair value per option granted was Cdn $8.87. 
The estimated fair value of the options is expensed over the graded vesting period for each tranche, 
which range from 1 year to 3 years.
 The estimated fair value of the options is expensed over the graded vesting period for each tranche, 
which range from 1 year to 3 years. The resulting fair value of the options granted in 2011 was 
$2.7 million (2010 – $0.5 million).

• 

• 

The terms of the options outstanding at December 31, 2011 are as follows:

Award Date 

2008 
2009 
2010 
2011 
2011 

Award Price 

$14.29 (Cdn) 
$4.81 (Cdn) 
$14.37 (Cdn) 
$18.31 (Cdn) 
$22.28 (Cdn) 

Expiry Date 

March 7, 2016 
February 17, 2017 

August 19, 2018 (1) 
March 6, 2019 
September 13, 2019 

Number options 
outstanding 

Number options
vested

38,030 
296,312 
100,000 
308,999 
9,107 
752,448 

38,030
94,703
50,000
–
–
182,733

(1)  The 2010 grant carries a different vesting schedule whereby 50% vests on the fi rst anniversary and the remaining 50% vest on the second anniversary.

In 2011, $1.8 million of compensation expense was recorded on this plan ($1.1 million in 2010).

(ii)  Performance share unit plan

Centerra has established a performance share unit plan for employees and offi cers of the Company. A 
performance share unit represents the right to receive the cash equivalent of a common share or, at the 
Company’s option, a common share purchased on the market. Performance share units issued before 2010 
vest two years after December 31 of the year in which they were granted. Performance share units granted 
in 2010 and thereafter vest 50% at the end of the year after grant and the remaining 50% the following 
year. The number of units which will vest is determined based on Centerra’s total return performance 
(based on the preceding sixty-one trading days weighted average share price) relative to the S&P/TSX 
Global Gold Index Total Return Index Value during the applicable period. The number of units that vest 
is determined by multiplying the number of units granted to the participant by the adjustment factor, 
which can be up to 1.5 for units granted before 2010 or up to 2.0 for units granted in 2010 and onwards 
or potentially result in no payout. Therefore, the number of units that will vest and are paid out may be 
higher or lower than the number of units originally granted to a participant.
  Also in 2010 “special” performance share units were granted in lieu of stock options. Distinguishing 
these “special” units from the regularly issued PSU series is the fact that the “special” units vest one third 
at the end of each year of their three-year term and carry an adjustment factor of 1.0. 

102     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   102

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
If dividends are paid, each participant will be allocated additional performance share units equal in 
value to the dividend paid on the number of common shares equal to the number of performance share 
units held by the participant, based on the share price on the date of the dividend. 

Centerra’s performance share unit plan transactions during the year were as follows:

Number of Units 

Balance, January 1 
Granted 
Exercised 
Cancelled 
Balance, December 31 

2011 

2010

  1,528,209 
219,211 
(421,964) 
(11,322) 
1,314,134 

1,201,677
539,546
(99,434)
(113,580)
  1,528,209

The Monte Carlo simulated option pricing model was used in estimating the fair value of a performance 
share unit that is not vested as at year end. The model requires the use of subjective assumptions, including 
expected stock-price volatility, risk-free rate of return and forfeiture rate. Historical data has been considered 
in setting the assumptions. In determining the fair value of these units, the principal assumptions used in 
applying the Monte Carlo simulated option pricing model were as follows:

Share price 
S&P/TSX Global Gold Index 
Expected life (years) 
Expected volatility – Share price 
Expected volatility – Gold Index 
Risk-free rate of return 
Expected dividends 
Forfeiture rate 

December 31  December 31 
2010

2011 

$ 
$ 

20.37 
429.16 
1.29 
54.1% 
33.4% 
1.5% 
0.35% 
2.8% 

$ 
$ 

19.89
449.74
1.25
50.3%
29.9%
1.6%
0.06%
1.4%

For the units that are fully vested as at year end, the fair value of the unit was determined using the 
calculated sixty-one trading days weighted average share price multiplied by the adjustment factor. 
In determining the fair value of the vested units, the principal assumptions used were as follows: 

Share price 
Weighted adjustment factor 

December 31  December 31 
2010

2011 

$ 

20.37 
1.53 

$ 

19.33
1.26

The vested numbers of units outstanding as at December 31, 2011 are 892,262 (December 31, 2010 – 
421,964 and January 1, 2010 – 423,746). The intrinsic value of the vested units at December 31, 2011 is 
$27.8 million (December 31, 2010 – $10.3 million and January 1, 2010 – $1.1 million).
  At December 31, 2011, the total number of units outstanding (vested and unvested) was 1,314,134, with 
a related liability of $33.0 million (December 31, 2010 – 1,528,209 and $28.4 million liability and January 1, 
2010 – 1,201,677, and $6.1 million liability). In 2011, compensation cost expense of $15.2 million was 
recorded on this plan ($23.2 million in 2010).

(iii) Annual performance share unit plan

Centerra has established an annual performance share unit plan for eligible employees at its mine sites. 
A performance share unit represents the right to receive the cash equivalent of a common share or, at the 
Company’s option, a common share purchased on the market. At the start of a year, an eligible employee 
receives a number of performance share units based on Centerra’s preceding sixty-one trading days 
weighted average share price. The number of units which will vest at the end of the same year is determined 
based on Centerra’s total return performance (based on the preceding sixty-one trading days weighted 
average share price) relative to the S&P/TSX Global Gold Index Total Return Index Value during the 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     103

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   103

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
applicable period. The number of units that vest is determined by multiplying the number of units granted 
to the participant by the adjustment factor, which can be as high as a factor of 2.0 or potentially result in no 
payout. The annual performance share units cannot be converted to shares at the option of the unit holder. 
If dividends are paid, each participant will be allocated additional performance share units equal in 
value to the dividend paid on the number of common shares equal to the number of performance share 
units held by the participant, based on the share price on the date of the dividend. 
  Centerra’s annual performance share unit plan transactions during the year were as follows:

Number of Units 

Balance, January 1 
Granted 
Exercised 
Cancelled 
Balance, December 31 

2011 

2010

156,571 
  96,059 
  (159,497) 
(16,120) 
77,013 

  420,870
179,155
  (425,877)
(17,577)
156,571

At December 31, 2011, the number of units outstanding and fully vested was 77,013 with a related liability 
of $1.9 million (December 31, 2010 – 156,571 and $6.2 million liability and January 1, 2010 – 420,870 and 
$6.3 million liability). In 2011, compensation cost expense of $1.9 million was recorded on this plan 
($6.5 million in 2010).
  For the unit that is fully vested as at year end, the fair value of the unit was determined using the 
calculated sixty-one trading days weighted average share price multiplying by the adjustment factor. 
In determining the fair value of the vested units, the principal assumptions used were as follows: 

Share price 
Weighted adjustment factor 

(iv) Deferred share unit plan 

December 31  December 31 
2010

2011 

$ 

20.37 
1.17 

$ 

19.33
2

Centerra has established a deferred share unit plan for Directors of the Company to receive all or a portion 
of their annual retainer as deferred share units. A similar plan was established to provide compensation in 
the form of deferred share units to the Company’s Vice Chair (the “Vice Chair Deferred Unit Plan”) for the 
duration of the Vice Chair tenure.
  Deferred share units are paid in full to a Director and to the Vice Chair no later than December 31 of 
the calendar year immediately following the calendar year of termination of service. A deferred share 
unit represents the right to receive the cash equivalent of a common share or, at the Company’s option, a 
common share purchased on the market. Deferred share units vest immediately upon grant. If dividends 
are paid, each Director and the Vice Chair will be allocated additional deferred share units equal in value 
to the dividend paid on the number of common shares equal to the number of deferred share units held. 
The deferred share units cannot be converted to shares at the option of the unit holder.
  Centerra’s deferred share unit plan transactions during the year were as follows:

Number of Units 

Balance, January 1 
Granted 
Exercised 
Cancelled 
Balance, December 31 

2011 

2010

  344,728 
9,788 
– 
– 
  354,516 

  375,216
58,443
(88,931)
–
  344,728

At December 31, 2011, the number of units outstanding was 354,516 with a related liability of $6.2 million 
(December 31, 2010 – 344,728 and $6.9 million liability and January 1, 2010 – 375,216 and $3.8 million 
liability). In 2011, compensation cost recovery of $0.7 million was recorded on this plan (expense of 
$4.4 million in 2010). 

104     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   104

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(v)  Restricted share unit plans 

Effective as of January 7, 2011, Centerra established a restricted share unit plan for non-executive Directors 
and designated employees of the Company to receive all or a portion of their annual retainer and salaries 
as restricted units. 
  The restricted share units vest immediately upon grant and are redeemed on a date chosen by the 
participant (subject to certain restrictions as set out in the plan). A restricted share unit represents the 
right to receive the cash equivalent of a common share or, at the holder’s option, a common share issued 
from the Company’s treasury. The plans reserves 1,000,000 shares for issuance. If dividends are paid, each 
participant will be allocated additional restricted share units equal in value to the dividend paid on the 
number of common shares equal to the number of restricted share units held. 
  Centerra’s restricted share unit plan transactions during the year were as follows:

Number of Units 

Balance, January 1 
Granted 
Exercised 
Cancelled 
Balance, December 31 

2011 

2010

– 
55,422 
(5,763) 
– 
  49,659 

–
–
–
–
–

All units granted in 2011 were assumed to be settled in cash and therefore accounted under the liability 
method. At December 31, 2011, the number of units outstanding was 49,659 with a related liability and 
expense of $0.9 million. 

26. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Commitments
As at December 31, 2011, the Company had entered into contracts to purchase capital equipment and operational 
supplies totalling $142.9 million (Kumtor $142.7 million and Boroo $0.2 million). These commitments are 
expected to be settled over the next twelve months. 

Leases
The Company enters into operating leases in the ordinary course of business, primarily for its various offi ces and 
facilities around the world. Payments under these leases represent contractual obligations as scheduled in each 
agreement. The main signifi cant operating lease payments, including operating costs, are for its corporate offi ces 
in Toronto and in the current year 2011 were $0.7 million (2010 – $0.6 million). The future aggregate minimum 
lease payments under the Toronto Corporate offi ces non-cancellable operating lease are as follows:

(Thousands of US$) 

2011 
2012 
2013 
2014 
2015 
2016 and thereafter 

2011 

– 
398 
401 
438 
478 
478 
2,193 

$ 

$ 

2010

401
398
401
438
478
478
2,594

$ 

$ 

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     105

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   105

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contingencies
Kyrgyz Republic 
As previously disclosed, Kumtor Operating Company (“KOC”), the Company’s Kyrgyz Republic operating 
subsidiary was in a dispute with the Kyrgyz Republic Social Fund (the “Social Fund”) regarding whether Social 
Fund contributions were required to be paid with respect to a high-altitude premium payable to KOC employees. 
This dispute began in 2010 and eventually led to KOC fi ling a claim in September 2011 to invalidate an assessment 
issued by the Social Fund requiring KOC to pay approximately $6.7 million in contributions owing for the 2010 
operating year. The matter was resolved in the third quarter of 2011 when KOC and the Social Fund reached an 
agreement whereby Kumtor would voluntarily pay to the Social Fund $14.1 million, covering the 2010 operating 
year ($6.7 million) and the fi rst nine months of 2011 ($7.4 million), without any penalties, fi nes and fi nancial 
sanctions and agreed to apply the Social Fund contribution to the high altitude premium in the future. Going 
forward, KOC will pay the employer’s portion of the Social Fund deduction for the high altitude premium and 
the employees will be responsible for the employee portion of such deduction. 

Mongolia 
In the fourth quarter of 2011, Centerra’s wholly owned subsidiary, Boroo Gold LLC, which owns the Boroo 
project, resolved the previously disclosed very signifi cant claim for compensation that it received from the 
Mongolian General Department of Specialized Inspection (“SSIA”) in October 2009 following the June 2009 
inspection at the Boroo project. The claim related to certain mineral reserves, including state alluvial reserves, 
covered by the Boroo project licenses, that are recorded in the Mongolian state reserves registry, but for which 
there are no or incomplete records or reports of mining activity. Pursuant to the resolution, Boroo Gold LLC 
accrued approximately $2.6 million in the 2011 year-end results and subsequently paid the amount in January 
2012. While this claim has been resolved, other regulatory issues remain outstanding in Mongolia, including the 
issuance of a fi nal heap leach permit. The Company continues to have discussions with regulatory offi cials 
regarding the issuance of the permit. 

As previously disclosed, the Mongolian Parliament enacted the Law to Prohibit Mineral Exploration And 

Mining Operations At River Headwaters, Protected Zones Of Water Reservoirs And Forested Areas (the “Water and 
Forest Law”) in 2009. Under the Water and Forest Law, mineral prospecting, exploration and mining in water 
basins and forestry areas in Mongolia would be prohibited, and the affected licenses would be revoked. The 
legislation provides a specifi c exemption for “mineral deposits of strategic importance”, which would exempt the 
Boroo mining licenses from the application of the legislation. Centerra’s Gatsuurt licenses and its other exploration 
license holdings in Mongolia however, are currently not exempt. Under the Minerals law of Mongolia, Parliament 
on its own initiative or, on the recommendation of the Government, may designate a mineral deposit as strategic. 
Such designation could result in Mongolia receiving up to a 34% interest in the deposit.

In 2010, the Company received correspondence from the Minerals Resource Authority of Mongolia (“MRAM”) 

stating that certain of its mining and exploration licenses, including the Gatsuurt mining licenses, could be 
revoked under the Water and Forest Law. In 2010, the Company was also informed by the Ministry of Mineral 
Resources and Energy (“MMRE”) that since the Gatsuurt licenses were within the area designated, on a 
preliminary basis, as land where mineral mining is prohibited under the Water and Forest Law, and that the 
MMRE would communicate further with the Company on negotiations with respect to an investment agreement 
for the Gatsuurt project once the MMRE received additional clarity on the impact of the Water and Forest Law 
on the Gatsuurt project. In November 2010, the Company also received a letter from the MMRE indicating that 
operations at the Gatsuurt project cannot be commenced while the implementation of the Water and Forest Law 
is being resolved. Accordingly, it is anticipated that further approvals and regulatory commissioning of Gatsuurt 
will be delayed as a result of the Water and Forest Law. 

106     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   106

27/03/12   8:21 AM

In November 2010, the Mongolian cabinet announced its intention to initiate the revocation of 1,782 mineral 

licenses under the Water and Forest Law on a staged basis, beginning with the revocation of 254 alluvial gold 
mining licenses, the list of which was fi nalized by the Mongolian Parliament in 2011. The Company has three 
licenses on the list of alluvial gold mining license that may be revoked. None of these licenses are material to the 
Company. In particular, the Company’s principal Gatsuurt hardrock mining licenses are not on the list of alluvial 
licenses to be revoked. In accordance with the Water and Forest Law, the Company submitted in February 2011 
a formal request for compensation for the three licenses to be revoked, which requests were updated again in 
January 2012 as a result of the fi nalization of the list.

The Mongolian Government announced in 2010 that it is considering taking the following actions as the next 

stages of its implementation of the Water and Forest Law:

•  preparing and submitting to the cabinet a proposal to designate as “strategic” those deposits, the 

development of which would contribute to regional social and economic development and, at the same 
time, require signifi cant amounts of compensation;

•  revoking all licenses for non-gold mining operations which utilize surface water;
•  revoking all 460 gold exploration licenses and providing compensation;
•  revoking all 931 non-gold exploration licenses and providing compensation;
•  revoking and providing compensation to all remaining affected mining licenses.

Of the Company’s 55 mineral licenses, 36 licenses (including the Gatsuurt hard rock licenses) are included in the 
1,782 licenses referred to in the cabinet announcement as subject to staged revocation. 

The Company understands that Mongolia’s cabinet expects that the Water and Forest Law will take until 

approximately November 2012 to fully implement. According to statements by offi cials, the Mongolian 
Government estimates that the total compensation due to mining companies for the revocation of their licenses 
will amount to approximately US$4 billion, which is about 65% of the Mongolia’s annual gross domestic product 
for 2010. 

The Water and Forest Law has attracted opposition from Mongolia’s alluvial miners, the Mongolian National 
Mining Association and other groups. A group of parliamentarians proposed amendments to the Water and Forest 
Law in 2011 to reduce its impact on environmentally-sound mining operations. The Company understands that as 
drafted, such amendments would allow the Gatsuurt project to proceed. Such amendments were discussed by a 
Mongolian parliamentary committee in 2011 which then referred it to Parliament for further discussion. The 
Parliament did not discuss the amendment during the 2011 but the Company understands that the amendments 
may be tabled for discussion in 2012.

Centerra is reasonably confi dent that the economic and development benefi ts resulting from its exploration 

and development activities will ultimately result in the Water and Forests Law having a limited impact on the 
Company’s Mongolian activities. There can be no assurance, however, that this will be the case. Unless the 
Water and Forest Law is repealed or amended such that the law no longer applies to the project or Gatsuurt is 
designated as a “mineral deposit of strategic importance” that is exempt from the Water and Forest Law, mineral 
reserves at Gatsuurt may have to be reclassifi ed as mineral resources or eliminated entirely and the Company may 
be required to write-off the associated investment in Gatsuurt and Boroo. As at December 31, 2011, the Company 
had net assets recorded amounting to approximately $36 million related to the investment in Gatsuurt and 
approximately $25million remaining capitalized for the Boroo mill facility and other surface structures which 
are expected to be utilized for the processing of ore from Gatsuurt. Although the Company expects to exploit 
the Gatsuurt deposit, should this not be the case, the Company would be required to write-off these amounts. 
A revocation of the Company’s mineral licenses, including the Gatsuurt mineral license, or the reclassifi cation of 
mineral reserves or the write-off of assets could have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future cash fl ows, earnings, 
results of operations and fi nancial condition. 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   107

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     107

In November 2010, the Mongolian Parliament passed amendments to its Minerals Law that modifi ed the 
existing royalty structure on mineral projects. Pursuant to the amended royalty structure, the royalty rate is no 
longer a fi xed percentage but is graduated and dependent upon the commodity price in U.S. dollars. In the case 
of gold, there is a basic 5% royalty fee that applies while gold is less than $900 per ounce. For any increase of $100 
to the price of gold, there is a corresponding 1% increase to the royalty fee. Accordingly, at $900 per ounce, the 
royalty fee increases to 6% which continues until the gold price reaches $1,000 per ounce at which point, the 
royalty increases to 7%, at $1,100 per ounce, the royalty increases to 8%, and at $1,200 per ounce, the royalty 
increases to 9%. The highest royalty fee rate is reached at 10% when gold is $1,300 per ounce and above. The 
graduated royalty became effective as of January 1, 2011 for all mining projects in Mongolia. On January 19, 2011, 
the Standing Committee of the State Great Hural of Mongolia issued a resolution to the Mongolian Government 
which, among other things, resolved to direct the Government to enter into negotiations to have the graduated 
royalty structure apply to business entities that have already entered into a stability agreement and/or an 
investment agreement. This would include the Company’s Boroo project which is currently operating pursuant 
to a stability agreement entered with the Mongolian Government. The Company is of the opinion that the Boroo 
stability agreement provides, among other things, legislative stabilization for its Boroo operations and accordingly 
the graduated royalty fee is not applicable to Boroo’s remaining operations. As of the date of this Annual MD&A, 
the Company is not aware of any response or activity by the Mongolian Government on this State Great Hural of 
Mongolia resolution. 

Despite this, the Company cannot provide any assurances that Boroo will not be made subject to the graduated 

royalty fee. If the graduated royalty fee does apply to Boroo, it may have an adverse impact on Centerra’s future 
cash fl ows, earnings, results of operations or fi nancial condition. Regardless of whether the graduated royalty fee 
applies to the Boroo operations, it will apply to gold produced from the Gatsuurt project, when developed.

Corporate Matters
In March 2011, Centerra was served by a Turkish company, Sistem Muhenkislik Insaat Sanayi Ticaret SA (“Sistem”), 
with a notice of enforcement to seize any shares and dividends in Centerra held in the name of the Kyrgyz Republic, 
followed by a notice of garnishment in April 2011 for any debts owed by Centerra to the Kyrgyz Republic (the 
“Republic”). These notices were served by Sistem through the Sheriff in Toronto as part of the enforcement 
proceedings brought by Sistem in the Ontario Superior Court to collect approximately US$11 million with 
additional interest, owed to Sistem by the Republic in accordance with a judgment of the Ontario Superior Court 
enforcing an international arbitration award against the Republic. In these Ontario proceedings, Sistem alleges 
that the shares in Centerra owned by Kyrgyzaltyn JSC, and any dividends paid in respect of those shares, are in 
fact legally and benefi cially owned by the Republic and are therefore subject to execution to pay the judgment. 
Based on legal advice received, Centerra disputes those allegations and maintains that Kyrgyzaltyn JSC alone is 
the legal and benefi cial owner of the shares and any dividends in respect of those shares, based on the applicable 
legal principles and the binding agreements with Kyrgyzaltyn JSC. As a result and notwithstanding such notices 
of enforcement and garnishment, Centerra paid its May 18, 2011 dividend (as discussed above) in the total amount 
of approximately Cdn$31 million to Kyrgyzaltyn JSC. Sistem is continuing with its claim regarding the Centerra 
shares owned by Kyrgyzaltyn JSC. If this claim is successful in the Ontario court proceedings, Sistem may have a 
right to execute its judgment against those shares and may assert a claim against Centerra in respect of the 
payment of the dividends to Kyrgyzaltyn JSC. However, Centerra believes it has a strong defence to that claim 
based on the facts and the law. At a motion in September 2011, Kyrgyzaltyn JSC was formally added as a party to 
the proceeding.

Kyrgyzaltyn has brought a motion to be heard by the Ontario Superior Court (to be heard in April 2012) to set 
aside the Ontario judgment enforcing the arbitration award on the basis that the court did not have jurisdiction 
to entertain the application or in the alternative that there is a foreign court which is a more convenient forum 
to hear and decide the issues of legal and benefi cial ownership of the shares as between Kyrgyzaltyn and the 
Kyrgyz Republic.

108     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   108

27/03/12   8:21 AM

27. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
a. Kyrgyzaltyn JSC
Revenues from the Kumtor gold mine are subject to a management fee of $1.00 per ounce based on sales volumes, 
payable to Kyrgyzaltyn JSC (“Kyrgyzaltyn”), a shareholder of the Company and a state-owned entity of the 
Kyrgyz Republic.

The table below summarizes 100% of the management fees and concession payments paid and accrued by 
Kumtor Gold Company to Kyrgyzaltyn and the amounts paid and receivable by Kyrgyzaltyn to Kumtor according 
to the terms of a Gold and Silver Sale Agreement between Kumtor Operating Company (“KOC”), Kyrgyzaltyn and 
the Government of the Kyrgyz Republic. 

The breakdown of the sales transactions and expenses with the related parties are as follows:

Related parties in the Kyrgyz Republic

(Thousands of US$) 

Management fees paid to Kyrgyzaltyn 
Gross gold and silver sales to Kyrgyzaltyn 
Deduct: refi nery and fi nancing charges 
Net sales revenue received from Kyrgyzaltyn 

2011 

2010

$ 
599 
$  944,020 
(2,947) 
$  941,073 

$ 
568
$  706,823
(2,558)
$  704,265

Gold produced by the Kumtor mine is purchased at the mine site by Kyrgyzaltyn for processing at its refi nery 
in the Kyrgyz Republic pursuant to Gold and Silver Sale Agreement discussed above.

Dividend

(Thousands of US$) 

Dividends paid to Kyrgyzaltyn 

2011 

2010

$ 

29,412 

$ 

4,412

Related party balances
The assets and liabilities of the Company include the following amounts due from and to Kyrgyzaltyn:

(Thousands of US$) 

Prepaid expenses 
Amounts receivable 
Total related party assets 

Amounts payable 
Total related party liabilities 

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

143 
47,366 
47,509 

– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

12 
88,997 
89,009 

– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

–
37,861
37,861

175
175

Amounts receivable from Kyrgyzaltyn arise from the sale of gold to Kyrgyzaltyn. Pursuant to the Agreement 
on New Terms, entered into in April 2009, the Gold and Silver Sale Agreement was amended and restated in 
June 2009 with new terms. Kyrgyzaltyn is required to pay for gold delivered within 12 days from the date of 
shipment. Default interest is accrued on any unpaid balance after the permitted payment period of 12 days. 
The obligations of Kyrgyzaltyn are partially secured by a pledge of 2,850,000 shares of Centerra owned 

by Kyrgyzaltyn. 

b. Transactions with Directors and Key Management 
The Company transacts with key individuals from management and with its directors who have authority and 
responsibility to plan, direct and control the activities of the Company. The nature of these dealings were in 
the form of payments for services rendered in their capacity as director (director fees, including stock-based 
payments) and as employees of the Company (salaries, benefi ts and share-based payments). 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   109

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     109

 
 
 
 
 
Key management personnel are defi ned as the executive offi cers of the Company including the President and 
Chief Executive Offi cer, Vice President and Chief Financial Offi cer, Vice President and Chief Operating Offi cer, 
Senior Vice President Global Exploration, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Vice President Business 
Development and Vice President Human Resources. 

During 2011 and 2010, remuneration to directors and key management personnel were as follows:

Compensation of Directors 
Compensation of the directors comprised:

(Thousands of US$) 

Fees earned and other compensation 
Share-based compensation:
  Earned during the year 
  Appreciation during the year from previous grants 

2011 

$ 

1,055 

$ 

1,151 
(607) 
1,599 

$ 

$ 

2010

945

855
3,563
5,363

Fees earned and other compensations 
These amounts represent fees paid to the non-executive chairman and the non-executive directors during the 
fi nancial year.

Share-based compensation
A portion of the directors’ compensation is settled with the Company’s share-based plans (Deferred Share Unit 
plan and Restricted Share Unit plan) according to the election of the directors.

The Deferred Share Unit and Restricted Share Unit amounts granted to directors represent the intended value 
to settle the compensation obligations owed by the Company in satisfaction of the directors’ election. The Deferred 
Share Unit and Restricted Share Unit plans in which the directors participate are discussed in note 25.

Compensation of Key Management Personnel 
Compensation of key management personnel comprised:

(Thousands of US$) 

Salaries and benefi ts 
Share-based compensation:
  Earned during the year 
  Appreciation during the year from previous grants 

2011 

$ 

5,462 

$ 

8,280 
941 
14,683 

$ 

$ 

2010

5,461

6,546
4,788
16,795

Salaries and benefi ts 
These amounts represent salary, supplementary executive retirement plan contribution, and benefi ts earned 
during the year, plus cash bonuses awarded for the year. 

Share-based compensations 
This is the recognized cost to the Company of senior management’s participation in share-based payment plans, 
as measured by the fair value of options and performance share units granted, accounted for in accordance with 
IFRS 2 ‘Share-based Payments’. The main plans in which senior management have participated are the stock 
options plan and PSU plan. For details of these plans refer to note 25.

110     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   110

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
28. CAPITAL MANAGEMENT 

The Company’s primary objective with respect to its capital management is to ensure that it has suffi cient 
cash resources to maintain its ongoing operations, to provide returns for shareholders and benefi ts for other 
stakeholders and to pursue growth opportunities. To secure additional capital to pursue these plans, the 
Company may attempt to raise additional funds through borrowing and/or the issuance of equity or debt.

The Company’s capital structure consists of short-term debt (net of cash and cash equivalents and short-term 

investments) and shareholders’ equity, comprising issued common shares, contributed surplus and retained 
earnings.

(Thousands of US$) 

Short-term debt 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 
Net debt 
Shareholders’ equity 
Total capital 

December 31  December 31 
2010 

2011 

January 1
2010

$ 

– 
  (195,539) 
  (372,667) 
  (568,206) 
 1,538,459 
$  970,253 

$ 

– 
  (330,737) 
(82,278) 
  (413,015) 
  1,261,797 
$  848,782 

$ 

–
  (176,904)
  (145,971)
  (322,875)
  945,578
$  622,703

The Company is bound by certain covenants stipulated in the revolving credit facility. These covenants place 
restrictions on total debt, dividend payments, and set threshold parameters for certain fi nancial ratios. As at 
December 31, 2011 the Company is in compliance with these requirements. 

29. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS 

The Company has various fi nancial instruments comprised of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, 
restricted cash, receivables, a reclamation trust fund, borrowings, accounts payable and accrued liabilities. 
The estimated fair values of certain fi nancial instruments have been determined using available market 
information or other valuation methodologies that require considerable judgment in interpreting market data 
and developing estimates. Cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, restricted cash and reclamation 
trust fund are classifi ed as fi nancial instruments carried at fair value through profi t or loss and amounts receivable 
are classifi ed in the “Loans and Receivables” category, which is measured at amortized cost. 

Cash and cash equivalents consist of cash on hand, with fi nancial institutions, invested in term deposits, 
treasury bills, banker’s acceptances and corporate direct credit with original maturities of three months or less. 
Fair values of the cash equivalents and short-term investments are determined directly by reference to published 
price quotations in an active market at the reporting date. 

Short-term investments consist of investments in term deposits, treasury bills, banker’s acceptances, bearer’s 
deposit notes, and corporate direct credit with original maturities of more than three months but less than twelve 
months. Fair values of the cash equivalents and short-term investments are determined directly by reference to 
published price quotations in an active market at the reporting date. 

The fair value of amounts receivable is determined by the amount of cash anticipated to be produced in the 

normal course of business from the fi nancial asset, net of any direct costs of the conversion into cash.

There were no borrowings by the Company incurred in 2011 or outstanding at December 31, 2011. The Company 
has a credit facility available with the EBRD whereby borrowings bear interest at a fi xed premium over the variable 
London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”). The fair value of borrowings under this facility would approximate 
their carrying amount given the fl oating component of the interest rate. 

2011_Centerra_Page 111-112.indd   111

Mar/31/2012   1:37 PM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     111

 
Classifi cation of the fi nancial assets and liabilities in the statement of fi nancial position were as follows:

December 31, 2011

(Thousands of US$) 

Financial Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 
Restricted cash 
Amounts receivable 
Reclamation trust fund 
Long-term receivables and other assets 

Financial Liabilities
Accounts payables and accrued liabilities 

December 31, 2010

(Thousands of US$) 

Financial Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 
Restricted cash 
Amounts receivable 
Reclamation trust fund 
Long-term receivables and other assets 

Financial Liabilities
Accounts payables and accrued liabilities 

January 1, 2010

(Thousands of US$) 

Financial Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 
Restricted cash 
Amounts receivable 
Reclamation trust fund 
Long-term receivables and other assets 

Financial Liabilities
Accounts payables and accrued liabilities 

Loans and 
receivables 

Other financial 
liabilities 

Asset/liabilities
at fair value
through earnings

$ 

– 
– 
– 
56,749 
– 
13,119 
$  69,868 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

76,385 
76,385 

$  195,539
  372,667
179
–
9,081
–
$  577,466

$ 
$ 

–
–

Loans and
receivables 

Other fi nancial
liabilities 

Asset/liabilities
at fair value
through earnings

$ 

– 
– 
– 
  100,562 
– 
6,751 
107,313 

$ 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

70,909 
70,909 

$  330,737
82,278
795
–
7,448
–
$  421,258

$ 
$ 

–
–

Loans and
receivables 

Other fi nancial
liabilities 

Asset/liabilities
at fair value
through earnings

$ 

– 
– 
– 
44,281 
– 
111 
$  44,392 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 

$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$ 
$ 

49,098 
49,098 

$  176,904
145,971
–
–
6,443
–
$  329,318

$ 
$ 

–
–

IFRS 7 Financial Instruments – Disclosures, requires that an explanation be provided about how fair value is 
determined for assets and liabilities measured in the fi nancial statements at fair value and establish a hierarchy 
for which these assets and liabilities must be grouped based on whether the inputs to those valuation techniques

112     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 111-112.indd   112

Mar/31/2012   1:37 PM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
are observable or unobservable. Observable inputs refl ect market data obtained from independent sources, 
while unobservable inputs refl ect the Company’s assumptions. The two types of inputs create the following fair 
value hierarchy: 

Level 1: observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; 
 Level 2: inputs, other than the quoted market prices in active markets, which are observable, either directly 
and/or indirectly; and 
 Level 3: unobservable inputs for the asset or liability in which little or no market data exists, therefore require 
an entity to develop its own assumptions. 

The following table summarizes the fair value measurement by level at December 31, 2011, December 31, 2010 and 
January 1, 2010 for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis: 

(Thousands of US$) 

Financial Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 
Restricted cash 
Reclamation trust fund 

Financial liabilities
Cash settled share-based 

compensation liabilities 

December 31, 2011 
Level 1 

Level 2 

December 31, 2010 
Level 2 
Level 1 

January 1, 2010

Level 1 

Level 2

$  195,539 
 372,667 
179 
9,081 
$  577,466 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$ 330,737 
  82,278 
795 
7,448 
$ 421,258 

$ 

$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

$ 176,904 
  145,971 
– 
  6,443 
$  329,318 

$ 

$ 

–
–
–
–
–

$ 
$ 

– 
– 

$  41,974 
$  41,974 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 

$  41,665 
$  41,665 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 

$  16,930
$  16,930

30. FINANCIAL RISK EXPOSURE AND RISK MANAGEMENT

The Company is exposed in varying degrees to certain fi nancial instruments and related risks by virtue of its 
activities. The overall fi nancial risk management program focuses on preservation of capital, and protecting 
current and future Company assets and cash fl ows by reducing exposure to risks posed by the uncertainties 
and volatilities of fi nancial markets. 

The Board of Directors has a responsibility to ensure that an adequate fi nancial risk management policy is 

established and to approve the policy. Financial risk management is carried out by the Company’s Treasury 
department under a policy approved by the Board of Directors. The Treasury department identifi es and evaluates 
fi nancial risks, establishes controls and procedures to ensure fi nancial risks are mitigated in accordance with the 
approved policy and programs, and risk management activities comply thereto.

The Company’s Audit Committee oversees management’s compliance with the Company’s fi nancial risk 

management policy, approves fi nancial risk management programs, and receives and reviews reports on 
management compliance with the policy and programs. The Internal Audit department assists the Audit 
Committee in undertaking its oversight of fi nancial risk management controls and procedures, the results 
of which are reported to the Audit Committee.

The types of risk exposure and the way in which such exposures are managed are as follows:

a. Currency Risk
As the Company operates in an international environment, some of the Company’s fi nancial instruments and 
transactions are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The results of the Company’s operations 
are subject to currency transaction risk and currency translation risk. The operating results and fi nancial position 
of the Company are reported in U.S. dollars in the Company’s consolidated fi nancial statements. 

The fl uctuation of the U.S. dollar in relation to other currencies will consequently have an impact upon 
the profi tability of the Company and may also affect the value of the Company’s assets and the amount of 
shareholders’ equity. 

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   113

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     113

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
As required, the Company either makes purchases at the prevailing spot price to fund corporate activities 

or enters into short-term forward contracts to purchase Canadian Dollars or Euro. During the year ended 
December 31, 2011, Cdn $111.7 million and Euro 8.0 million of such forward contracts were executed (December 31, 
2010 – Cdn $6.7 million and Euro 16.0 million; and January 1, 2010 – Cdn $6.3 million and nil Euro). There were 
no outstanding Cdn forward contracts and Euro 2 million contracts outstanding at December 31, 2011 
(December 31, 2010 – nil and January 1, 2010 – nil). 

The exposure of the Company’s fi nancial assets and liabilities to currency risk is as follows:

December 31, 2011

(Thousands of US$) 

Financial Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 
Restricted cash 
Amounts receivable 

Financial Liabilities
Accounts payable and 
accrued liabilities 

December 31, 2010 

(Thousands of US$) 

Financial Assets
Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 
Restricted cash 
Amounts receivable 
Other long term assets 

Financial Liabilities
Accounts payable and 
accrued liabilities 

Kyrgyz  Mongolian  Canadian 
Dollar 
Tugrik 

Som 

Russian  European 
Euro 

Ruble 

Turkish  Australian
Dollar

Lira 

$ 

$ 

650 
– 
– 
132 
782 

$ 

684 
– 
179 
  2,093 
$  2,956 

$ 32,572 
  4,758 
– 
616 
$ 37,946 

$ 10,077 
$ 10,077 

$  7,862 
$  7,862 

$ 
$ 

251 
251 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

50 
– 
– 
125 
175 

$  6,313 
– 
– 
173 
$  6,486 

254 
254 

$ 
$ 

843 
843 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

15 
– 
– 
29 
44 

16 
16 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

–
–
–
–
–

–
–

Kyrgyz  Mongolian  Canadian 
Dollar 
Tugrik 

Som 

Russian  European 
Euro 

Ruble 

Turkish  Australian
Dollar

Lira 

$ 

$ 

436 
– 
– 
81 
149 
666 

$  1,642 
– 
795 
  2,833 
– 
$  5,270 

$  14,877 
– 
– 
356 
202 
$  15,435 

$  4,616 
$  4,616 

$  13,148 
$  13,148 

$ 40,238 
$ 40,238 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

84 
– 
– 
83 
– 
167 

$  4,878 
– 
– 
127 
– 
$  5,005 

– 
– 

$ 
$ 

1,211 
1,211 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 

–
–
–
–
–
–

292
292

A strengthening of the U.S. dollar by 10% against the Canadian Dollar, the Kyrgyz Som, the Turkish Lira, the 
Russian Ruble, European Euro and the Mongolian Tugrik at December 31, 2011, with all other variables held 
constant would have led to additional before tax net income of $2.9 million (2010 – $3.6 million) as a result of 
a change in value of the fi nancial assets and liabilities denominated in those currencies.

b. Interest Rate Risk 
Interest rate risk is the risk borne by an interest-bearing asset or liability as a result of fl uctuations in interest rates.
Financial assets and fi nancial liabilities with variable interest rates expose the Company to cash fl ow interest 
rate risk. The Company’s cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments include highly liquid investments 
that earn interest at market rates. As of December 31, 2011, the majority of $568.2 million in cash and cash 
equivalents and short-term investments (December 31, 2010 – $413.0 million and January 1, 2010 – $322.8 million) 
were comprised of interest-bearing assets. Based on amounts as at December 31, 2011, a 100 basis point change in 
interest rates would change annual interest income by approximately $4.4 million (2010 – $2.7 million).

114     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   114

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
In addition, the interest on the undrawn $150 million revolving credit facility includes a variable rate component 

pegged to the London Interbank Offer Rate, or LIBOR.

Although the Company endeavours to maximize the interest income earned on excess funds, the Company’s 
policy focuses on cash preservation, while maintaining the liquidity necessary to conduct operations on a day-to-
day basis. The Company’s policy limits the investing of excess funds to liquid term deposits, treasury bills, banker’s 
acceptances, bearer’s deposit notes and corporate direct credit having a single “A” rating or greater.

c. Concentration of Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk of a fi nancial loss to the Company if a gold sales customer or counterparty to a fi nancial 
instrument fails to meet its contractual obligation. Credit risk arises principally from the Company’s receivables 
from customers, deposits and short-term investments. 

The Company’s exposure to credit risk, in respect of gold sales, is infl uenced mainly by the individual 
characteristics of each customer. The Company’s revenues are directly attributable to sales transactions with 
three customers. Boroo sells the gold and silver content of its doré to Auramet Trading, LLC or Johnson Matthey 
Limited. The sales of gold and silver are governed by a Master Purchase Contract with Auramet Trading, LLC, 
and a Gold Doré Refi ning Agreement with Johnson Matthey Limited’s North American precious metals division. 
Kyrgyzaltyn LLC, a state-owned company that operates a refi nery in the Kyrgyz Republic, is Kumtor’s sole 
customer and is a shareholder of Centerra. To partially mitigate exposure to potential credit risk related to 
Kumtor sales, the Company has an agreement in place whereby Kyrgyzaltyn has pledged 2,850,000 of Centerra 
common shares it owns as security against unsettled gold shipments, in the event of default on payment (note 25). 
Based on movements of Centerra’s share price, and the value of individual or unsettled gold shipments, over 
the course of 2011, the maximum exposure during the year, refl ecting the shortfall in the value of the security as 
compared to the value of any unsettled shipments, was approximately $44.8 million.

The Company manages counterparty credit risk, in respect of short-term investments, by maintaining bank 

accounts with highly-rated U.S. and Canadian banks and investing only in highly-rated Canadian and U.S. 
Government bills, term deposits or banker’s acceptances with highly-rated fi nancial institutions and corporate 
direct credit issues that can be promptly liquidated. 

At December 31, 2011 21% of cash and equivalents were held with Bank of Nova Scotia, and 9% with Royal 
Bank of Canada. Another 16% was held with various other U.S. and foreign banks. This 46% of liquid assets held 
includes not only cash in operating bank accounts, but also term deposits and other investments where the bank 
is the counterparty. The remainder of the assets were held in government and agency securities, and highly-rated 
corporate direct credit issues. 

d. Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Company will not be able to meet its fi nancial obligations as they fall due. 

The Company’s Financial Risk Management Policy requires that surplus cash only be invested in highly-rated 

and highly-liquid instruments to ensure risk to the Company’s assets is minimized. 

The Company manages its liquidity risk by ensuring that there is suffi cient capital to meet short- and long-
term business requirements, after taking into account cash fl ows from operations and the Company’s holdings 
of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments. In addition, there is an undrawn credit fi nancing 
facility of $150 million. The Company believes that these sources will be suffi cient to cover its likely short- 
and long-term cash requirements. Senior management is also actively involved in the review and approval 
of planned expenditures by regularly monitoring cash fl ows from operations and anticipated investing and 
fi nancing activities.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   115

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     115

At December 31, 2011, the Company had cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of $568.2 million 

which represents 56% of 2011 operating revenues. A maturity analysis of the Company’s fi nancial liabilities, 
contractual obligations, other fi xed operating commitments and capital commitments is set out below:

(Millions of US$) 

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Reclamation trust deed 
Capital equipment 
Operational supplies 
Conservation fund 
Lease of premises 
Total contractual obligations 

Total 

76.4 
27.9 
98.4 
44.5 
0.1 
2.1 
249.4 

$ 

$ 

Due in 
Less than 
One year 

Due in 
1 to 3 
Years 

Due in 
4 to 5 
Years 

Due
After 5
Years

76.4 
4.1 
98.4 
44.5 
0.1 
0.4 
223.9 

$ 

$ 

$ 

– 
8.2 
– 
– 
– 
0.8 
9.0 

$ 

$ 

– 
7.7 
– 
– 
– 
0.9 
8.6 

$ 

$ 

–
7.9
–
–
–
–
7.9

The Company has suffi cient cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments to meet its current obligations.

e. Commodity Price Risk 
The value of the Company’s revenues and mineral resource properties is related to the price of gold, and the 
outlook for this mineral. Adverse changes in the price of certain raw materials can also signifi cantly impair the 
Company’s cash fl ows. 

Gold prices historically have fl uctuated widely and are affected by numerous factors outside of the Company’s 

control, including, but not limited to, industrial and retail demand, central bank reserves management, forward 
sales by producers and speculators, levels of worldwide production, short-term changes in supply and demand 
due to speculative hedging activities, macro-economic variables, and certain other factors related specifi cally to 
gold.

The profi tability of the Company’s operations is highly correlated to the market price of gold. To the extent 
that the price of gold increases over time, asset value increases and cash fl ows improve; conversely, declines in 
the price of gold directly impact asset value and cash fl ows. A protracted period of depressed prices could impair 
the Company’s operations and development opportunities, and signifi cantly erode shareholder value. 

To the extent there are adverse changes to the price of certain raw materials (e.g. diesel fuel), the value of the 

Company’s reserves may be impacted.

If the world market price of gold was to drop and the prices realized by the Company on gold sales were to 
decrease by 10%, based on the number of ounces in inventory as at December 31, 2011, the Company’s profi tability 
and cash fl ow, after adjusting for any remaining conversion costs not yet incurred, would be negatively affected 
by an additional before tax net loss of $52.2 million (2010 – $64.1 million). 

31. SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW DISCLOSURE
a. Changes in operating working capital

(Thousands of US$) 

2011 

(Increase) decrease in amounts receivable 
(Increase) decrease in inventory – ore and metal 
(Increase) decrease in inventory – supplies 
Increase in prepaid expenses 
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
Increase (decrease) in Revenue-based tax payable 
Reduction (increase) in depreciation and amortization included in inventory 
Reduction (increase) in accruals included in additions to PP&E 

$ 

43,813 
(55,521) 
  (42,790) 
(4,615) 
5,475 
(10,311) 
18,563 
1,235 
(44,150) 

$ 

2010

(56,281)
(22,352)
(7,459)
(10,503)
21,810
(3,866)
(856)
(272)
(79,778)

$ 

$ 

116     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   116

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
b. Investment in property, plant and equipment (PP&E)

(Thousands of US$) 

Additions to PP&E during the year ended December 31, 
Impact of revision to asset retirement obligation included in PP&E 
Depreciation and amortization included in additions to PP&E 
Reduction (increase) in accruals included in additions to PP&E 
Cash investment in PP&E 

2011 

2010

$  (208,489) 
15,942 
18,627 
(1,235) 
$  (175,155) 

$  (225,434)
7,070
9,867
272
$  (208,224)

32. SEGMENTED INFORMATION 

In accordance with IFRS 8, Operating Segments, the Company’s operations are segmented on a regional basis and 
are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision-maker 
(“CODM”). The Chief Executive Offi cer has authority for resource allocation and assessment of the Company’s 
performance and is therefore the CODM. 

The Kyrgyz Republic segment involves the operations of the Kumtor Gold Project and local exploration 

activities, and the Mongolian segment involves the operations of the Boroo Gold Project, activities related to the 
Gatsuurt project and local exploration activities. The Corporate and other segment involves the head offi ce 
located in Toronto and exploration activities in North American and other international projects. The segments’ 
accounting policies are the same as those described in the summary of signifi cant accounting policies (note 3) 
except that inter-company loan interest income and expenses, which eliminate on consolidation, are presented 
in the individual operating segments where they are generated when determining earnings or loss.

Geographic Segmentation of Revenue
The Company’s only product is gold doré, produced from mines located in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia. 
All production from the Kumtor Gold Project is sold to the Kyrgyzaltyn refi nery in the Kyrgyz Republic while 
production from the Boroo Gold project is sold to Auramet Trading, LLC or Johnson Matthey Limited; the latter 
also refi nes the gold for Boroo at its refi nery located in Ontario, Canada.

The following table reconciles segment operating profi t per the reportable segment information to operating 

profi t per the consolidated income statement.

Year ended December 31, 2011

(Millions of U.S. dollars) 

Revenue from Gold Sales 
  Cost of sales 
  Mine standby costs 
  Regional offi ce administration 

Earnings from mine operations 
  Revenue-based taxes 
  Other operating expenses 
  Exploration and business development 
  Corporate administration 

Earnings from operations 
  Other (income) and expenses 

Finance costs 

Earnings (loss) before income taxes 

Income tax expense 

Net earnings and comprehensive income 

Capital expenditure for the year 
Goodwill 
Assets (excluding Goodwill) 

Kyrgyz 
Republic 

Mongolia 

Corporate
and other 

$ 

$ 

941.1 
332.6 
– 
15.3 

593.2 
131.8 
11.5 
13.6 
2.1 

434.2 
(0.7) 
1.3 
433.6 

79.2 
49.7 
0.2 
6.0 

23.3 
– 
3.9 
11.4 
0.4 

7.6 
0.6 
0.4 
6.6 

$ 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
17.9 
42.4 

(60.3) 
(0.9) 
1.8 
(61.2) 

Total

$  1,020.3
382.3
0.2
21.3

616.5
131.8
15.4
42.9
44.9

381.5
(1.0)
3.5
379.0
8.1
370.9

$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

180.7 
129.7 
1,016.6 

$ 
$ 
$ 

6.6 
– 
319.4 

$ 
$ 
$ 

0.6 
– 
222.9 

187.9
$ 
$ 
129.7
$  1,558.9

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     117

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   117

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Year ended December 31, 2010

(Millions of U.S. dollars) 

Revenue from Gold Sales 
  Cost of sales 
  Mine standby costs 
  Regional offi ce administration 

Earnings from mine operations 
  Revenue-based taxes 
  Other operating expenses 
  Exploration and business development 
  Corporate administration 

Earnings from operations 
  Other (income) and expenses 

Finance costs 

  Gain on sale of REN property 
Earnings (loss) before income taxes 

Income tax expense 

Net earnings and comprehensive income 

Capital expenditure for the year 
Goodwill 
Assets (excluding Goodwill) 

Kyrgyz 
Republic 

Mongolia 

Corporate
and other 

$ 

704.3 
272.4 
1.3 
14.3 

416.3 
98.6 
1.2 
11.9 
2.0 

302.6 
1.1 
0.9 
– 
300.6 

$ 

145.5 
69.8 
– 
6.8 

68.9 
– 
6.8 
8.2 
0.4 

53.5 
1.1 
0.6 
– 
51.8 

– 
– 
– 
– 

– 
– 
– 
12.3 
49.9 

(62.2) 
(1.6) 
– 
(34.9) 
(25.7) 

$ 
$ 
$ 

186.5 
129.7 
713.6 

$ 
$ 
$ 

25.2 
– 
277.6 

$ 
$ 
$ 

0.3 
– 
279.6 

Total

849.8
342.2
1.3
21.1

485.2
98.6
8.0
32.4
52.3

293.9
0.6
1.5
(34.9)
326.7
4.4
322.3

212.0
129.7
1,270.8

$ 

$ 

$ 
$ 
$ 

33. FIRST TIME ADOPTION OF IFRS
a. Transition to IFRS
The Company has adopted IFRS effective January 1, 2011 with a transition date of January 1, 2010. Prior to the 
adoption of IFRS the Company prepared its fi nancial statements in accordance with Canadian GAAP. 

The comparative information presented in these fi nancial statements for the year ended December 31, 2010 
and the opening fi nancial position as at January 1, 2010 (the “Transition Date”) has been prepared in accordance 
with the accounting policies referenced in note 3 and IFRS 1, First-Time Adoption of International Financial 
Reporting Standards (“IFRS 1”).

b. Initial elections upon adoption
The Company adopted IFRS in accordance with IFRS 1, First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting 
Standards. The IFRS 1 exemptions and exceptions applied in the conversion from Canadian GAAP to IFRS by the 
Company are explained as follows:

IFRS Exemption Options
i.  Business combinations 

The Company elected under IFRS 1 not to restate previous business combinations prior to the transition date. 
Consequently, any goodwill arising on such business combinations before the Transition Date has not been 
adjusted from the carrying value previously determined under Canadian GAAP as a result of applying this 
exemption. 

118     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 118.indd   118

Mar/31/2012   1:38 PM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ii.  Share-based payments 

The Company elected under IFRS 1 not to apply IFRS 2, Share-Based Payments, to all equity instruments of 
share-based payments that had vested at the transition date. Further, the Company elected not to apply IFRS 2 
for all cash-settled share-based payments that were settled before the transition date. 

iii. Borrowing costs 

The Company elected to expense borrowing costs prior to January 1, 2010, which is consistent with the 
Company’s accounting policy for such costs under Canadian GAAP.

iv. Asset retirement obligation

The Company applied the requirements of IFRIC 1, Changes in Existing Decommissioning, Restoration and 
Similar Liabilities, which retrospectively requires specifi ed changes, in decommissioning, restoration or 
similar liabilities to be added to or deducted from the cost of the asset to which it relates and the adjusted 
depreciable amount of the asset to then be depreciated prospectively over its remaining useful life.

v.  Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries

The Company adopted IFRS later than its subsidiaries. As a result the Company, in its consolidated fi nancial 
statements, measured the assets and liabilities of the subsidiaries at the same carrying amounts as in the 
fi nancial statements of the subsidiary, after adjusting for consolidation adjustments and for the effects of the 
business combination in which the Company acquired the subsidiary.

IFRS mandatory exception
i.  Estimates

Hindsight is not used to create or revise estimates. The estimates previously made by the Company under 
Canadian GAAP were not revised for application of IFRS except where necessary to refl ect any difference 
in accounting policies.

c. Reconciliation between Canadian GAAP and IFRS 
In preparing the Company’s opening IFRS statement of fi nancial position, the Company has adjusted amounts 
reported previously in its consolidated fi nancial statements prepared in accordance with previous Canadian 
GAAP. An explanation of how the transition from previous Canadian GAAP to IFRS has affected the Company’s 
fi nancial position and equity is set out in the following tables in note 32(d) and the notes that accompany the 
tables in note 32(f ).

IFRS 1 requires reconciliation disclosures that explain how the transition from Canadian GAAP to IFRS has 

affected the Company’s previously reported consolidated fi nancial statements prepared in accordance with 
previous Canadian GAAP for the year ended December 31, 2010. An explanation of how the transition from 
previous Canadian GAAP to IFRSs has affected the Company’s fi nancial position, equity, statement of earnings 
and comprehensive income and material adjustments to cash fl ows and equity is set out in the following tables 
in note 32(e) and the notes that accompany the tables in note 32(f ).

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   119

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     119

d. Reconciliation between Canadian GAAP and IFRS 
Below is the Company’s consolidated statement of fi nancial position as at the transition date of January 1, 2010 
under IFRS.

As at January 1, 2010 (date of Transition) 
(Thousands of US$) 

Assets
Current assets
  Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 

  Amounts receivable 
  Current portion of future income tax asset 

Inventories 

  Prepaid expenses 

Property, plant and equipment 
Goodwill 
Long-term receivables and other 
Long-term inventories 
Deferred income tax asset 

Total assets 

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilities
  Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
  Taxes payable 
  Current portion of provision for reclamation 
  Current portion of future income tax liability 

Provision for reclamation 
Deferred income tax liability 

Shareholders’ equity
Share capital 

  Contributed surplus 
  Retained earnings 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

notes 

Previous 
Canadian 
GAAP 

Effect of 
transition 
to IFRS 

IFRS opening
Financial
Position

(iv) 

(ii) 

(iv) 

(iii) 

(i) 
(iv) 

(i) 
(iv) 

(iii) 

$  176,904 
145,971 
44,281 
1,555 
151,822 
11,718 
  532,251 
  380,979 
129,705 
6,554 
23,120 
1,418 
  541,776 
$ 1,074,027 

$ 

49,178 
35,066 
8,169 
7,662 
  100,075 
21,533 
– 
21,533 

  646,081 
34,298 
  272,040 
  952,419 
$ 1,074,027 

– 
– 
– 
(1,555) 
– 
– 
(1,555) 
1,271 
– 
– 
– 
(1,356) 
(85) 
(1,640) 

(80) 
– 
(770) 
(7,662) 
(8,512) 
5,013 
8,700 
13,713 

– 
1,078 
(7,919) 
(6,841) 
(1,640) 

$  176,904
145,971
44,281
–
151,822
11,718
  530,696
  382,250
129,705
6,554
23,120
62
  541,691
$ 1,072,387

$ 

49,098
35,066
7,399
–
91,563
26,546
8,700
35,246

  646,081
35,376
  264,121
  945,578
$ 1,072,387

Below is the reconciliation of the Company’s consolidated statement of opening equity as at the transition date 
of January 1, 2010. 

As at January 1, 2010 (date of Transition) 
(Thousands of US$) 

Total equity previously reported under Canadian GAAP 
  Provision for reclamation 
  Cash settled share-based compensations 

Income taxes recoverable 

Total equity under IFRS at Transition 

notes 

(i) 
(iii) 
(iv) 

Previous 
Canadian 
GAAP 

$  952,419 
– 
– 
– 
$  952,419 

Effect of 
transition 
to IFRS 

IFRS opening
Financial
Position

– 
(2,973) 
80 
(3,948) 
(6,841) 

$  952,419
(2,973)
80
(3,948)
$  945,578

120     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   120

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
e. Reconciliation between Canadian GAAP and IFRS as at December 31, 2010
Reconciliation of fi nancial position between Canadian GAAP and IFRS 

As at December 31, 2010 
(Thousands of US$) 

Assets
Current assets
  Cash and cash equivalents 
Short-term investments 

  Restricted cash 
  Amounts receivable 
  Current portion of Deferred income tax asset 

Inventories 

  Prepaid expenses 

Property, plant and equipment 
Goodwill 
Long-term receivables and other 
Long-term inventories 
Deferred income tax asset 

Total assets 

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilities
  Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 
  Taxes payable 
  Current portion of provision for reclamation 

  Provision for reclamation 

Shareholders’ equity
Share capital 

  Contributed surplus 
  Retained earnings 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity 

notes 

Previous 
Canadian 
GAAP 

Effect of
transition
to IFRS 

(iv) 

(ii) 

(iv) 

(iii) 

(i) 

(i) 

$  330,737 
82,278 
795 
97,281 
1,601 
183,207 
22,221 
  718,120 
  515,949 
129,705 
17,299 
12,877 
2,722 
  678,552 
$ 1,396,672 

$ 

65,221 
27,354 
9,728 
  102,303 
24,891 

  655,178 
33,240 
  581,060 
  1,269,478 
$ 1,396,672 

– 
– 
– 
3,281 
(1,601) 
(1,574) 
– 
106 
3,070 
– 
– 
– 
645 
3,715 
3,821 

5,688 
– 
(175) 
5,513 
5,989 

– 
587 
(8,268) 
(7,681) 
3,821 

Reconciliation of Consolidated statement of earnings and comprehensive income 

For the year ended December 31, 2010 
(Thousands of US$) 

Comprehensive income under Canadian GAAP 
Provision for reclamation 
Depreciation 
Share-based compensation 
Exchange difference on deferred income taxes 
Deferred income taxes 
Provision for constructive obligation 
Net revenue from sales of gold 
Comprehensive income under IFRS 

notes 

(i) 
(ii) 
(iii) 
(iv) 
(iv) 
(v) 
(vi) 

Previous 
Canadian 
GAAP 

$  322,640 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
– 
$  322,640 

Effect of
transition
to IFRS 

– 
444 
(183) 
1,087 
(194) 
3,188 
(6,365) 
1,674 
(349) 

IFRS

$  330,737
82,278
795
  100,562
–
181,633
22,221
  718,226
  519,019
129,705
17,299
12,877
3,367
  682,267
$ 1,400,493

$ 

70,909
27,354
9,553
107,816
30,880

  655,178
33,827
  572,792
  1,261,797
$ 1,400,493

IFRS

$  322,640
444
(183)
1,087
(194)
3,188
(6,365)
1,674
$  322,291

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   121

27/03/12   8:21 AM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     121

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
f. Changes in accounting policies 
The following paragraphs explain the signifi cant differences between Canadian GAAP and the IFRS accounting 
policies applied by the Company. These differences result in the adjustments in the prior tables. The descriptive 
caption next to each numbered item below corresponds to the same numbered and descriptive caption in the 
tables in (32(d) and (e)). 

i.  Provision for reclamation and rehabilitation (Decommissioning Liabilities)

Under IFRS, a liability must be recognized at the time when the entity becomes legally or constructively 
obliged to rehabilitate a disturbance resulting from mining activities, while under Canadian GAAP, a liability 
is only recognized when the entity is legally bound. Discount rates used should refl ect the risks specifi c to 
the decommissioning provision. Unlike IFRSs, under Canadian GAAP discount rates for asset retirement 
obligations are based on the entity’s credit-adjusted risk-free rate. IFRS requires re-measurement of the 
liability at each reporting date whereas Canadian GAAP requires re-measurement of the liability in the event 
of changes in the amount or timing of cash fl ows required to settle the obligation. Over and above this, IAS 37, 
Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets, requires the re-measurement of the provision for 
reclamation and rehabilitation if there is a change in the current market-based discount rate. However under 
Canadian GAAP HB 3110 Asset Retirement Obligations, the provision for reclamation and rehabilitation is not 
adjusted for changes in the discount rate. 
  The use of the current discount rate for all changes in estimates combined with the requirement to 
re-measure the liability at each reporting date under IFRS signifi cantly simplifi es the process required to 
measure any restoration liabilities as there will no longer be a need to record and account for separate layers 
of the original liability and each subsequent upward revision in estimated cash fl ows. As a result, the provision 
for reclamation and rehabilitation under IFRS has been re-measured using the risk-free discount rate in effect 
at January 1, 2010 of 3.85% at Kumtor and 3.39% at Boroo, resulting in an adjustment of $4.2 million recorded 
as an increase to the provision for reclamation with corresponding offset of $2.9 million to equity and 
$1.3 million to property, plant and equipment.
  As at December 31, 2010, the ARO liability under IFRS has been re-measured using the risk-free discount 
rate in effect at December 31, 2010 of 3.18% at Kumtor and 2.0% at Boroo, resulting in an adjustment of 
$2.5 million recorded as an increase to the provision for reclamation with an offsetting increase of $0.5 million 
to accretion expense (fi nance cost) and $2.0 million increase to ARO asset. 

ii.  Property, Plant and Equipment

IFRIC 1, Changes in Decommissioning, Restoration and Similar Liabilities, contains guidance on accounting 
for changes in decommissioning, restoration and similar liabilities due to timing in the revision of estimated 
outfl ows and revisions to the risk-free discount rate. Where changes occur, these changes are required to be 
capitalized as part of the cost of the underlying assets and depreciated prospectively over the remaining life 
of the asset to which they relate. 
  Due to the adjustments to the provision for reclamation discussed in (i) above, the book value of the property, 
plant and equipment at January 1, 2010 increased by $1.3 million and additional $2.0 million increase at 
December 31, 2010. 
  Additional depreciation expense of $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2010 relating to depreciation 
on the ARO asset recognized, as noted above, was recorded. 

iii. Share-based payments

IFRS 1 requires the Company to apply IFRS 2, Share-Based Payments, to all equity instruments of share-based 
payments that have not vested at the transition date. IFRS requires that cash-settled share based payments be 
accounted for using a fair value method, as opposed to an intrinsic value under Canadian GAAP.

IFRS 2 was applied for applicable unvested stock options granted prior to the Transition Date at January 1, 
2010. Consequently, as a result of the difference in measurement of the equity-settled share-based compensation 
at January 1, 2010 on which IFRS require different measurement for stock options that have graded vesting 
features compared with Canadian GAAP that value the stock options as a single grant, an adjustment of 
$1.1 million was recorded to decrease opening retained earnings with offset to contributed surplus. 

122     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   122

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
IFRS 2 was applied to liabilities arising from cash-settled share-based payment transactions that existed at 
January 1, 2010. Consequently, as a result of the difference in measurement, as noted in note 3(o), outstanding 
liability related to the Company’s cash-settled share-based compensation was reduced by $0.1 million with 
offset to retained earnings.
  During the year ended December 31, 2010 share-based compensation expense recorded under Canadian 
GAAP was decreased by $1.1 million.

iv. Taxes

IAS 12, Taxes, contains different guidance related to the recognition and measurement of deferred income 
taxes. It requires the recognition of deferred income taxes in situations not required under Canadian GAAP. 
Specifi cally, a deferred tax liability (asset) is recognized for exchange gains and losses relating to foreign 
non-monetary assets and liabilities that are re-measured into the functional currency using historical exchange 
rates. Temporary differences are also recognized for the difference in tax bases between jurisdictions as 
a result of the intra-group transfer of assets. Furthermore, Canadian GAAP requires that the current and 
long-term portions of deferred income tax assets, and deferred income tax liabilities, be shown separately 
on the fi nancial statements, whereas IFRS does not. 
  As a result of differences in recognition and measurement under IFRS and Canadian GAAP, as at the 
Transition Date of January 1, 2010, a decrease in the amount of $2.9 million in the deferred income tax asset 
was refl ected and adjusted to opening retained earnings. In addition, $1.04 million of deferred income tax 
liability was recognized as the deferred income tax effect on differences between Canadian GAAP and IFRS, 
described in 32 (f ) (i) to (iii) above. These adjustments are associated with the Mongolian segment. 
  Furthermore, for the year ended December 31, 2010 the reported Canadian GAAP results were adjusted 
to refl ect deferred income tax recoveries of $3.2 million resulting from the IFRS method of determination 
of temporary differences related to the Mongolian segment. 

v.  Provision for constructive obligation

On transition to IFRS on January 1, 2010, there was no constructive obligation to recognize by the Company. 
However, as at December 31, 2010, the Company recorded $6.4 million representing the estimated amount to 
potentially settle a constructive obligation through the Company’s Community Development and Initiatives 
program. The Company’s subsidiary Boroo Gold LLC may have created an expectation that it would collaborate 
with the Government of Mongolia to build a maternity hospital in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar even though 
the expectation was not legally enforceable. Under IFRS, the expectation that the Company may be required 
to fund its share of the maternity hospital resulted in the Company recording a provision under IFRS.

vi. Revenue recognition

Under Canadian GAAP, revenues from the sale of gold and silver are recognized by the Company when risks 
and rewards of ownership have substantially passed (interpreted to mean title transfer), delivery is effected 
and when the Company has reasonable assurance with respect to measurement and collectability. Under IFRS, 
revenues from the sale of gold and silver are recognized when risks and rewards of ownership are transferred, 
which is defi ned by the Company to be at the point when the customer has taken delivery and pricing has been 
determined. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, provided it is 
probable that economic benefi t will fl ow to the Company and the revenue and costs, if applicable, can be 
measured reliably.
  There is no adjustment as at the Transition Date relating to the differences in revenue recognition. 
  For the year ended December 31, 2010 net revenue from sales of gold under IFRS increased by $1.7 million 
($3.3 million increase in revenue, $2.7 million increase to cost of sales and $1.1 million decrease to depreciation, 
depletion and amortization).

g. Statement of Cash Flows 
The IFRS transition adjustments noted above did not have a material impact on the presentation of the Company’s 
statement of cash fl ows.

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     123

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   123

27/03/12   8:21 AM

 
Defi nitions

MINERAL RESERVE

A mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of a measured or indicated mineral resource demonstrated 
by at least a preliminary feasibility study. This study must include adequate information on mining, processing, 
metallurgical, economic, and other relevant factors that demonstrate at the time of reporting, that economic 
extraction can be justifi ed. A mineral reserve includes diluting materials and allowances for losses that may 
occur when the material is mined. 

PROVEN MINERAL RESERVE

A proven mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of a measured mineral resource demonstrated by 
at least a preliminary feasibility study. This study must include adequate information on mining, processing, 
metallurgical, economic and other relevant factors that demonstrate at the time of reporting that economic 
extraction is justifi ed.

PROBABLE MINERAL RESERVE

A probable mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of an indicated, and in some circumstances a 
measured mineral resource demonstrated by at least a preliminary feasibility study. This study must include 
adequate information on mining, processing, metallurgical, economic, and other relevant factors that demonstrate 
at the time of reporting that economic extraction can be justifi ed.

MINERAL RESOURCE

A mineral resource is a concentration or occurrence of natural, solid, inorganic or fossilized organic material in 
or on the earth’s crust in such form and quantity and of such a grade or quality that has reasonable prospects for 
economic extraction. The location, quantity, grade, geological characteristics and continuity of a mineral resource 
are known, estimated or interpreted from specifi c geological evidence and knowledge.

MEASURED MINERAL RESOURCE

A measured mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, density, shape 
and physical characteristics are so well established that they can be estimated with confi dence suffi cient to allow 
the appropriate application of technical and economic parameters, to support production planning and evaluation 
of the economic viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration, sampling and 
testing information gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, 
workings and drill holes that are spaced closely enough to confi rm both geological and grade continuity. 

INDICATED MINERAL RESOURCE

An indicated mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity, grade or quality, density, 
shape and physical characteristics can be estimated with a level of confi dence suffi cient to allow the appropriate 
application of technical and economic parameters, to support mine planning and evaluation of the economic 
viability of the deposit. The estimate is based on detailed and reliable exploration and testing information 
gathered through appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes 
that are spaced closely enough for geological and grade continuity to be reasonably assumed.

124     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

59420_Centerra_Financials.indd   124

27/03/12   8:21 AM

INFERRED MINERAL RESOURCE

An inferred mineral resource is that part of a mineral resource for which quantity and grade or quality can be 
estimated on the basis of geological evidence and limited sampling and reasonably assumed but not verifi ed 
geological and grade continuity. The estimate is based on limited information and sampling gathered through 
appropriate techniques from locations such as outcrops, trenches, pits, workings and drill holes.

In this mineral reserves and resources statement Centerra uses a defi nition of classes of mineralization taking 

into account a maximum number of parameters of various natures. These parameters are: 

•  the precision of the estimate;
•  the economic feasibility of the project which relates not only to grades but to the volume of the reserves, 

the location, the chemistry of the expected ore, the price of the product, etc; and 

•  the legal status of the project and its possible evolution in the very near future.
Centerra’s mineral reserves include allowances for dilution, and mining and/or metallurgical recovery. 

No allowances have been applied to mineral resources. Stated mineral reserves and resources have been reported 
based on estimated quantities of mineralized material recoverable by established mining methods. This includes 
only deposits with mineral values in excess of cut-off grades used in normal mining operations. Centerra’s mineral 
reserves include material in place and on stockpiles. Only mineral reserves have demonstrated economic viability.
There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating mineral reserves and resources. The accuracy of any 
reserve and resource estimation is the function of the quality of available data and of engineering and geological 
interpretation and judgement. Results from drilling, testing and production, as well as material changes in gold 
prices, subsequent to the date of the estimate, may justify revision of such estimates.

Centerra’s classifi cation of mineral reserves and resources and the subcategories of each conforms to the 
defi nitions adopted by the CIM Council on August 20, 2000, which are incorporated by reference into NI 43-101, 
issued by the Canadian Securities Administrators. Centerra reports reserves and resources separately. The amount 
of reported resources does not include those amounts identifi ed as reserves. Mineral resources which are not 
mineral reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability.

2011_Centerra_Page 125-126.indd   125

Mar/31/2012   1:39 PM

2011 ANNUAL REPORT     125

Corporate Information

Exploration Offi ces

Centerra Gold Inc.
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
Bodi Tower
11th Floor,
Sukhbaatar Square
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
210646

Centerra Gold Inc. 
Cankaya, Ankara
Buyukesat Mahallesi
Cayhane Sokak No: 47/9
06700 Gaziosmanpasa
Cankaya, Ankara, Turkey

Centerra Gold Inc. 
Beijing Representative Offi ce
Beijing, China
1606 Full Tower
9 Dong San Huan Zhong Lu
Chaoyang District
Beijing, China 
100020

Operations Offi ces

Kumtor Operating Company
Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic
24 Ibraimov Street,
Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic 
720031

Boroo Gold LLC
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
P.O. Box 223,
Bodi Tower, 11th Floor
Sukhbaatar Square
Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia 
210648

Transfer Agent

For information on common 
share holdings, lost share 
certifi cates and address 
changes, contact:

CIBC Mellon Trust Company
c/o Canadian Stock 
Transfer Company Inc.
320 Bay Street
P.O. Box 1
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5H 4A6
North America
phone toll free:
1.800.387.0825 or
416.643.5500
www.cibcmellon.com

Auditors

KPMG LLP
333 Bay Street
Suite 4600
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5H 2S5

Stock Exchange Listing

Toronto Stock Exchange
Symbol: CG

Investor Relations Contact

John W. Pearson
Vice President Investor Relations

Corporate Headquarters

Suite 1500
1 University Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
Canada M5J 2P1
T 416.204.1953
F 416.204.1954
www.centerragold.com

Directors

Patrick M. James (1), (2), (7)
Niyazbek B. Aldashev (1), (3), (6)
Ian G. Austin (1), (3)
Raphael A. Girard (2), (5), (6)
Karybek Ibraev (4), (5), (6)
Stephen A. Lang
John W. Lill (4), (6)
Amangeldy Muraliev (2), (4)
Sheryl K. Pressler (1), (2)
Terry V. Rogers (3), (5), (6)
Bruce V. Walter (4), (5), (8)
Anthony J. Webb (2), (3)

 (1)  Member of the Audit Committee
 (2)   Member of the Nominating and Corporate 

Governance Committee

 (3)   Member of the Human Resources 
and Compensation Committee

 (4)   Member of the Safety, Health and Environmental 

Committee

 (5)  Member of the Reserves Committee
 (6)  Member of Corporate Social Responsibility Committee
 (7)  Mr. James is Chair of the Board of Directors
 (8)  Mr. Walter is Vice-Chair of the Board of Directors

Offi cers and Management

Stephen A. Lang
President and Chief Executive Offi cer

Jeffrey S. Parr
Vice President and Chief Financial Offi cer

Ronald H. Colquhoun
Vice President and Chief Operating Offi cer

Ian Atkinson
Senior Vice President, Global Exploration

Frank H. Herbert
General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

Dennis C. Kwong
Vice President, Business Development

John A. Ross
Vice President, Human Resources

Matthew D. Bliss
Vice President, Environment and Sustainability

David A. Groves
Vice President, Exploration

John W. Pearson
Vice President, Investor Relations

Gordon D. Reid
Vice President, Operations

John M. Kazakoff
President, Boroo Gold Company

Michael Fischer
President, Kumtor Operating Company

Andrew A. Sazanov
President, Kumtor Gold Company

126     CENTERRA GOLD INC.

2011_Centerra_Page 125-126.indd   126

Mar/31/2012   1:39 PM

Corporate Profi le

Centerra is a Canadian-based gold mining company engaged in operating, developing, acquiring and 
exploring gold properties primarily in Asia, the former Soviet Union and other emerging markets 
worldwide. The Company is the largest Western-based gold producer in Central Asia with two operating 
gold mines located in the Kyrgyz Republic and Mongolia. In 2011, Centerra produced 642,380 ounces 
of gold at a total cash cost of $502 per ounce produced.

Centerra’s objective is to establish annual gold production of 1.5 million ounces and build shareholder 
value by maximizing the potential of its current properties, expanding its portfolio of gold mining 
operations, continuing to increase its reserves and resources and add additional exploration properties.  
Centerra’s shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol CG. The Company is 
headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Contents

  2  Financial Highlights 

  4  President’s Message

  6  Reserves

  8   Platform for Growth

  11   2011 Year-end Gold Reserve and Resource Summary

  12   Kumtor

  14   Boroo

  16   Corporate Responsibility

  17   Management’s Discussion and Analysis  

  74   Report of Management’s Accountability

  75   Independent Auditors’ Report

  76  Consolidated Financial Statements

  80  Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements

 124  Definitions 

 126  Corporate Information

All dollar amounts are expressed in U.S. dollars in this report, except as otherwise indicated.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-looking Statements

Certain information contained or incorporated by reference herein which are not historical facts are 
“forward-looking statements” within the meaning of certain securities laws, including the Securities 
Act (Ontario). Such forward-looking statements include forecasted gold production and cash costs for 
2012, expected 2012 capital expenditures, 2012 mining and exploration plans and forecasted expenditures 
on community investments. Such forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and other factors 
that could cause actual results, performance, prospects and opportunities to differ materially from those 
expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. For a detailed discussion of such risks and other 
factors, see the Management’s Discussion and Analysis included in this Annual Report and the Company’s 
most recent Annual Information Form which is available on SEDAR.

Although Centerra believes that the assumptions inherent in these forward-looking statements are 
reasonable, the reader should not place undue reliance on these statements. Forward-looking information 
is as of March 27, 2012. For a detailed discussion of the key assumptions and risk factors, please refer to the 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis included in this Annual Report. Centerra disclaims any intention 
or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, 
future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable laws.

Printed in Canada using VOC-free inks.

Centerra Cover.indd   2

02/04/12   6:45 AM

C
e
n
t
e
r
r
a
G
o
l
d
I
n
c

.

2
0
1
1
A
n
n
u
a
l

R
e
p
o
r
t

   Solid. Gold.

Centerra Gold Inc.  2011 Annual Report

Suite 1500
1 University Avenue
Toronto, Ontario
Canada  M5J 2P1
T 416.204.1953
F 416.204.1954

www.centerragold.com

Centerra Cover.indd  1

02/04/12  6:45 AM