Emmerson, a Morocco-focused potash development company, has awarded the balance of the Basic Engineering package of the Khemisset Potash Project to Reminex, the engineering arm of the Moroccan mining company Managem Group.

The contract comes after Emmerson awarded a Basic Engineering package for the project's Mineral Processing Facility to Barr Engineering in November 2021.

Emmerson expects to launch production of the facility in early-2024.

The agreement with Reminex marks the end of the project's pre-construction phase. It will comprise six packages covering the mine's water and power supply, site access to the nearby highway junction and portals, general infrastructure and tailings storage.

Graham Clarke, chief executive officer of Emmerson, said the award of the balance of the Basic Engineering was the result of a "thorough competitive tender process."

Clarke said Reminex's "extensive experience" in the Moroccan mining sector would be critical for adapting the Khemisset Project to "local standards."

Additionally, Clarke predicted that 2022 would be "a transformative year" for Emmerson as it enters "the final workstream towards construction" of the Khemisset Potash Project.

"We are expecting to make progress concurrently on drilling activities, Basic Engineering, discussions with other potential equity and lending banks, preparations for EPCM execution and finalisation of permitting activities," Clarke said.

"The Emmerson team looks forward to working closely with Reminex to build long-term benefits for the kingdom of Morocco."