Spain's government issued a Royal Decree on March 29 ordering the suspension of non-essential business operations, which initially included mining.
"Further to the Royal Decree, the company received, on 3 April 2020, from the mining department of the Junta de Andalucía, clarifications that the definition of essential industry is extended to mining as it is a required supplier to other essential industries included in the Royal Decree. Accordingly, operations at Proyecto Riotinto have now recommenced," Atalaya said on Monday.
The company said strict health and safety measures were still mandatory for workers on site.
"Associated to these measures, Atalaya will maximize 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," said Atalaya.
