(Hyperthetical statement not backed by facts) .... Or the...

(Hyperthetical statement not backed by facts) .... Or the alternative there's no offtake partner hence why it's "almost here".

You dont know for a fact that there's more than one Interested party and If you do then your way to close to the company to be making comments lIke that - this is a misleading statement.

It's very normal practice for an offtake partner to negotiate a test shipment for a few reasons. To test their procedures, to test the seller for delivery method to agreed location and timing, to test quality themselves and not trust the sellers 'independent' report - this is very normal when entering a long term agreement. This is called a 'test shipment'.

My opinions, no advice given.