Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) has entered into a definitive agreement with Anglo American plc to invest in the Woodsmith fertiliser resource project in the United Kingdom and collaborate on the development of its feasibility study.
The Woodsmith project, located in Northeast England, hosts one of the world’s largest polyhalite resources and is expected to support stable operations for more than 60 years. It is set to become one of the UK’s most significant new mining developments in decades. Anglo American has been advancing the project since 2020 as a core component of its long-term growth strategy.
Polyhalite is a natural multi-nutrient fertiliser containing potassium, sulphur, magnesium and calcium. It is characterised by low chloride content and comparatively lower greenhouse gas emissions during production. The ore body is naturally high grade and does not require beneficiation, reducing water consumption and eliminating mining waste, factors that contribute to the project’s lower environmental footprint. Agronomic trials conducted globally over the past decade have demonstrated improvements in crop yield and soil health.
Under the agreement, Mitsubishi Corporation will contribute funding to the feasibility study and participate in pilot sales to validate the product’s market potential and build demand. The study will assess development plans, operational parameters, economic viability and social and environmental impacts. Mitsubishi will also leverage its global food and agriculture networks, including facilitating agronomic trials through its group companies.
The collaboration will allow Mitsubishi to evaluate potential further equity participation at the time of Anglo American’s Final Investment Decision, currently anticipated from 2028.
Demand for fertiliser minerals is expected to grow over the medium to long term, driven by global population growth, evolving dietary trends and increasing focus on food security. Sustainable fertiliser products are also gaining importance as agriculture faces mounting pressure to reduce environmental impacts and adopt responsible practices.
