Highfield receives permit for MOP mine in Spain

Prospective potash producer Highfield Resources has received its environmental permit for the 1mn t/yr Muga potash project in Spain.

The permit was key to move the project forward, and the company will now work on securing a mining concession and construction permits, as well as completing the final project design.

Highfield expects construction to start in one year, with first production projected to start at the end of 2022. The project is in a favourable location, close to port and the premium MOP market of west Europe. The region is served by some nearby existing mines, but European MOP production is declining, as many of the mines are expensive to operate.

Mineral resources at Muga are pegged at 235mn t of 12.3pc K20, with 109mn t of proven and probable reserves at 10.2pc K20. The project is currently for an MOP mine, but it could potentially produce both MOP and SOP.