BHP Billiton warns that the potassium fertilizer project may experience delays and cost increases. It may sell its nickel business.

Mining giant BHP warned that its large potash project in Canada may experience cost increases and delays, and it also indicated that it may sell its nickel business in Australia. Meanwhile, the company announced that its annual production of iron ore and copper has reached a historical high. By market value, BHP, headquartered in Australia, is the world's largest mining company. The company stated on Friday that its Jansen potash project in Saskatchewan, Canada is facing cost increases, which is currently its only major development project under construction. The miner now expects the construction cost of the first phase of the project to be between $7 billion and $7.4 billion, higher than the previous estimate of $5.7 billion. The company may also revert to its earlier target of starting production in mid-2027, rather than the recently set target of production by the end of next year. BHP also stated on Friday that it is evaluating the potential sale of its nickel business. In its quarterly report, BHP stated, "Any divestment decision will depend on the evaluation of other options, including continuing temporary suspension, restarting, or closure."