Rio Tinto Boosts Global Copper and Aluminium Output in Early 2025

Rio Tinto Mining

Amrun Bauxite and Alumina Operations Drive Growth

Rio Tinto increased its global copper and aluminium output in the first quarter of 2025. The UK-Australian producer reported 15mn tonnes of bauxite and 1.9mn tonnes of alumina production from January to March, up 12pc and 3pc year-on-year respectively.

Meanwhile, its Amrun bauxite mine in Queensland exceeded nameplate capacity. Alumina output also rebounded from prior gas supply disruptions. Despite global supply headwinds, Rio Tinto maintained its full-year guidance for all major commodities including 3.25mn–3.45mn tonnes of aluminium and up to 850,000 tonnes of copper.

Aluminium Output Stable Amid Energy Constraints

Rio Tinto’s aluminium production remained flat year-on-year. Its Tiwai Point smelter in New Zealand operated at reduced capacity due to a request from Meridian Energy. However, a production ramp-up is scheduled for late August.

At the same time, the Kitimat smelter in Canada faced energy supply issues that limited further growth. While the US announced new tariffs on aluminium and steel in March, Rio Tinto confirmed minimal short-term shipment impact. Yet, long-term consequences remain uncertain for its Australian smelters.

Copper Output Rises Despite Refining Cuts

Copper output rose across Rio Tinto’s operations in Utah, Chile, and Mongolia. However, refining volumes declined by 10pc owing to depleted stockpiles and technical issues at Utah’s Kennecott site.

As a result, Rio Tinto is expanding the Kennecott mine with a new underground section. The North Rim Skarn, initially scheduled for 2024, will now start operations in the second half of 2025 and is expected to boost copper capacity by 250,000 t/yr.

 

The Metalnomist Commentary

Rio Tinto’s Q1 output results suggest strong upstream resilience, especially in bauxite. However, energy access and refining disruptions remain critical variables. The success of Kennecott’s expansion will be key to meeting 2025 copper targets.