Mining giant BHP Billiton on Monday abandoned its $39-billion takeover bid for fertiliser-maker Potash Corporation.

Reported fresh attempts to outdo BHP Billiton’s $39-billion bid for Canadian group Potash Corp look unwieldy, analysts said.

China’s top chemicals company Sinochem is working hard to come up with a plan challenge to BHP Billiton’s $39-billion bid for Potash Corp.

BHP Billiton’s $39-billion battle to take control of Canada’s Potash Corp is expected to drag on into next year.