As part of its plan to invest in assets that are long term, low cost and have expendable resources, BHP sees potash as an ideal fit for its portfolio of commodity products. The global mining giant, BHP Billiton is keen on developing potash projects in Western Canada into a world class resources. 
Graham Kerr, head of BHP Billiton’s Diamond and Specialty Products business said that despite highlighted priority areas, the company was interested in exploring fresh avenues over the next five years. This is why the potash projects in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan were just what the company was looking for.
Jansen is the company’s flagship potash project in Saskatchewan. It is expected to begin production in 2015. Fertilizer is also likely to be produced by Boulder and Young potash projects of the company as the exploration work is finished.
Potash is the common name for potassium carbonate and various mined and manufactured salts that contain the element potassium in water-soluble form. About 93% of world potash consumption is used in fertilizers, with small amounts used in manufacturing soaps, glass, ceramics, chemical dyes, drugs, synthetic rubber, de-icing agents, water softeners and explosives.