SO4, operator of the Lake Way Sulphate of Potash (SOP) project in Western Australia’s Goldfields region, has reached a significant commercial milestone, announcing its first commercial export shipments of premium quality SOP.
This achievement follows SO4’s inaugural domestic deliveries in June and marks a pivotal advancement in the operational and commercial success of the Lake Way project.
Overcoming sector-specific challenges and benefiting from the backing of Sev.en Global Investments, SO4 now stands as Western Australia’s sole SOP producer.
Since Sev.en Global Investments acquired the Lake Way project in October 2022, SO4 has delivered SOP of exceptional purity, boasting 53% K₂O content — surpassing industry standards — and containing ultra-low chloride levels (<0.1%).
The nutrient-rich product is tailored for high-value crops such as fruits, nuts, and vegetables, supporting soil health particularly in regions impacted by water scarcity.
Initial international shipments have already reached Mexico, Peru, Spain, Ecuador, and Chile.
Domestically, SO4 continues to expand its distribution network with deliveries to Western Australian clients in tandem with its growing global reach.
Mark Sykes, Country Manager – Australia at Sev.en Global Investments, highlighted the significance: “This is a truly transformative moment for SO4 and the Lake Way project.
“Achieving successful commercial production and making our first deliveries is a powerful validation of our technology and the quality of our product while establishing a strong foundation for the future.”
He further noted: “Lake Way is fully operational and capable of delivering premium SOP to both a global and domestic market that is increasingly seeking reliable and sustainable sources.
“With a production capacity of more than 200,000 tonnes per year, we are uniquely positioned to meet Australia’s entire demand.
“Australia has historically imported every tonne of SOP, so we are not only supplying this critical domestic need but also exporting Australian potash, putting it firmly on the global stage. This is a critical part of building Australia’s local SOP sector.”
SO4 is ramping up production, exceeding sales of 1,800 tonnes to date, with a further 2,000 tonnes set for delivery in the coming month, amid a steady stream of both export and domestic orders.
The site currently employs more than 140 workers, with plans to expand up to 250 as operations grow.
Matthew Thompson, CEO, SO4, emphasised the workforce’s impact: “Our expanding workforce has been instrumental in reaching this milestone.
“Their dedication, skill, and commitment are driving the success of Lake Way as we scale up production, all while maintaining our longstanding commitment to sustainability.”
A core aspect of the Lake Way project is its sustainable solar evaporation process, a method that offers a dramatic environmental advantage versus conventional potash production.
This process reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, supporting broader global climate objectives.
Waste is minimised, and the project is committed to long-term environmental stewardship in the Goldfields ecosystem.
SO4’s sustainability ethos extends beyond operational practices to genuine community engagement.
By working closely with the Martu people — the Traditional Owners of Lake Way — via the Tarlka Matuwa Piarku Aboriginal Corporation (TMPAC), SO4 has established a comprehensive Indigenous Engagement Strategy.
This initiative integrates cultural heritage protection, creates employment pathways, and fosters Aboriginal business development.
This milestone not only signals SO4’s commercial momentum but also reinforces its broader commitment to delivering long-term value — economically, environmentally, and socially — through the Lake Way project.
