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Atalaya Mining confirmed that operations had restarted at its Proyecto Riotinto copper mine in southwestern Spain.

The Madrid government decreed at the end of March the closure of all but essential industries in its fight to combat COVID-19, with mining not deemed essential.

However, the mining department of the Junta de Andalucía has now told Atalaya that the definition of essential industry is extended to mining as it is a required supplier to other essential industries.  

All health and security measures imposed by the government remain in place for the workforce on site. 

Atalaya will maximise the stockpiles available on site, defer all non-essential activities and focus on the production of concentrates to fulfil national and international commitments to supply other industries.

The shutdown was envisaged to last until at least April 10.