REG - Rio Tinto - Second quarter production results
19/07/2023 07:00
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RNS Number : 4399G Rio Tinto PLC 19 July 2023
Rio Tinto releases second quarter production results
19 July 2023
Rio Tinto Chief Executive Jakob Stausholm said: "We built further momentum in
our Pilbara iron ore business for the quarter, and now expect to deliver
shipments in the upper half of our guidance range for the year. The ramp-up of
the Oyu Tolgoi underground mine progressed ahead of plan, and we remain on
track to more than triple its copper production by the end of the decade.
Production downgrades during the quarter highlight that we still have much
more to do elsewhere, as we roll out the Safe Production System to create
stability and achieve excellence across our global portfolio.
"We continued to take disciplined measures to grow in the materials the world
needs for the energy transition, also with investments to expand our low
carbon aluminium production and underground copper production at Kennecott.
"We are taking practical steps and making investments to decarbonise, being
the first to convert an open pit mine to renewable diesel at our Boron
operations, signing a memorandum of understanding with Baowu to explore
decarbonisation of the steel value chain and delivering first production from
our ground-breaking BlueSmelting demonstration plant at Sorel-Tracy in Quebec
in July."
Production* Q2 vs Q2 vs Q1 H1 vs H1
2022
2023
2022
2023 2023
Pilbara iron ore shipments (100% basis) Mt 79.1 -1 % -4 % 161.7 +7 %
Pilbara iron ore production (100% basis) Mt 81.3 +3 % +2 % 160.5 +7 %
Bauxite Mt 13.5 -5 % +12 % 25.6 -8 %
Aluminium kt 814 +11 % +4 % 1,598 +9 %
Mined copper (consolidated basis) kt 145 -1 % 0 % 290 -1 %
Titanium dioxide slag kt 303 +4 % +6 % 589 +4 %
IOC** iron ore pellets and concentrate Mt 2.1 -21 % -18 % 4.6 -8 %
*Rio Tinto share unless otherwise stated
**Iron Ore Company of Canada
Q2 2023 operational highlights and other key announcements
• Our all-injury frequency rate of 0.36 was a small increase from
the second quarter of 2022 (0.35), and from the prior quarter (0.35).
Investigations are underway following significant process safety incidents.
There were two incidents at our Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium (RTIT) Sorel-Tracy
complex which did not result in injuries. The Kennecott operation experienced
an escape of furnace gas during the maintenance shut, where all treated people
have been cleared. We are heightening our focus on managing these risks and
continue to prioritise the safety, health and wellbeing of our workforce, and
communities where we operate.
• Pilbara operations produced 81.3 million tonnes (100% basis) in
the second quarter, 3% higher than the second quarter of 2022 as Gudai-Darri
achieved sustained nameplate capacity during the period. Shipments were 79.1
million tonnes (100% basis), 1% lower than the corresponding period of 2022,
reflecting the impact of planned major maintenance at the Dampier port and a
train derailment. With continued operational improvements across the Pilbara
system, and the implementation of the Safe Production System, full year
shipments are now expected to be in the upper half of the original 320 to 335
million tonne range.
• Bauxite production of 13.5 million tonnes was 5% lower than the
second quarter of 2022 as our Weipa operations were impacted by the
higher-than-average first quarter rainfall, which continued to reduce pit
access and led to longer haul distances. Production was further affected by
equipment downtime at both Weipa and Gove. As a result, our bauxite full year
production is expected to be at the lower end of our 54 to 57 million tonne
range, as we implement plans to recover lost production at both operations
through the remainder of the year.
• Aluminium production of 0.8 million tonnes was 11% higher than the
second quarter of 2022 as we benefited from the continued ramp-up of the
Kitimat smelter. Recovery at the Boyne and Kitimat smelters is progressing to
plan with full ramp-up expected to be completed later in the year. All our
other smelters continued to demonstrate stable performance during the quarter.
• On 12 June, we announced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-to-expand-its-ap60-low-carbon-aluminium-smelter-in-quebec)
an investment of $1.1 billion to expand our AP60 aluminium smelter equipped
with low-carbon technology at Complexe Jonquière in Canada. The total
investment includes up to $113 million of financial support from the Quebec
government. This expansion will coincide with the gradual closure of potrooms
at the Arvida smelter on the same site. While at our Alma smelter in
Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, we commenced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-begins-construction-of-its-new-billet-casting-center-in-alma-)
construction to increase our capacity to cast low-carbon, high-value aluminium
billets.
• Mined copper production of 145 thousand tonnes (on a consolidated
basis), was 1% lower than the second quarter of 2022. We benefited from the
continued ramp-up of the high grade underground mine at Oyu Tolgoi. However,
this benefit was more than offset by the continued operation of Kennecott's
concentrator at reduced rates, as we recovered from a conveyor failure in
March 2023, and unplanned maintenance, and lower crusher and conveyor
availability, at Escondida.
• Refined copper guidance has been reduced to 160 to 190 thousand
tonnes (previously 180 to 210 thousand tonnes) and our copper C1 unit cost
guidance has been raised to 180 to 200 US cents/lb (from 160 to 180 US
cents/lb) as completion of the rebuild of the Kennecott smelter is now
expected in September 2023 (previously August 2023). The extension of the
rebuild is due to the addition of a full rebuild of the flash converting
furnace to the scope, which is expected to further improve asset stability and
process safety management.
• On 20 June, we announced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-invests-to-strengthen-copper-supply-in-us)
$498 million of funding to deliver underground development and infrastructure
for an area known as the North Rim Skarn(1) (NRS) at Kennecott. Production
from the NRS will commence in 2024 and is expected to ramp up over two years,
to deliver ~250 thousand tonnes of additional mined copper over the next 10
years(2) alongside open cut operations.
• Titanium dioxide slag production of 303 thousand tonnes was 4%
higher than the second quarter of 2022, due to improved operational
performance at our smelters. Notwithstanding, our RTIT Quebec Operations
experienced two incidents in separate furnaces in June and July which we are
investigating. Given these investigations and weaker market conditions, our
full year production is expected to be at the lower end of the 1.1 to 1.4
million tonne range.
• IOC production was 21% lower than the second quarter of 2022 as we
lost ~3.5 weeks of production in June, primarily due to wildfires in Northern
Quebec, together with a slightly extended shutdown. Operations have resumed,
however our full year production guidance has been reduced to 10.0 to 11.0
million tonnes (previously 10.5 to 11.5 million tonnes), and remains subject
to further disruption from fire conditions.
• At our Rincon lithium project in Argentina, our $140 million
estimate and schedule to develop the starter plant remains under review in
response to cost escalation.
• In the second quarter, we commenced deployment of the Safe
Production System at a further two sites, taking the total to 20 sites. The
Safe Production System focuses on continuously improving safety, strengthening
employee engagement and sustainably lifting operational performance across our
global portfolio. While we still have a lot to do to see sustainable
improvement, site deployments are rolling out according to plan and we expect
to be at the upper end of our range of four to eight new sites in 2023.
• On 13 June, we an
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-executive-team-change)
nounced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-executive-team-change)
that Ivan Vella, Chief Executive, Aluminium, has accepted a new position
outside of Rio Tinto and will leave in December 2023. He will continue to lead
Aluminium while a robust process to identify his successor is undertaken but
has stepped down from the Group's executive committee.
• We saw a cash outflow from an increase in working capital of circa
$0.9 billion in the first half of 2023, reflecting a build in blasted and mine
stocks in the Pilbara to support overall system health, and higher spares and
stores (including seasonality due to the Diavik winter road). Payables were
also lower due to the timing of spend, and normal volatility in amounts due to
JV partners and employees. Operating cash flow was also impacted by lower
dividends from Escondida during the first half ($0.3 billion in H1 2023; $0.6
billion in H1 2022).
All figures in this report are unaudited. All currency figures in this report
are US dollars, and comments refer to Rio Tinto's share of production, unless
otherwise stated.
(1)The NRS Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, together with the Lower
Commercial Skarn (LCS) Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, form the
Underground Skarns Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves.
(2)This production target for 2023 to 2033 is underpinned 25% by Probable Ore
Reserves, 9% by Indicated Resources, and 66% by Inferred Resources. Mined
copper is reported as total recoverable metal. These estimates of Mineral
Resources and Ore Reserves were reported in a release dated 20 June 2023
titled "Rio Tinto Kennecott Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves" (Table 1
Release) which is available on Rio Tinto's website at resources & reserves
(riotinto.com), and have been prepared by Competent Persons in accordance with
the requirements of the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration
Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, 2012 (JORC Code) and the ASX
Listing Rules.
2023 guidance
Rio Tinto production share, unless otherwise stated 2022 H1 2023 2023 2023
Actuals Actuals Previous Current
Pilbara iron ore (shipments, 100% basis) (Mt) 322 161.7 320 to 335 320 to 335(1)
Bauxite (Mt) 55 25.6 54 to 57 54 to 57(2)
Alumina (Mt) 7.5 3.7 7.7 to 8.0 7.4 to 7.7
Aluminium (Mt) 3.0 1.6 3.1 to 3.3 Unchanged
Mined copper (kt)(3) 521 290 590 to 640 Unchanged
Refined copper (kt) 209 95 180 to 210 160 to 190
Diamonds (M carats) 4.7 1.9 3.0 to 3.8 Unchanged
Titanium dioxide slag (Mt) 1.2 0.6 1.1 to 1.4 1.1 to 1.4(2)
IOC(4) iron ore pellets and concentrate (Mt) 10.3 4.6 10.5 to 11.5 10.0 to 11.0
Boric oxide equivalent (Mt) 0.5 0.3 ~0.5 Unchanged
(1)In the upper half of the range.
(2)In the lower end of the range.
(3)Mined copper for 2023 guidance and actuals includes Oyu Tolgoi on a 100%
consolidated basis following Rio Tinto's acquisition of Turquoise Hill
Resources Ltd, which completed on 16 December 2022. Mined copper for 2022
includes Oyu Tolgoi on a 33.52% Rio Tinto share basis.
(4)Iron Ore Company of Canada continues to be reported at Rio Tinto share.
• Guidance for 2023 alumina production has been reduced to 7.4 to
7.7 million tonnes (previously 7.7 to 8.0 million tonnes), as Queensland
Alumina Limited (QAL) implements initiatives to improve plant stability and
production rates.
• Guidance for 2023 refined copper has been reduced to 160 to 190
thousand tonnes (previously 180 to 210 thousand tonnes) due to the extension
of the Kennecott smelter rebuild.
• Guidance for 2023 IOC production has been reduced to 10.0 to 11.0
million tonnes (previously 10.5 to 11.5 million tonnes) due to the impact of
wildfires in Northern Quebec, and remains subject to further disruption from
fire conditions.
• Iron ore shipments and bauxite production guidance remain subject
to weather impacts.
Operating costs
• Guidance for 2023 Pilbara iron ore unit cash costs is unchanged at
$21.0 to $22.5 per tonne, based on A$:US$ exchange rate of 0.70.
• Guidance for 2023 Copper C1 unit costs has been increased to 180
to 200 US cents/lb (from 160 to 180 US cents/lb) due to lower refined copper
production following extension of the Kennecott smelter rebuild.
Aluminium modelling
As reported in 2022, to assist with the modelling of aluminium operating costs
during a volatile price environment for raw materials, we provide the
following breakdown and sensitivities for the alumina and aluminium metal
segments (Primary Metal and Pacific Aluminium). This excludes the effect of
intra and inter segment eliminations on group profit.
( )
We have observed a reduction in index prices for many of the raw material
prices for our alumina and aluminium metal segments during the first half of
2023, when compared to the second half of 2022. Despite this, there has been
limited impact to our operating costs in the current half given the lag effect
associated with the utilisation of higher cost inventory, with the benefit to
costs expected in the second half of 2023.
Alumina refining
Production cash cost (%) FY 22 H1 23
Bauxite 31 31
Conversion 32 32
Caustic 23 24
Energy 14 13
Total 100 100
Input costs (nominal) H1 22 H2 22 H1 23 FY 23
Index price Index price Index price Annual cost sensitivity impact on underlying EBITDA
Caustic soda(1) ($/t) 675 595 432 $10m per $10/t
Natural gas(2) ($/mmbtu) 6.02 7.01 2.61 $4m per $0.10/GJ
Brent oil ($/bbl) 105.9 93.8 79.2 $2m per $10/bbl
(1)North East Asia FOB | (2)Henry Hub
Aluminum smelting
Production cash cost (%) FY 22 H1 23
Alumina 41 37
Power 19 18
Conversion 17 20
Carbon 21 23
Materials 2 2
Total 100 100
Input costs (nominal) H1 22 H2 22 H1 23 FY 23
Index price Index price Index price Annual cost sensitivity impact on underlying EBITDA
Alumina(1) ($/t) 395 328 349 $64m per $10/t
Petroleum coke(2) ($/t) 695 719 636 $11m per $10/t
Coal tar pitch(3) ($/t) 1,103 1,476 1,399 $2m per $10/t
(1)LME Australia | (2)US Gulf FOB | (3)North America FOB
Investments, growth and development projects
• Exploration and evaluation expense in the first half of 2023 was
$710 million, $343 million (94%) higher than the first half of 2022, with
continued ramp-up of early works at Simandou (included on a 100% basis(1)) and
in Argentina.
Pilbara mine projects
• The ramp-up of Gudai-Darri continued to plan with the mine
reaching its nameplate capacity on a sustained basis during the second
quarter.
• Construction of our Western Range mine continued in line with the
schedule during the quarter with site facilities completed and contractors
mobilised, while we progressed bulk earthworks for the fixed plant and
pre-strip earthworks for the mine.
• We continue to progress our next tranche of Pilbara mine projects
after Western Range, progressing studies for Hope Downs 1 Sustaining (Hope
Downs 2 and Bedded Hilltop), Brockman 4 sustaining (Brockman Syncline 1),
Greater Nammuldi Sustaining and West Angelas Sustaining. We continue to work
closely with local communities, Traditional Owners and governments to progress
approvals required for the new mining projects.
Oyu Tolgoi underground project
• In early July, we hosted a site tour of the Oyu Tolgoi operations
for investors and analysts. Presentation materials for this visit are
available on our website
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/invest/presentations/2023/oyu-tolgoi-site-visit)
.
• We continue to see strong performance from the underground mine,
with a total of 54 drawbells opened from Panel 0, including 18 drawbells
during the quarter. To date we are yet to lose a drawbell or draw point from
the underground mine.
• Shaft sinking rates improved during the quarter and at the end of
June, shafts 3 and 4 reached 627 metres and 740 metres below ground level,
respectively. Final depths required for shafts 3 and 4 are 1,148 and 1,149
metres below ground level, respectively. As reported in our presentation
materials for the Oyu Tolgoi site tour, we now expect both shafts to be
commissioned in the second half of 2024 (previously first half of 2024) with
shaft sinking rates now meeting those required for completion.
• Construction of conveyor to surface works continued to plan and
are now approaching 60% completion as at the end of the quarter. Construction
works for the concentrator conversion also progressed during the period, with
the main contractor mobilised and the commencement of major site works in May.
• Technical studies for mine design and schedule optimisation for
Panels 1 and 2 were completed during the second quarter(2). The operation is
expected to ramp up to deliver average mined copper production of ~500ktpa
(100% basis) between 2028 and 2036(3).
• During the quarter, Rio Tinto, Oyu Tolgoi and the Government of
Mongolia continued to work together towards the implementation of Mongolian
Parliamentary Resolution 103.
Other key projects and exploration and evaluation
• At Complexe Jonquière in Canada, we announced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-to-expand-its-ap60-low-carbon-aluminium-smelter-in-quebec)
an investment of $1.1 billion to expand our AP60 aluminium smelter equipped
with low-carbon technology. The total investment includes up to $113 million
of financial support from the Quebec government. This expansion will coincide
with the gradual closure of potrooms at the Arvida smelter on the same site.
The investment will add 96 new AP60 pots, increasing capacity by approximately
160,000 metric tonnes of primary aluminium per year. As a result, there will
be a total of 134 AP60 pots and a capacity of approximately 220,000 tonnes per
annum. This new capacity, in addition to 30,000 tonnes of new recycling
capacity at Arvida expected to open in the first quarter of 2025, will offset
the 170,000 tonnes of capacity lost through the gradual closure of potrooms at
the Arvida smelter from 2024.
• At our Alma smelter in Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec, we commenced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-begins-construction-of-its-new-billet-casting-center-in-alma-)
construction to increase our capacity to cast low-carbon, high-value aluminium
billets by 202,000 metric tonnes. The existing casting centre will be expanded
to include new state-of-the-art equipment such as furnaces, a casting pit,
coolers, handling, inspection, sawing and packaging systems. Commissioning is
scheduled for the first half of 2025. The $188 million investment will allow
more of Rio Tinto's aluminium production to be used to make billets from
renewable hydroelectric power.
• At Kennecott, we announced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-invests-to-strengthen-copper-supply-in-us)
$498 million of funding to deliver underground development and infrastructure
for an area known as the North Rim Skarn(4) (NRS). Production from the NRS
will commence in 2024 and is expected to ramp up over two years, to deliver
around 250 thousand tonnes of additional mined copper over the next 10
years(5) alongside open cut operations.
• At the Resolution Copper project in Arizona, the United States
Forest Service (USFS) continued work to progress the Final Environmental
Impact Statement (FEIS) and complete actions necessary for the land exchange.
We continued to advance partnership discussions with several
federally-recognised Native American Tribes who are part of the formal
consultation process. We are also monitoring the Apache Stronghold versus USFS
case held in the US Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. While there is significant
local support for the project, we respect the views of groups who oppose it
and will continue our efforts to address and mitigate these concerns. Costs
attributable to the Resolution project in the first half of 2023 were $68
million(6).
• At the Winu copper-gold project in Western Australia, we continued
to strengthen our relationships and advanced agreement making over the quarter
with host Traditional Owners, the Martu and Nyangumarta groups. Drilling,
fieldwork and study activities continued over the period strengthening the
development pathway ahead of applications for regulatory and other required
approvals. Costs attributable to the Winu project in the first half of 2023
were $32 million(6).
• At the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea, negotiations continued
to progress to enable the co-development of rail and port infrastructure by
Simfer, Winning Consortium Simandou and the Guinean State. The legal framework
for the construction and operations phases will establish access rights,
fiscal regime and schedule, as well as joint venture arrangements. We also
continued to progress early works, including establishing accommodation camps
to support continued mobilisation on both our mine and rail scope, earthworks
and geotechnical drilling. Costs attributable to the Simandou project in the
first half of 2023 were $318 million (100% basis)(6). Management
responsibility for Simandou transferred from the Copper product group to the
Chief Technical Officer during the period, with the exploration and evaluation
expense now shown separately in Other operations.
• Nuton(TM), our proprietary copper heap leaching technology, made
further progress during the quarter, with associated results reported by
Arizona Sonoran Copper Company on 5 June
(https://arizonasonoran.com/news-releases/arizona-sonoran-reports-positive-nutontm-technologies-extraction-rates-on-cactus-primary-sulphides/)
, McEwen Mining Inc. on 20 June
(https://www.mcewenmining.com/investor-relations/press-releases/press-release-details/2023/McEwen-Copper-announces-results-of-an-updated-Preliminary-Economic-Assessment-PEA-on-a-copper-leaching-phase-of-development-at-the-Los-Azules-project-in-San-Juan-Argentina/default.aspx)
(https://www.mcewenmining.com/investor-relations/press-releases/press-release-details/2023/McEwen-Copper-announces-results-of-an-updated-Preliminary-Economic-Assessment-PEA-on-a-copper-leaching-phase-of-development-at-the-Los-Azules-project-in-San-Juan-Argentina/default.aspx)
and Regulus Resources Inc. on 6 July
(https://regulusresources.com/news/2023/regulus-reports-positive-nuton-technologies-extraction-rates-on-antakori-mineralization-from-phase-one-program/)
.
• We continue to believe that the Jadar lithium-borate project in
Serbia has the potential to be a world-class asset, that will support the
development of other future industries in Serbia, acting as a catalyst for
tens of thousands of jobs for current and future generations, and sustainably
producing materials critical to the energy transition. We are focused on
consultation with all stakeholders to explore options related to the project's
future.
• At the Rincon lithium project in Argentina, development of the
three thousand tonne per annum lithium carbonate starter plant is ongoing.
Construction activities progressed on the camp and airstrip for the project,
while enabling works for the process plant continued. Our $140 million
estimate and schedule to develop the starter plant remains under review in
response to cost escalation. Studies for the full scale operation are ongoing,
and the exploration campaign progressed to further understand Rincon's basin,
brine and water reservoirs. We continue to engage with communities, the
province of Salta and the Government of Argentina to ensure an open and
transparent dialogue with stakeholders about the works underway.
• Costs attributable to Battery Materials in the first half of 2023
were $112 million(6).
(1)Costs relating to the Simfer joint venture where the Government of Guinea
holds 15% and Simfer Jersey holds 85%. Simfer Jersey is owned by Rio Tinto
(53%) and Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (CIOH) (47%).
(2)Mine design and plans will be reviewed by regulatory bodies as part of the
OTFS23 process.
(3)The 500kpta copper target (stated as recoverable metal) for the Oyu Tolgoi
underground and open pit mines for the years 2028 to 2036 is underpinned 13%
by Proved Ore Reserves and 87% by Probable Ore Reserves.This production target
has been scheduled from mine designs based on the Oyu Tolgoi Feasibility Study
2020 (OTFS20), which are not materially different to current mine designs, by
Competent Persons in accordance with the requirements of the Australasian Code
for Reporting of Exploration Results, Minerals Resources and Ore Reserves,
2012 Edition (the JORC code).
(4)The NRS Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, together with the Lower
Commercial Skarn (LCS) Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves, form the
Underground Skarns Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves.
(5)This production target for 2023 to 2033 is underpinned 25% by Probable Ore
Reserves, 9% by Indicated Resources, and 66% by Inferred Resources. Mined
copper is reported as total recoverable metal. These estimates of Mineral
Resources and Ore Reserves were reported in a release dated 20 June 2023
titled "Rio Tinto Kennecott Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves" (Table 1
Release) which is available on Rio Tinto's website at resources & reserves
(riotinto.com), and have been prepared by Competent Persons in accordance with
the requirements of the JORC code and ASX Listing Rules.
(6)Costs are included in the total H1 2023 exploration and evaluation expense.
Excludes amounts capitalised in the period.
Sustainability highlights
We are creating an open and transparent environment which will make positive
and lasting change and strengthen our workplace culture for the long term, as
we continue to implement the 26 recommendations of the Everyday Respect
report. We continue to promote respectful transparency by expanding the
adoption of purple banner communications to other parts of the business to
highlight disrespectful, discriminatory and hurtful behaviours occurring in
our organisation, in the same way we highlight safety concerns. Village
councils are being implemented across sites to provide a safe and constructive
way for employees and contractors to raise concerns and give feedback. In
addition, over 950 people responded to our Pilbara Iron Ore's contractor
survey, which was designed to better understand their experiences.
On 3 April, we pu
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-releases-details-of-10,-d-,8-billion-of-taxes-and-royalties-paid-in-2022)
b
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-releases-details-of-10,-d-,8-billion-of-taxes-and-royalties-paid-in-2022)
lished
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-releases-details-of-10,-d-,8-billion-of-taxes-and-royalties-paid-in-2022)
our 2022 Taxes and Royalties Paid Report, detailing $10.8 billion of global
taxes and royalties paid during the year. This compares to $13.3 billion in
2021, during very strong commodity prices, and is the third-highest annual
global taxes and royalties paid by Rio Tinto since it published its first
annual Taxes Paid report, for 2010. In the past ten years, Rio Tinto has paid
$74.9 billion in taxes and royalties globally, of which more than 78% was paid
in Australia.
On 4 April, we announced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-to-support-eras-entitlement-offer-to-raise-funds-for-ranger-rehabilitation)
our support for Energy Resources of Australia Ltd's (ERA) plans for an Interim
Entitlement Offer (IEO), which sought to raise up to A$369 million to address
funding requirements for the Ranger Rehabilitation Project in Australia's
Northern Territory to the end of the second quarter of 2024. Rio Tinto, which
owns 86.3% of ERA's shares, subscribed for its full entitlements under the
terms of the IEO, at a cost of A$319 million. Rio Tinto notes that ERA has, in
the IEO offer material, recognised the Mirarr People's opposition to further
uranium mining on their land. This was a relevant factor in Rio Tinto's recent
decision to no longer report the Jabiluka deposit as a Mineral Resource.
On 2 May, together with BHP, we inv
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/bhp-and-rio-tinto-invite-collaboration-on-new-tailings-technologies)
ited
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/bhp-and-rio-tinto-invite-collaboration-on-new-tailings-technologies)
expressions of interest from technology providers, equipment manufacturers,
reagent suppliers, startups and research groups across the globe with
innovative ideas and technologies to help improve tailings dewatering and
management performance. Together we aim to jointly identify a portfolio of
tailings management partners with whom they can work to accelerate the
development of technologies that could increase water recovery and reduce
potential safety risks and environmental footprints associated with tailings
storage facilities.
In May, we published our 2022 Statement on Modern Slavery
(https://nam12.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fs2.bl-1.com%2Fh%2FdtnX8Wyt%3Furl%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Fwww.riotinto.com%2Fen%2Finvest%2Freports%2Fmodern-slavery&data=05%7C01%7CTom.Gallop2%40riotinto.com%7C25d1da6c51964e1bebe708db8689a0b9%7C4341df80fbe641bf89b0e6e2379c9c23%7C0%7C0%7C638251697890074650%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000%7C%7C%7C&sdata=I7A04cbxTCbnC9cVkBN2wSsOsRam4obT3d2kHtTF22A%3D&reserved=0)
- our seventh statement against UK modern slavery reporting legislation, and
our third under Australian legislation. We know that we face a risk of
involvement in modern slavery through our value chain, including through our
suppliers. And although we are not aware of any recorded modern slavery
incidents or complaints in our business during 2022, we are committed to
looking for ways to improve.
Communities & Social Performance (CSP)
On 2 June, we announced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-to-invest-in-pilbara-desalination-plant)
plans to invest $395 million in a seawater desalination plant in the Pilbara,
Western Australia, to support future water supply for the company's coastal
operations and communities in the region. The proposed Dampier Seawater
Desalination Plant, which remains subject to Commonwealth and State Government
approvals, will be located within Rio Tinto's existing iron ore port
operations at Parker Point. It will have an initial nominal capacity of four
gigalitres annually with the potential for this to increase to eight
gigalitres in the future. The project includes construction of a new supply
pipeline to connect to the existing water network. Subject to relevant
approvals, construction is expected to commence in 2024 with the facility
expected to be operational and producing water in 2026.
On 13 June, we announced
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-to-bring-rail-car-manufacturing-to-the-pilbara)
a partnership with Gemco Rail to bring local iron ore rail car manufacturing
and bearing maintenance to the Pilbara region in an industry-first. This
partnership will enable Gemco Rail to expand its existing operations to
establish the first ever rail ore car manufacturing and maintenance facility
in the Pilbara, creating new jobs, increasing spend with local and Indigenous
businesses and supporting local economic growth. Rio Tinto expects to invest
approximately A$150 million to purchase 100 locally built ore rail cars over
six years as well as continued investment in bearing refurbishment over ten
years, to support the company's Pilbara operations.
Key highlights from the quarter are outlined above, with further information
available on our website (https://www.riotinto.com/sustainability/communities)
.
Climate change, product stewardship and our value chain
In the second quarter we continued to focus on innovative solutions that have
the potential to be scalable across Rio Tinto's global value chains.
• On 3 April, Rio Tinto Iron and Titanium (RTIT) started
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-starts-bluesmelting-demonstration-plant-to-validate-decarbonisation-technology)
its BlueSmelting(TM) demonstration plant at its metallurgical complex in
Sorel-Tracy as part of the process to validate the ground-breaking
BlueSmelting(TM) technology, which aims to decarbonise RTIT's Quebec
Operations. We achieved a further milestone subsequent to the end of the
quarter in July, delivering first production from the demonstration plant. The
BlueSmelting(TM) project involves an ilmenite reduction technology that could
generate 95% less greenhouse gas emissions than the current reduction process,
enabling the production of titanium dioxide, steel and metal powders with a
significantly lower carbon footprint. This innovative technology was developed
by scientists at Rio Tinto's Critical Minerals and Technology Centre in
Sorel-Tracy.
• On 2 June, our Boron, California operation successfully completed
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/rio-tinto-u,-d-,s,-d-,-borax-becomes-first-open-pit-mine-to-transition-to-renewable-diesel)
the full transition of its heavy machinery from fossil diesel to renewable
diesel, making it the first open pit mine in the world to achieve this
milestone. The change to renewable diesel brings an anticipated CO(2)
equivalent reduction of up to 45,000 tonnes per year, comparable to
eliminating the annual emissions of approximately 9,600 cars.
• On 12 June, we signed
(https://www.riotinto.com/en/news/releases/2023/china-baowu-and-rio-tinto-extend-climate-partnership-to-decarbonise-the-steel-value-chain)
a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Baowu, the world's biggest
steelmaker, to explore a range of industry-leading new projects in China and
Australia to help decarbonise the steel value chain. Under the MoU, China
Baowu and Rio Tinto plan to jointly advance specific decarbonisation projects,
demonstrating their commitment to play a leading role in the industry's
low-carbon transformation. The projects include:
◦ Research, build and demonstrate a pilot-scale electric melter at
one of Baowu's steel mills in China. This will enable low-carbon steel making
utilising Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) that has been produced from low and medium
grade ores.
◦ Optimise pelletisation technology for Australian ores as a
feedstock for low-carbon shaft furnace-based direct reduction.
◦ Expand the development of China Baowu's HyCROF technology which
can largely mitigate CO(2) emissions from the blast furnace process.
◦ Jointly study opportunities for producing low-carbon iron in
Western Australia.
Activity across our global decarbonisation portfolio continues to accelerate,
however physical delivery of renewables, diesel replacement and process heat
abatement has not progressed as fast as we would like. Delays have arisen due
to a range of factors including engineering and construction timelines,
securing approvals and the need to carefully integrate our ambitions with the
needs of our local communities and stakeholder groups. This particularly
challenges our near term objective in 2025 where we have limited time to make
adjustments to physical projects.
Our markets
Although commodity prices remain at elevated levels, they declined during the
second quarter as global demand slowed. China's economic recovery has fallen
short of initial market expectations, as the property market downturn
continues to weigh on the economy and consumers remain cautious despite
monetary policy easing. Manufacturing data in advanced economies showed a
further slowdown and recessionary risks remain.
• China's reopening recovery started strongly but slowed in the
second quarter. Consumption is still improving, while weakness in the export
and property sectors is providing a drag to growth. Factory activity has
slowed down, as manufacturing PMI contracted. The Chinese government has
stepped up monetary easing measures.
• The US economy is still growing and the labour market remains
resilient, but a recession is still likely later this year. Past tightening of
monetary policy and tighter lending standards are expected to constrain
consumer spending, hiring and business investment. Inflation remains a
challenge for the Federal Reserve, given pressure in the services sector.
• The eurozone economy continues to be challenged by weak
manufacturing activity and high core inflation, as manufacturing output and
new orders fell, while services showed an expansion. Core inflation has been
pushed up by services, whilst manufactured goods inflation has tapered down.
• Iron ore prices declined by 12% over the quarter as China's steel
demand recovery encountered persistent headwinds, and steel prices and mill
profitability remained compressed. As a result, Chinese steel exports trended
up sharply towards 100 million tonne annualised, run-rates last observed in
2016. China's seaborne iron ore imports were also supported by the delayed
rebound in scrap availability and challenges to domestic iron ore production.
Imports over the quarter declined marginally below their 1.25 billion tonne
per annum rate in the first quarter, but trended close to record seasonal
levels. Seaborne iron ore supply performed strongly over the quarter, with
June shipments from Australia and Brazil estimated at or close to all-time
highs.
• The LME cash aluminium price declined by 10% over the quarter,
with the average price of $2,258/t 6% lower than the first quarter of 2023.
The price has followed industry operating costs lower, with average smelter
costs falling 12% quarter on quarter. Smelter restarts are currently under way
in Yunnan, adding supply to a tight global market. Inventories in China are at
seven-year lows, and China has continued to import primary aluminium in the
first half of the year.
• The copper LME price fell 8% over the quarter, while the average
price was down 5% quarter on quarter to $3.84/lb, as negative macroeconomic
headlines related to the slowdown in China's recovery and US debt ceiling
gridlock dampened sentiment, moving speculative positions to a net short for
the first time since August 2022. The US dollar strengthened over the period
as inflationary pressures prevailed. Despite these headwinds, prices were
supported by increasing operating costs, exchange inventory tightness and
market expectations on China's stimulus.
• Lithium carbonate spot prices rebounded during the second quarter,
driven by higher electric vehicle (EV) sales growth and restocking activities
from end-users. Short-term uncertainty remains as the global economy slows and
higher interest rates dampen consumer spending, although the automotive market
sentiment improved in China on the back of tax incentives for EV's and a
potential end to the aggressive price war between Chinese car manufacturers.
Longer term, market fundamentals for lithium remain strong, as EV adoption
continues to rise on supportive government policies and supply shortfalls
requiring further investment.
Average realised prices achieved for our major commodities
Units H1 2023 Q2 2023 Q1 2023 H1 2022 2022
Pilbara iron ore FOB, $/wmt 98.6 93.8 103.3 110.9 97.6
Pilbara iron ore FOB, $/dmt 107.2 101.9 112.3 120.5 106.1
Aluminium* Metal $/t 2,866 2,786 2,954 3,808 3,330
Copper** US c/lb 396 385 407 447 403
IOC pellets FOB $/wmt 154.7 151.2 158.9 199.0 190.3
*LME plus all-in premiums (product and market).
**Average realised price for all units sold. Realised price does not include
the impact of the provisional pricing adjustments, which negatively impacted
revenues in the first half by $4 million (first half 2022 negative impact of
$30 million).
Iron Ore
Rio Tinto share of production (Million tonnes) Q2 vs Q2 vs Q1 H1 vs H1
2022
2023
2022
2023 2023
Pilbara Blend and SP10 Lump(1) 21.0 +9 % +7 % 40.7 +12 %
Pilbara Blend and SP10 Fines(1) 31.8 +5 % +3 % 62.6 +12 %
Robe Valley Lump 1.5 +26 % +31 % 2.6 +18 %
Robe Valley Fines 2.4 +29 % +21 % 4.4 +22 %
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY) 11.9 -12 % -13 % 25.6 -9 %
Total Pilbara production 68.6 +4 % +2 % 135.8 +8 %
Total Pilbara production (100% basis) 81.3 +3 % +2 % 160.5 +7 %
Rio Tinto share of shipments (Million tonnes) Q2 vs Q2 vs Q1 H1 vs H1
2022
2023
2022
2023 2023
Pilbara Blend Lump 14.7 +16 % -6 % 30.4 +29 %
Pilbara Blend Fines 27.5 +9 % -4 % 56.0 +20 %
Robe Valley Lump 1.2 +19 % +10 % 2.2 +34 %
Robe Valley Fines 2.5 +8 % +10 % 4.8 +18 %
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY) 12.6 -12 % -8 % 26.2 -9 %
SP10 Lump(1) 1.7 -63 % -2 % 3.3 -60 %
SP10 Fines(1) 6.6 -2 % -3 % 13.4 -3 %
Total Pilbara shipments(2) 66.6 0 % -4 % 136.4 +8 %
Total Pilbara shipments (100% basis)(2) 79.1 -1 % -4 % 161.7 +7 %
Total Pilbara Shipments (consolidated basis)(2, 3) 68.3 0 % -4 % 139.8 +8 %
(1)SP10 includes other lower grade products.
(2)Shipments includes material shipped from the Pilbara to our portside
trading facility in China which may not be sold onwards by the group in the
same period.
(3)While Rio Tinto has a 53% net beneficial interest in Robe River Iron
Associates, it recognises 65% of the assets, liabilities, sales revenues and
expenses in its accounts (as 30% is held through a 60% owned subsidiary and
35% is held through a 100% owned subsidiary). The consolidated basis sales
reported here include Robe River Iron Associates on a 65% basis to enable
comparison with revenue reported in the financial statements.
Pilbara operations
We produced 81.3 million tonnes (Rio Tinto share 68.6 million tonnes) in the
second quarter, 3% higher than the corresponding period of 2022. The ramp-up
of Gudai-Darri continued to plan, with the mine reaching nameplate capacity on
a sustained basis during the period. Challenges at the Yandicoogina mine
associated with materials handling and plant reliability, highlighted in the
first quarter, continued into the period.
Shipments of 79.1 million tonnes (Rio Tinto share 66.6 million tonnes) were 1%
lower than the second quarter of 2022, and 4% lower than the prior quarter.
This was primarily due to planned major maintenance at the Dampier Port and a
train derailment on 17 June. The rail line was reopened on 21 June.
With ongoing operational improvements across the Pilbara system, and uplift
from implementation of the Safe Production System, full year shipments are
expected to be in the upper half of the original 320 to 335 million tonne
range. With higher production anticipated in the second half, SP10 is expected
to be a larger proportion of shipments (first half 2023 = 10%(1)).
Approximately 10% of sales in the second quarter were priced by reference to
the prior quarter's average index lagged by one month. The remainder was sold
either on current quarter average, current month average, average of two
months, forward month or on the spot market. Approximately 26% of sales in the
second quarter were made on a free on board (FOB) basis, with the remainder
sold including freight.
Achieved average pricing in the first half of 2023 was $98.6 per wet metric
tonne ($110.9 in the first half of 2022) on an FOB basis (equivalent to $107.2
per dry metric tonne, with a 8% moisture assumption). This compares to the
average first half price for the monthly average Platts index for 62% iron
fines converted to an FOB basis of $109.8 per dry metric tonne.
China Portside Trading
We continue to see strong demand for Rio Tinto's portside product in China.
Our iron ore portside sales in China were 11.9 million tonnes in the first
half of 2023 (14.2 million tonnes in the first half of 2022). At 30 June,
inventory levels were 5.7 million tonnes, including 2.6 million tonnes of
Pilbara product. In the first half of 2023 approximately 90% of our portside
sales were either screened or blended in Chinese ports.
(1)Based on total Pilbara shipments on a 100% basis.
Aluminium
Rio Tinto share of production ('000 tonnes) Q2 vs Q2 vs Q1 H1 vs H1
2022
2023
2022
2023 2023
Bauxite 13,492 -5 % +12 % 25,581 -8 %
Bauxite third party shipments 9,159 -5 % +16 % 17,039 -14 %
Alumina 1,861 0 % 0 % 3,720 -1 %
Aluminium 814 +11 % +4 % 1,598 +9 %
Bauxite
Bauxite production of 13.5 million tonnes was 5% lower than the second quarter
of 2022 as our Weipa operations were impacted by the higher-than-average first
quarter rainfall, which continued to reduce pit access and led to longer haul
distances. Production was further affected by equipment downtime at both Weipa
and Gove. As a result, our bauxite full year production is expected to be at
the lower end of our 54 to 57 million tonne range, as we implement plans to
recover lost production at both operations through the remainder of the year.
We shipped 9.2 million tonnes of bauxite to third parties in the second
quarter, 5% lower than the same period of 2022.
Alumina
Alumina production of 1.9 million tonnes was in line with the second quarter
of 2022 as improved operational stability at our Yarwun and Vaudreuil
refineries was offset by unplanned plant downtime at Queensland Alumina
Limited (QAL). As a result, our full year alumina production has been reduced
to 7.4 to 7.7 million tonnes (previously 7.7 to 8.0 million tonnes), as QAL
implements initiatives to improve plant stability and production rates.
As the result of QAL activation of a step-in process following sanction
measures by the Australian Government, Rio Tinto has taken on 100% of capacity
for as long as the step-in continues. This results in use of Rusal's 20% share
of capacity by Rio Tinto under the tolling arrangement with QAL. This
additional output is excluded from the production tables in this report as QAL
remains 80% owned by Rio Tinto and 20% owned by Rusal.
Aluminium
Aluminium production of 0.8 million tonnes was 11% higher than the second
quarter of 2022 as we benefited from the continued ramp-up of the Kitimat
smelter. Recovery at the Boyne and Kitimat smelters is progressing to plan
with full ramp-up expected to be completed later in the year. All our other
smelters continued to demonstrate stable performance during the quarter.
Average realised aluminium prices including premiums for value-added products
(VAP) decreased 25% to $2,866 per tonne in the first half of 2023 (first half
2022: $3,808 per tonne). The LME price decreased by 24% to $2,329 per tonne
(first half 2022: $3,082 per tonne), whilst the mid-west premium duty paid
declined 27% to $583 per tonne in the first half of 2023 (first half 2022:
$801 per tonne), which is 56% of our total volumes (58% in the first half of
2022). Our VAP sales decreased to 47% of primary metal sold in the first half
of 2023 (first half 2022: 52%). Product premiums for VAP sales decreased,
averaging $377 per tonne of VAP sold (first half 2022: $422 per tonne).
Copper
Rio Tinto share of production ('000 tonnes) Q2 vs Q2 vs Q1 H1 vs H1
2022
2023
2022
2023 2023
Mined copper
Kennecott 24.8 -27 % -18 % 55.1 -32 %
Escondida 77.4 -6 % +7 % 149.7 -1 %
Oyu Tolgoi (66% basis)(1) 28.3 +176 % +1 % 56.4 +176 %
Total mined copper production 130.5 +3 % 0 % 261.2 +4 %
Total mined copper production (consolidated basis(2)) 145.0 -1 % 0 % 290.2 -1 %
Refined copper
Kennecott 14.4 -56 % -67 % 58.1 -20 %
Escondida 21.7 +30 % +43 % 37.0 +19 %
(1)Oyu Tolgoi production for 2022 reported on a 33.52% equity share basis.
Following the acquisition of Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd on 16 December 2022,
Oyu Tolgoi production for 2023 reported on a 66% equity share basis.
(2)Includes Oyu Tolgoi on a 100% consolidated basis, Kennecott and Escondida
on an equity share basis.
Kennecott
Mined copper production was 27% lower than the second quarter of 2022 as the
concentrator continued to recover from the failure of a conveyor in March
2023. Mitigating activities have progressed in line with recovery plans, with
the conveyor now performing at rates to enable the concentrator to return to
full capacity in the third quarter of 2023. The majority of the winter
snowpack melted during the quarter, with the successful implementation of a
range of measures to manage the associated geotechnical risk resulting in
minimal impact to operations.
Refined copper production was 56% lower than the second quarter of 2022 as we
commenced the largest rebuild of the smelter and refinery in Kennecott's
history in May 2023. The ~$300 million rebuild has incorporated approximately
300 engineering and maintenance projects and we are on track to complete the
full scope of work. While inspecting the integrity of the flash converting
furnace, we identified additional work necessitating a full rebuild, rather
than the planned partial rebuild. The full rebuild is expected to further
improve asset stability and process safety management, however as a result the
consolidated scope of work is now expected to be completed in September 2023
(previously August 2023).
As a consequence of this extension, our refined copper production guidance has
been reduced to 160 to 190 thousand tonnes (previously 180 to 210 thousand
tonnes) and our copper C1 unit cost guidance has been increased to 180 to 200
US cents/lb (from 160 to 180 US cents/lb).
Escondida
Mined copper production was 6% lower than the second quarter of 2022 due to
10% lower concentrator throughput rates following unplanned maintenance, and
lower crusher and conveyor availability. In addition, there was also a 16%
decrease in copper recoverable from ore stacked for leaching due to lower
grades and volume of stacked material.
Refined production increased by 30% compared to the second quarter of 2022 due
to improved ore qualities in the oxide leach and better sulphide leach
performance on the run of mine pad.
On 17 May 2023, the Chamber of Deputies of Chile approved a new mining royalty
which will impact Escondida through a 1% ad-valorem component and an increased
operating margin component, all limited by a maximum overall tax rate of
46.5%. The new mining royalty will be effective as of 1 January 2024.
Oyu Tolgoi
Mined copper production on a 100% basis increased 40% from the second quarter
of 2022 as the ramp-up in underground production continued to plan, delivering
higher average copper head grades (0.52% vs. 0.40%). During the quarter we
delivered 0.9 million tonnes of ore milled from the underground mine at an
average copper head grade of 1.56%, and 8.8 million tonnes from the open pit
with an average grade of 0.41%.
Following our acquisition of Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd on 16 December 2022,
our equity share of production increased from 33.52% to 66%, effective in
reporting from 1 January 2023. We continue to fully consolidate Oyu Tolgoi in
our financials.
During the quarter we signed an extension with the Inner Mongolian Power
Company, securing our power supply for the operation until 2030.
Nuton(TM)
Nuton(TM), our proprietary copper heap leaching technology, made further
progress during the quarter, with associated results reported by Arizona
Sonoran Copper Company on 5
(https://arizonasonoran.com/news-releases/arizona-sonoran-reports-positive-nutontm-technologies-extraction-rates-on-cactus-primary-sulphides/)
June
(https://arizonasonoran.com/news-releases/arizona-sonoran-reports-positive-nutontm-technologies-extraction-rates-on-cactus-primary-sulphides/)
, McEwen Mining Inc. on
20 June
(https://www.mcewenmining.com/investor-relations/press-releases/press-release-details/2023/McEwen-Copper-announces-results-of-an-updated-Preliminary-Economic-Assessment-PEA-on-a-copper-leaching-phase-of-development-at-the-Los-Azules-project-in-San-Juan-Argentina/default.aspx)
and Regulus Resources Inc. on 6 July
(https://regulusresources.com/news/2023/regulus-reports-positive-nuton-technologies-extraction-rates-on-antakori-mineralization-from-phase-one-program/)
.
Minerals
Rio Tinto share of production (million tonnes) Q2 vs Q2 vs Q1 H1 vs H1
2022
2023
2022
2023 2023
Iron ore pellets and concentrate
IOC 2.1 -21 % -18 % 4.6 -8 %
Rio Tinto share of production ('000 tonnes) Q2 vs Q2 vs Q1 H1 vs H1
2022
2023
2022
2023 2023
Minerals
Borates - B(2)O(3) content 133 -3 % +8 % 257 -1 %
Titanium dioxide slag 303 +4 % +6 % 589 +4 %
Rio Tinto share of production ('000 carats) Q2 vs Q2 vs Q1 H1 vs H1
2022
2023
2022
2023 2023
Diavik 970 -16 % +2 % 1,924 -10 %
Iron Ore Company of Canada (IOC)
Iron ore production was 21% lower than the second quarter of 2022, as we lost
~3.5 weeks of production in June, primarily due to wildfires in Northern
Quebec, together with a slightly extended shutdown. Operations have resumed,
however our full year production guidance has been reduced to 10.0 to 11.0
million tonnes (previously 10.5 to 11.5 million tonnes), and remains subject
to further disruption from fire conditions.
Shipments were 1% higher than the second quarter of 2022, as we drew down
inventory. Although logistics have resumed following the wildfires, loading
restrictions at the rail and port remain a risk as we repair areas of the rail
line damaged by fire.
Borates
Borates production in the second quarter was 3% lower than the corresponding
period of 2022 due to the deferral of a bulk vessel to the next quarter. We
continued to see an easing of supply chain constraints at the Port of Los
Angeles in the period.
Iron and Titanium
Titanium dioxide slag production was 4% higher than the second quarter of
2022, due to improved operational performance at our smelters.
Notwithstanding, our RTIT Quebec Operations experienced two incidents in
separate furnaces in June and July which we are currently investigating. Given
these investigations and weaker market conditions, our full year production is
expected to be at the lower end of our 1.1 to 1.4 million tonne range.
Diamonds
At Diavik, our share of carats was 16% lower than the second quarter of 2022
due to the completion of an underground pipe and area of the open pit during
the period.
Exploration and evaluation
Pre-tax and pre-divestment expenditure on exploration and evaluation charged
to the profit and loss account in the first half of 2023 was $710 million,
compared with $367 million in the first half of 2022. Approximately 45% of
this expenditure was incurred for Simandou, 18% by central exploration, 17% by
Minerals, 15% by Copper and 4% by Iron Ore. The increase in expenditure
reflects the continued ramp-up of early works at Simandou (included on a 100%
basis(1)) and Argentina.
Our annual budget for central greenfield exploration remains around $250
million, mainly focused on copper, with a growing battery minerals programme.
Exploration highlights
Rio Tinto has a strong portfolio of projects with activity in 18 countries
across eight commodities in early exploration and studies stages. The bulk of
the exploration expenditure in the second quarter focused on copper in
Australia, Colombia, Chile, Zambia, Peru, the US and Kazakhstan, and diamonds
in Angola.
Rio Tinto recently partnered in two lithium exploration projects in Quebec and
greenfield lithium exploration continues in Canada, Australia, US and Africa.
Exploration for nickel is ongoing in Canada, Finland, Brazil and Peru.
Mine-lease exploration continued at Rio Tinto managed businesses including
Bingham Canyon in the US, Pilbara Iron Ore in Australia and Diavik in Canada.
A summary of activity for the quarter is as follows:
Commodities Studies Stage Advanced projects Greenfield/ Brownfield programmes
Bauxite Melville Island, Australia
Cape York, Australia
Battery Materials Rincon Lithium, Argentina Nickel Greenfield: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Finland, Peru
Lithium borates: Jadar, Serbia Lithium Greenfield: Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Finland, US
Nickel: Tamarack, US (3rd party operated) Lithium borates Brownfield: US
Copper Copper/molybdenum: Resolution, US Copper: La Granja, Peru Pribrezhniy, Kazakhstan Copper Greenfield: Angola, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Colombia,
Finland, Kazakhstan, Namibia, Laos, Peru, Papua New Guinea, Serbia, US, Zambia
Copper/Gold: Winu, Australia Calibre-Magnum, Australia
Copper Brownfield: US
Diamonds Falcon, Canada(2) Diamonds Greenfield: Angola
Diamonds Brownfield: Diavik
Iron Ore Pilbara, Australia Pilbara, Australia Greenfield and Brownfield: Pilbara, Australia
Simandou, Guinea
Minerals Potash: KL262(3), Canada Potash Greenfield: Canada
Heavy mineral sands: Mutamba, Mozambique Heavy mineral sands Greenfield: Australia, South Africa
(1)Costs relating to the Simfer joint venture where the Government of Guinea
holds 15% and Simfer Jersey holds 85%. Simfer Jersey is owned by Rio Tinto
(53%) and Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (CIOH) (47%).
(2)The Falcon Project in Saskatchewan, Canada, is currently in care and
maintenance whilst Rio Tinto considers alternative commercial options,
including potential exit.
(3)Limited activity during the quarter.
Forward-looking statement
This announcement includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of
the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other
than statements of historical facts included in this announcement, including,
without limitation, those regarding Rio Tinto's financial position, business
strategy, plans and objectives of management for future operations (including
development plans and objectives relating to Rio Tinto's products, production
forecasts and reserve and resource positions and any statements related to the
ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic), are forward-looking statements. The
words "intend", "aim", "project", "anticipate", "estimate", "plan",
"believes", "expects", "may", "would", "should", "could", "will", "target",
"set to", "seek", "risk" or similar expressions, commonly identify such
forward-looking statements.
Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties
and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or
achievements of Rio Tinto, or industry results, to be materially different
from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by
such forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on
numerous assumptions regarding Rio Tinto's present and future business
strategies and the environment in which Rio Tinto will operate in the future.
Among the important factors that could cause Rio Tinto's actual results,
performance or achievements to differ materially from those in the
forward-looking statements are levels of actual production during any period,
levels of demand and market prices, the ability to produce and transport
products profitably, the impact of foreign currency exchange rates on market
prices and operating costs, operational problems, political uncertainty and
economic conditions in relevant areas of the world, the actions of
competitors, activities by governmental authorities such as changes in
taxation or regulation, the risks and uncertainties associated with the
ongoing impacts of COVID-19 or other pandemic and such other risk factors
identified in Rio Tinto's most recent Annual report and accounts in Australia
and the United Kingdom and the most recent Annual report on Form 20-F filed
with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") or Form
6-Ks furnished to, or filed with, the SEC. The above list is not exhaustive.
Forward-looking statements should, therefore, be construed in light of such
risk factors and undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking
statements, particularly in light of the current economic climate and the
significant volatility, uncertainty and disruption caused by the outbreak of
COVID-19. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this
announcement. Rio Tinto expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking
(except as required by applicable law, the UK Listing Rules, the Disclosure
Guidance and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority and the
Listing Rules of the Australian Securities Exchange) to release publicly any
updates or revisions to any forward-looking statement contained herein to
reflect any change in Rio Tinto's expectations with regard thereto or any
change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is
based.
Nothing in this announcement should be interpreted to mean that future
earnings per share of Rio Tinto plc or Rio Tinto Limited will necessarily
match or exceed its historical published earnings per share.
Contacts Please direct all enquiries to media.enquiries@riotinto.com
Media Relations, UK Media Relations, Australia
Matthew Klar Matt Chambers
M +44 7796 630 637 M +61 433 525 739
David Outhwaite Jesse Riseborough
M +44 7787 597 493 M +61 436 653 412
Media Relations, Americas
Simon Letendre
M +1 514 796 4973
Malika Cherry
M +1 418 592 7293
Investor Relations, UK Investor Relations, Australia
Menno Sanderse Tom Gallop
M +44 7825 195 178 M +61 439 353 948
David Ovington Amar Jambaa
M +44 7920 010 978 M +61 472 865 948
Danielle Smith
M: +44 7788 190 672
Rio Tinto plc Rio Tinto Limited
6 St James's Square Level 43, 120 Collins Street
London SW1Y 4AD Melbourne 3000
United Kingdom Australia
T +44 20 7781 2000 T +61 3 9283 3333
Registered in England Registered in Australia
No. 719885 ABN 96 004 458 404
This announcement is authorised for release to the market by Steve Allen, Rio
Tinto's Group Company Secretary.
riotinto.com
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Classification: 3.1 Additional regulated information required to be disclosed
under the laws of a Member State
Rio Tinto production summary
Rio Tinto share of production
Quarter Half Year % change
2022 2023 2023 2022 2023 Q2 23 Q2 23 H1 2023
Q2 Q1 Q2 H1 H1 vs vs vs
Q2 22 Q1 23 H1 2022
Principal commodities
Alumina ('000 t) 1,864 1,860 1,861 3,765 3,720 0 % 0 % -1 %
Aluminium ('000 t) 731 785 814 1,467 1,598 +11 % +4 % +9 %
Bauxite ('000 t) 14,131 12,089 13,492 27,757 25,581 -5 % +12 % -8 %
Borates ('000 t) 137 124 133 260 257 -3 % +8 % -1 %
Copper - mined ('000 t) 126.4 130.7 130.5 251.9 261.2 +3 % 0 % +4 %
Copper - refined ('000 t) 49.4 58.9 36.2 104.1 95.1 -27 % -39 % -9 %
Diamonds ('000 cts) 1,149 954 970 2,140 1,924 -16 % +2 % -10 %
Iron Ore ('000 t) 68,640 69,784 70,632 131,105 140,416 +3 % +1 % +7 %
Titanium dioxide slag ('000 t) 293 285 303 566 589 +4 % +6 % +4 %
Other Metals & Minerals
Gold - mined ('000 oz) 52.5 64.4 61.4 121.0 125.7 +17 % -5 % +4 %
Gold - refined ('000 oz) 20.9 22.0 19.2 53.1 41.2 -8 % -13 % -22 %
Molybdenum ('000 t) 0.4 0.1 0.3 1.5 0.4 -25 % +144 % -70 %
Salt ('000 t) 1,030 1,450 1,652 2,625 3,101 +60 % +14 % +18 %
Silver - mined ('000 oz) 846 935 775 1,858 1,710 -8 % -17 % -8 %
Silver - refined ('000 oz) 290 432 329 867 761 +13 % -24 % -12 %
Throughout this report, figures in italics indicate adjustments made since the
figure was previously quoted on the equivalent page or reported for the first
time. Production figures are sometimes more precise than the rounded numbers
shown, hence small differences may result between the total of the quarter
figures and the year to date figures.
Rio Tinto share of production
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
interest
2022
2022
2022
2023
2023
2022
2023
ALUMINA
Production ('000 tonnes)
Jonquière (Vaudreuil) 100 % 325 336 368 371 346 659 717
Jonquière (Vaudreuil) specialty Alumina plant 100 % 30 30 29 25 27 55 51
Queensland Alumina 80 % 697 662 678 632 677 1,401 1,309
São Luis (Alumar) 10 % 91 95 97 94 66 185 159
Yarwun 100 % 721 715 769 739 745 1,465 1,483
Rio Tinto total alumina production 1,864 1,838 1,941 1,860 1,861 3,765 3,720
ALUMINIUM
Production ('000 tonnes)
Australia - Bell Bay 100 % 44 46 48 45 46 91 92
Australia - Boyne Island 59 % 61 65 68 70 73 134 143
Australia - Tomago 52 % 75 76 76 75 75 150 150
Canada - six wholly owned 100 % 323 341 360 367 389 641 756
Canada - Alouette (Sept-Îles) 40 % 63 64 63 62 63 124 126
Canada - Bécancour 25 % 29 29 29 29 29 57 58
Iceland - ISAL (Reykjavik) 100 % 50 51 52 51 52 100 103
New Zealand - Tiwai Point 79 % 66 67 68 66 66 132 132
Oman - Sohar 20 % 20 20 20 20 20 39 39
Rio Tinto total aluminium production 731 759 783 785 814 1,467 1,598
BAUXITE
Production ('000 tonnes) (a)
Gove 100 % 2,637 2,905 2,874 2,579 2,739 5,731 5,317
Porto Trombetas 12 % 308 393 391 275 327 548 601
Sangaredi (b) 1,946 1,953 1,588 1,744 1,614 3,710 3,358
Weipa 100 % 9,240 8,429 8,328 7,492 8,813 17,768 16,304
Rio Tinto total bauxite production 14,131 13,680 13,181 12,089 13,492 27,757 25,581
(a) Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal
produced in concentrates, leach liquor or doré bullion irrespective of
whether these products are then refined onsite, except for the data for
bauxite and iron ore which represent production of marketable quantities of
ore plus concentrates and pellets.
(b) Rio Tinto has a 22.95% shareholding in the Sangaredi mine but benefits
from 45.0% of production.
Rio Tinto share of production
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
interest
2022
2022
2022
2023
2023
2022
2023
BORATES
Production ('000 tonnes B(2)O(3) content)
Rio Tinto Borates - borates 100 % 137 130 141 124 133 260 257
COPPER
Mine production ('000 tonnes) (a)
Bingham Canyon 100 % 33.9 50.7 47.5 30.3 24.8 81.0 55.1
Escondida 30 % 82.3 75.1 73.0 72.3 77.4 150.5 149.7
Oyu Tolgoi (b) 66 % 10.2 12.2 10.8 28.1 28.3 20.4 56.4
Rio Tinto total mine production 126.4 138.0 131.3 130.7 130.5 251.9 261.2
Rio Tinto total mine production - consolidated basis 146.7 162.1 152.8 145.2 145.0 292.3 290.2
Refined production ('000 tonnes)
Escondida 30 % 16.7 14.9 14.9 15.2 21.7 31.1 37.0
Kennecott (c) 100 % 32.7 39.2 36.1 43.6 14.4 72.9 58.1
Rio Tinto total refined production 49.4 54.1 51.0 58.9 36.2 104.1 95.1
(a) Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal
produced in concentrates, leach liquor or doré bullion irrespective of
whether these products are then refined onsite, except for the data for
bauxite and iron ore which represent production of marketable quantities of
ore plus concentrates and pellets.
(b) On 16 December 2022, Rio Tinto completed the acquisition of 100% of
Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd, increasing our ownership in Oyu Tolgoi from
33.52% to 66%. From 1 January 2023, our share of production has been updated
to reflect this change.
(c) We continue to process third party concentrate to optimise smelter
utilisation. There was no cathode produced from purchased concentrate in 2023
year-to-date. Purchased and tolled copper concentrates are excluded from
reported production figures and production guidance. Sales of cathodes
produced from purchased concentrate are included in reported revenues.
DIAMONDS
Production ('000 carats)
Diavik 100 % 1,149 1,192 1,319 954 970 2,140 1,924
GOLD
Mine production ('000 ounces) (a)
Bingham Canyon 100 % 22.8 32.5 29.7 20.6 18.7 60.6 39.3
Escondida 30 % 13.7 11.5 14.5 14.7 16.1 24.6 30.7
Oyu Tolgoi (b) 66 % 16.0 14.3 11.5 29.1 26.6 35.8 55.7
Rio Tinto total mine production 52.5 58.2 55.7 64.4 61.4 121.0 125.7
Refined production ('000 ounces)
Kennecott 100 % 20.9 30.5 30.3 22.0 19.2 53.1 41.2
(a) Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal
produced in concentrates, leach liquor or doré bullion irrespective of
whether these products are then refined onsite, except for the data for
bauxite and iron ore which represent production of marketable quantities of
ore plus concentrates and pellets.
(b) On 16 December 2022, Rio Tinto completed the acquisition of 100% of
Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd, increasing our ownership in Oyu Tolgoi from
33.52% to 66%. From 1 January 2023, our share of production has been updated
to reflect this change.
Rio Tinto share of production
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2023
interest 2022 2022 2022 2023 2023 2022
IRON ORE
Production ('000 tonnes) (a)
Hamersley mines (b) 52,636 56,650 61,339 54,433 55,004 100,315 109,437
Hope Downs 50 % 6,385 6,264 5,945 5,885 5,763 12,215 11,649
Iron Ore Company of Canada 59 % 2,603 2,776 2,530 2,526 2,063 5,007 4,589
Robe River - Pannawonica (Mesas J and A) 53 % 3,054 3,540 4,178 3,123 3,897 5,828 7,020
Robe River - West Angelas 53 % 3,961 4,496 4,424 3,816 3,905 7,740 7,721
Rio Tinto iron ore production ('000 tonnes) 68,640 73,726 78,415 69,784 70,632 131,105 140,416
Breakdown of Production:
Pilbara Blend and SP10 Lump (c) 19,309 21,317 21,443 19,612 21,042 36,391 40,654
Pilbara Blend and SP10 Fines (c) 30,240 32,592 35,097 30,851 31,750 55,898 62,601
Robe Valley Lump 1,180 1,389 1,645 1,136 1,488 2,230 2,624
Robe Valley Fines 1,874 2,151 2,533 1,987 2,409 3,598 4,395
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY) 13,433 13,501 15,168 13,672 11,880 27,981 25,552
Pilbara iron ore production ('000 tonnes) 66,037 70,951 75,886 67,258 68,569 126,098 135,827
IOC Concentrate 1,282 1,237 1,186 1,241 1,120 2,244 2,361
IOC Pellets 1,321 1,539 1,343 1,285 943 2,763 2,228
IOC iron ore production ('000 tonnes) 2,603 2,776 2,530 2,526 2,063 5,007 4,589
Breakdown of Shipments:
Pilbara Blend Lump 12,684 15,301 15,089 15,689 14,691 23,493 30,380
Pilbara Blend Fines 25,156 31,597 32,659 28,528 27,474 46,855 56,002
Robe Valley Lump 971 1,281 1,244 1,051 1,152 1,645 2,203
Robe Valley Fines 2,309 2,392 2,896 2,262 2,489 4,040 4,751
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY) 14,201 13,530 14,661 13,689 12,558 28,689 26,247
SP10 Lump (c) 4,456 1,647 2,824 1,686 1,652 8,283 3,338
SP10 Fines (c) 6,775 3,766 5,062 6,832 6,613 13,843 13,446
Pilbara iron ore shipments ('000 tonnes) (d) 66,552 69,515 74,435 69,738 66,629 126,847 136,367
Pilbara iron ore shipments - consolidated basis ('000 tonnes) (d) (f) 68,114 71,379 76,303 71,505 68,322 129,931 139,827
IOC Concentrate 1,083 1,316 1,174 984 1,247 1,683 2,231
IOC Pellets 1,484 1,443 1,036 1,143 1,352 2,896 2,495
IOC Iron ore shipments ('000 tonnes) (d) 2,567 2,759 2,210 2,127 2,599 4,580 4,726
Rio Tinto iron ore shipments ('000 tonnes) (d) 69,119 72,274 76,645 71,864 69,228 131,427 141,093
Rio Tinto iron ore sales ('000 tonnes) (e) 71,263 74,587 75,337 74,273 71,678 137,946 145,951
(a) Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal
produced in concentrates, leach liquor or doré bullion irrespective of
whether these products are then refined onsite, except for the data for
bauxite and iron ore which represent production of marketable quantities of
ore plus concentrates and pellets.
(b) Includes 100% of production from Paraburdoo, Mt Tom Price, Western Turner
Syncline, Marandoo, Yandicoogina, Brockman, Nammuldi, Silvergrass, Channar,
Gudai-Darri and the Eastern Range mines. Whilst Rio Tinto owns 54% of the
Eastern Range mine, under the terms of the joint venture agreement, Hamersley
Iron manages the operation and is obliged to purchase all mine production from
the joint venture and therefore all of the production is included in Rio
Tinto's share of production.
(c) SP10 includes other lower grade products.
(d) Shipments includes material shipped to our portside trading facility in
China which may not be sold onwards in the same period.
(e) Represents the difference between amounts shipped to portside trading and
onward sales from portside trading, and third party volumes sold.
(f) While Rio Tinto has a 53% net beneficial interest in Robe River Iron
Associates, it recognises 65% of the assets, liabilities, sales revenues and
expenses in its accounts (as 30% is held through a 60% owned subsidiary and
35% is held through a 100% owned subsidiary). The consolidated basis sales
reported here include Robe River Iron Associates on a 65% basis to enable
comparison with revenue reported in the financial statements.
Rio Tinto share of production
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2023
interest 2022 2022 2022 2023 2023 2022
MOLYBDENUM
Mine production ('000 tonnes) (a)
Bingham Canyon 100 % 0.4 0.8 1.1 0.1 0.3 1.5 0.4
(a) Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal
produced in concentrates, leach liquor or doré bullion irrespective of
whether these products are then refined onsite, except for the data for
bauxite and iron ore which represent production of marketable quantities of
ore plus concentrates and pellets.
SALT
Production ('000 tonnes)
Dampier Salt 68 % 1,030 1,674 1,458 1,450 1,652 2,625 3,101
SILVER
Mine production ('000 ounces) (a)
Bingham Canyon 100 % 385 591 521 356 296 945 652
Escondida 30 % 393 363 453 404 302 774 706
Oyu Tolgoi (b) 66 % 67 86 68 176 177 138 352
Rio Tinto total mine production 846 1,040 1,042 935 775 1,858 1,710
Refined production ('000 ounces)
Kennecott 100 % 290 571 512 432 329 867 761
(a) Mine production figures for metals refer to the total quantity of metal
produced in concentrates, leach liquor or doré bullion irrespective of
whether these products are then refined onsite, except for the data for
bauxite and iron ore which represent production of marketable quantities of
ore plus concentrates and pellets.
(b) On 16 December 2022, Rio Tinto completed the acquisition of 100% of
Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd, increasing our ownership in Oyu Tolgoi from
33.52% to 66%. From 1 January 2023, our share of production has been updated
to reflect this change.
TITANIUM DIOXIDE SLAG
Production ('000 tonnes)
Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium (a) 100 % 293 310 323 285 303 566 589
(a) Quantities comprise 100% of Rio Tinto Fer et Titane and Rio Tinto's 74%
interest in Richards Bay Minerals (RBM).
Production figures are sometimes more precise than the rounded numbers shown,
hence small differences may result between the total of the quarter figures
and the year to date figures.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2023.
Rio Tinto operational data
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
interest
2022
2022
2022
2023
2023
2022
2023
ALUMINA
Smelter Grade Alumina - Aluminium Group
Alumina production ('000 tonnes)
Australia
Queensland Alumina Refinery - Queensland 80 % 871 827 847 790 846 1,751 1,637
Yarwun refinery - Queensland 100 % 721 715 769 739 745 1,465 1,483
Brazil
São Luis (Alumar) refinery 10 % 910 946 975 936 657 1,850 1,593
Canada
Jonquière (Vaudreuil) refinery - Quebec (a) 100 % 325 336 368 371 346 659 717
(a) Jonquière's (Vaudreuil's) production shows smelter grade alumina only and
excludes hydrate produced and used for specialty alumina.
Speciality Alumina - Aluminium Group
Speciality alumina production ('000 tonnes)
Canada
Jonquière (Vaudreuil) plant - Quebec 100 % 30 30 29 25 27 55 51
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2023. The data
represents production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.
Rio Tinto operational data
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022 2022 2023 2023
ALUMINIUM
Primary Aluminium
Primary aluminium production ('000 tonnes)
Australia
Bell Bay smelter - Tasmania 100 % 44 46 48 45 46 91 92
Boyne Island smelter - Queensland 59 % 103 110 114 117 123 226 240
Tomago smelter - New South Wales 52 % 145 148 147 145 146 291 291
Canada
Alma smelter - Quebec 100 % 121 122 122 120 121 237 241
Alouette (Sept-Îles) smelter - Quebec 40 % 157 159 158 156 159 311 314
Arvida smelter - Quebec 100 % 42 43 44 43 43 84 85
Arvida AP60 smelter - Quebec 100 % 14 15 15 14 14 28 29
Bécancour smelter - Quebec 25 % 117 116 116 115 118 228 232
Grande-Baie smelter - Quebec 100 % 58 59 58 57 57 115 114
Kitimat smelter - British Columbia 100 % 26 38 57 72 92 50 165
Laterrière smelter - Quebec 100 % 63 64 64 61 62 125 123
Iceland
ISAL (Reykjavik) smelter 100 % 50 51 52 51 52 100 103
New Zealand
Tiwai Point smelter 79 % 83 85 85 83 83 166 166
Oman
Sohar smelter 20 % 98 100 100 98 99 195 197
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2023. The data
represents production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.
Rio Tinto operational data
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022 2022 2023 2023
BAUXITE
Bauxite production ('000 tonnes)
Australia
Gove mine - Northern Territory 100 % 2,637 2,905 2,874 2,579 2,739 5,731 5,317
Weipa mine - Queensland 100 % 9,240 8,429 8,328 7,492 8,813 17,768 16,304
Brazil
Porto Trombetas (MRN) mine 12 % 2,569 3,275 3,256 2,288 2,724 4,569 5,012
Guinea
Sangaredi mine (a) 23 % 4,323 4,339 3,530 3,876 3,586 8,245 7,462
Rio Tinto share of bauxite shipments
Share of total bauxite shipments ('000 tonnes) 14,054 13,294 13,561 12,264 13,603 27,930 25,867
Share of third party bauxite shipments ('000 tonnes) 9,599 9,049 9,233 7,880 9,159 19,734 17,039
(a) Rio Tinto has a 22.95% shareholding in the Sangaredi mine but benefits
from 45.0% of production.
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
interest
2022
2022
2022
2023
2023
2022
2023
BORATES
Rio Tinto Borates - borates 100 %
US
Borates ('000 tonnes) (a) 137 130 141 124 133 260 257
(a) Production is expressed as B(2)O(3) content.
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022 2022 2023 2023
COPPER & GOLD
Escondida 30 %
Chile
Sulphide ore to concentrator ('000 tonnes) 34,318 32,894 33,911 33,309 30,749 64,553 64,058
Average copper grade (%) 0.87 0.83 0.76 0.78 0.93 0.84 0.85
Mill production (metals in concentrates):
Contained copper ('000 tonnes) 239.5 214.6 212.8 210.0 228.9 430.9 438.9
Contained gold ('000 ounces) 45.8 38.2 48.4 49.0 53.5 82.1 102.5
Contained silver ('000 ounces) 1,311 1,210 1,510 1,346 1,008 2,581 2,353
Recoverable copper in ore stacked for leaching ('000 tonnes) (a) 34.8 35.8 30.4 31.0 29.1 70.7 60.2
Refined production from leach plants:
Copper cathode production ('000 tonnes) 55.7 49.6 49.7 50.8 72.4 103.8 123.2
(a) The calculation of copper in material mined for leaching is based on ore
stacked at the leach pad.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2023. The data
represents production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.
Rio Tinto operational data
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022 2022 2023 2023
COPPER & GOLD (continued)
Kennecott
Bingham Canyon mine 100 %
Utah, US
Ore treated ('000 tonnes) 6,862 10,125 10,449 7,405 5,339 16,991 12,744
Average ore grade:
Copper (%) 0.55 0.56 0.52 0.47 0.52 0.53 0.49
Gold (g/t) 0.17 0.16 0.14 0.12 0.16 0.18 0.14
Silver (g/t) 2.39 2.50 2.20 2.16 2.36 2.37 2.24
Molybdenum (%) 0.017 0.021 0.020 0.012 0.018 0.019 0.014
Copper concentrates produced ('000 tonnes) 136 192 184 116 92 312 208
Average concentrate grade (% Cu) 24.9 26.2 25.6 26.1 26.8 26.0 26.4
Production of metals in copper concentrates:
Copper ('000 tonnes) (a) 33.9 50.7 47.5 30.3 24.8 81.0 55.1
Gold ('000 ounces) 22.8 32.5 29.7 20.6 18.7 60.6 39.3
Silver ('000 ounces) 385 591 521 356 296 945 652
Molybdenum concentrates produced ('000 tonnes): 0.9 1.8 2.0 0.1 0.6 2.9 0.7
Molybdenum in concentrates ('000 tonnes) 0.4 0.8 1.1 0.1 0.3 1.5 0.4
Kennecott smelter & refinery 100 %
Copper concentrates smelted ('000 tonnes) 152 166 194 200 41 365 241
Copper anodes produced ('000 tonnes) (b) 27.9 46.2 24.5 55.1 18.2 73.7 73.3
Production of refined metal:
Copper ('000 tonnes) (c) 32.7 39.2 36.1 43.6 14.4 72.9 58.1
Gold ('000 ounces) (d) 20.9 30.5 30.3 22.0 19.2 53.1 41.2
Silver ('000 ounces) (d) 290 571 512 432 329 867 761
(a) Includes a small amount of copper in precipitates.
(b) New metal excluding recycled material.
(c) We continue to process third party concentrate to optimise smelter
utilisation. There was no cathode produced from purchased concentrate in 2023
year-to-date. Purchased and tolled copper concentrates are excluded from
reported production figures and production guidance. Sales of cathodes
produced from purchased concentrate are included in reported revenues.
(d) Includes gold and silver in intermediate products.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2023. The data
represents production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.
Rio Tinto operational data
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022 2022 2023 2023
COPPER & GOLD (continued)
Oyu Tolgoi mine (a) 66 %
Mongolia
Ore Treated ('000 tonnes) - Open Pit 9,225 10,141 8,900 9,613 8,809 18,545 18,421
Ore Treated ('000 tonnes) - Underground 460 544 510 675 900 721 1,575
Ore Treated ('000 tonnes) - Total 9,685 10,685 9,411 10,288 9,709 19,266 19,996
Average mill head grades:
Open Pit
Copper (%) 0.39 0.40 0.41 0.43 0.41 0.39 0.42
Gold (g/t) 0.26 0.22 0.20 0.21 0.19 0.29 0.20
Silver (g/t) 1.12 1.28 1.14 1.16 1.10 1.19 1.13
Underground
Copper (%) 0.57 0.82 1.03 1.36 1.56 0.51 1.47
Gold (g/t) 0.24 0.22 0.29 0.35 0.38 0.22 0.36
Silver (g/t) 1.73 2.16 2.54 3.26 3.67 1.48 3.49
Total
Copper (%) 0.40 0.42 0.45 0.49 0.52 0.40 0.51
Gold (g/t) 0.26 0.22 0.21 0.22 0.21 0.29 0.21
Silver (g/t) 1.15 1.32 1.21 1.30 1.34 1.20 1.32
Copper concentrates produced ('000 tonnes) 146.0 173.6 151.9 201.8 200.3 290.3 402.0
Average concentrate grade (% Cu) 20.9 20.9 21.3 21.1 21.4 21.0 21.2
Production of metals in concentrates:
Copper in concentrates ('000 tonnes) 30.6 36.3 32.3 42.6 42.8 60.8 85.4
Gold in concentrates ('000 ounces) 47.6 42.7 34.2 44.1 40.3 106.8 84.4
Silver in concentrates ('000 ounces) 201 256 204 266 268 412 534
Sales of metals in concentrates:
Copper in concentrates ('000 tonnes) 35.3 41.8 25.3 41.4 43.2 65.2 84.6
Gold in concentrates ('000 ounces) 67.9 56.0 26.2 44.0 40.4 125.3 84.4
Silver in concentrates ('000 ounces) 224 282 152 242 257 403 499
(a) On 16 December 2022, Rio Tinto completed the acquisition of 100% of
Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd, increasing our ownership in Oyu Tolgoi from
33.52% to 66%. From 1 January 2023, our share of production has been updated
to reflect this change.
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022 2022 2023 2023
DIAMONDS
Diavik Diamonds 100 %
Northwest Territories, Canada
Ore processed ('000 tonnes) 537 590 535 427 446 1,033 873
Diamonds recovered ('000 carats) 1,149 1,192 1,319 954 970 2,140 1,924
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2023. The data
represents production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.
Rio Tinto operational data
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
2023
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022
IRON ORE
Rio Tinto Iron Ore
Western Australia
Pilbara Operations
Saleable iron ore production ('000 tonnes)
Hamersley mines (a) 52,636 56,650 61,339 54,433 55,004 100,315 109,437
Hope Downs 50 % 12,771 12,529 11,891 11,771 11,527 24,431 23,298
Robe River - Pannawonica (Mesas J and A) 53 % 5,762 6,679 7,882 5,892 7,353 10,996 13,244
Robe River - West Angelas 53 % 7,474 8,484 8,347 7,200 7,368 14,604 14,568
Total production ('000 tonnes) 78,643 84,342 89,458 79,296 81,251 150,346 160,547
Breakdown of total production:
Pilbara Blend and SP10 Lump (b) 23,228 25,452 25,251 23,196 24,910 44,055 48,106
Pilbara Blend and SP10 Fines (b) 36,220 38,709 41,158 36,537 37,108 67,314 73,645
Robe Valley Lump 2,226 2,621 3,103 2,143 2,808 4,208 4,952
Robe Valley Fines 3,536 4,058 4,779 3,748 4,544 6,788 8,293
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY) 13,433 13,501 15,168 13,672 11,880 27,981 25,552
Breakdown of total shipments:
Pilbara Blend Lump 16,043 18,860 18,153 18,733 17,757 29,669 36,489
Pilbara Blend Fines 32,243 38,186 38,835 35,349 33,668 60,158 69,018
Robe Valley Lump 1,832 2,417 2,348 1,983 2,173 3,105 4,156
Robe Valley Fines 4,357 4,514 5,464 4,268 4,696 7,623 8,964
Yandicoogina Fines (HIY) 14,201 13,530 14,661 13,689 12,558 28,689 26,247
SP10 Lump (b) 4,456 1,647 2,824 1,686 1,652 8,283 3,338
SP10 Fines (b) 6,775 3,766 5,062 6,832 6,613 13,843 13,446
Total shipments ('000 tonnes) (c) 79,907 82,920 87,347 82,540 79,118 151,369 161,658
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
2023
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022
Iron Ore Company of Canada 59 %
Newfoundland & Labrador and Quebec in Canada
Saleable iron ore production:
Concentrates ('000 tonnes) 2,183 2,106 2,020 2,113 1,908 3,821 4,021
Pellets ('000 tonnes) 2,250 2,621 2,288 2,189 1,605 4,706 3,794
IOC Total production ('000 tonnes) 4,433 4,727 4,308 4,302 3,513 8,527 7,816
Shipments:
Concentrates ('000 tonnes) 1,845 2,241 1,999 1,676 2,124 2,867 3,800
Pellets ('000 tonnes) 2,527 2,457 1,764 1,947 2,302 4,932 4,248
IOC Total Shipments ('000 tonnes) (c) 4,372 4,699 3,763 3,622 4,426 7,799 8,048
Global Iron Ore Totals
Iron Ore Production ('000 tonnes) 83,076 89,069 93,766 83,599 84,764 158,873 168,363
Iron Ore Shipments ('000 tonnes) 84,279 87,619 91,110 86,162 83,543 159,168 169,706
Iron Ore Sales ('000 tonnes) (d) 86,108 89,689 89,650 88,490 85,601 165,302 174,091
(a) Includes 100% of production from Paraburdoo, Mt Tom Price, Western Turner
Syncline, Marandoo, Yandicoogina, Brockman, Nammuldi, Silvergrass, Channar,
Gudai-Darri and the Eastern Range mines. Whilst Rio Tinto owns 54% of the
Eastern Range mine, under the terms of the joint venture agreement, Hamersley
Iron manages the operation and is obliged to purchase all mine production from
the joint venture and therefore all of the production is included in Rio
Tinto's share of production.
(b) SP10 includes other lower grade products.
(c) Shipments includes material shipped to our portside trading facility in
China which may not be sold onwards in the same period.
(d) Include Pilbara and IOC sales adjusted for portside trading movements and
third party volumes sold.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2023. The data
represents production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.
Rio Tinto operational data
Rio Tinto Q2 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 H1 H1
2022
2023
2023
2022
2023
interest 2022 2022
SALT
Dampier Salt 68 %
Western Australia
Salt production ('000 tonnes) 1,507 2,449 2,133 2,121 2,416 3,840 4,537
TITANIUM DIOXIDE SLAG
Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium 100 %
Canada and South Africa
(Rio Tinto share) (a)
Titanium dioxide slag ('000 tonnes) 293 310 323 285 303 566 589
(a) Quantities comprise 100% of Rio Tinto Fer et Titane and Rio Tinto's 74%
interest in Richards Bay Minerals' production. Ilmenite mined in Madagascar is
being processed in Canada.
Rio Tinto percentage interest shown above is at 30 June 2023. The data
represents production and sales on a 100% basis unless otherwise stated.
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