Rio Tinto CEO Simon Trott emphasized in his statement that safety continues to be a top priority: “The tragic death of Mohamed Camara at the SimFer mine was a profound loss for all of us. This incident has reminded us of the need to further strengthen our safety culture across the entire group.”
Trott also highlighted the company’s ongoing efforts to enhance asset performance: “We have achieved consecutive quarterly production records in our bauxite business and at Oyu Tolgoi. The underground expansion at Oyu Tolgoi is progressing toward our goal of increasing copper production by more than 50% this year. We aim to finish the year strongly in Pilbara. Additionally, in our Simandou project, we began the first ore shipments from the mine in October.”
Production Maintains Strong Momentum
According to Rio Tinto’s released data, copper-equivalent production in Q3 2025 rose 9% compared to the same period last year. Total copper production reached 204,000 tons, with the company expected to hit the upper end of its annual target.
On the iron ore side, Pilbara’s quarterly shipments reached 84.3 million tons, marking the second-highest third-quarter shipment level since 2019. The company also announced that government approvals for the West Angelas Sustainability Project in Western Australia were obtained in October.
Bauxite production increased by 9% year-on-year and 5% quarter-on-quarter to 16.4 million tons, driven by operational efficiency improvements. As a result, the year-end bauxite production target was raised to 59–61 million tons (previously 57–59 million tons).
Alumina production rose 7% to 1.9 million tons, while aluminum production increased 6% to 860,000 tons.
Restructuring and Medium-Term Growth Targets
The company adopted a simplified operational model to enhance shareholder value, focusing on three main business areas: iron ore, aluminum & lithium, and copper. Borates and the iron-titanium segments are under strategic review.
Regarding medium-term objectives, Trott stated: “We are progressing in line with our 2025 production guidance. With the upward revision in bauxite production, we expect to achieve strong growth momentum in the medium term. By focusing on operational excellence, simplification, and capital discipline, we will continue to create value for our shareholders.”
2025 Production Guidance (Selected Items)
| Product | Q3 2025 Production | Annual Target | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pilbara iron ore shipments | 84.3 Mt | 323–338 Mt (lower end) | Unchanged |
| Bauxite | 16.4 Mt | 59–61 Mt | Upgraded |
| Copper | 204 kt | 780–850 kt (upper end) | Unchanged |
| Alumina | 1.9 Mt | 7.4–7.8 Mt | Unchanged |
| Aluminum | 0.86 Mt | 3.25–3.45 Mt | Unchanged |
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