Afry to Lead Pre-Feasibility Study for Sakatti Mining Project in Finland

Anglo American has appointed Afry, a Sweden-based engineering firm, to lead the pre-feasibility study for its Sakatti copper mining project in Finland. This study will clarify the project’s economic and technical details. It also sets the foundation for the next feasibility phase, which is expected to finish by the end of 2026. The Sakatti project aims to build a low-carbon, highly automated underground mine with minimal surface impact. This mine is vital for Europe’s growing need for critical minerals that support the green transition.

Advancing the Sakatti Project with Afry’s Expertise

Afry’s expertise in sustainable mining engineering makes it an ideal choice to lead the Sakatti pre-feasibility study. Nicholas Oksanen, Executive Vice President of Afry’s Global Industry Division, stated the company’s dedication to responsible mining and Europe’s green goals. The study will sharpen design and economic evaluations. This ensures the project meets environmental standards while remaining efficient.

Anglo American plans to begin mining operations in the early 2030s. However, the company first must complete important regulatory steps. These include environmental impact assessments and Natura 2000 evaluations. Additionally, Anglo American submitted a mining permit application to Finland’s Mining Authority, Tukes. Pertti Lamberg, CEO of Anglo American Finland, said Sakatti will be part of their FutureSmart mines. This portfolio focuses on automation, low carbon emissions, and reduced surface footprint.

The Strategic Importance of the Sakatti Project in Europe’s Mineral Supply

The Sakatti copper deposit gained strategic status under the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) in March 2025. This status helps streamline permitting processes. It also secures supply chains for critical raw materials in Europe. Located 15 km north of Sodankylä, Sakatti partially lies within the Viiankiaapa Mire Reserve Natura 2000 site. The project balances resource extraction with environmental care.

Geological exploration at Sakatti has been ongoing since 2009. This long-term work confirms the deposit’s significance for both Anglo American and the EU’s mineral supply chain. Recently, Anglo American sold its stake in Valterra Platinum for $2.5 billion. This move reallocates capital to advance projects like Sakatti. It also reflects Anglo American’s focus on sustainable and strategically important mining.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Afry’s leadership in the Sakatti pre-feasibility study marks a key milestone in Europe’s push for greener and more secure mineral supplies. As copper demand rises due to electrification and renewable energy growth, projects like Sakatti will shape mining’s future. Anglo American’s focus on automation and low-carbon operations fits global decarbonization goals. Furthermore, the project’s CRMA status should speed up permitting, lower risks, and attract investment. Stakeholders should watch Sakatti closely as it advances toward production in the early 2030s. It has the potential to transform the European copper supply landscape.
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Afry leads Sakatti pre-feasibility study, advancing Anglo American’s low-carbon copper mine for Europe’s green transition.