BHP Group Limited Posts Record Nine‐Month Copper and Iron Ore Output, Driving Resilient Growth in FY25 Amid Global Market Volatility
Thursday, April 17, 2025
at
4:27 pm
BHP Group Limited delivered record nine‐month production in copper and iron ore, showcasing robust resilience amid global challenges. A 10% boost in copper output and record volume from its WA iron ore operations reinforce its position for high-return organic growth and strong margins, even in market volatility.
BHP GROUP LIMITED has delivered strong nine‐month production results ending 31 March 2025, with record outputs in both copper and iron ore. The company’s copper production increased by 10% year‐on‐year to 1.5 million tonnes, driven largely by a 20% rise at its Escondida operation alongside solid performances across other assets like Spence and Copper South Australia. In parallel, its Western Australia iron ore operations reported record tonnes from the Central Pilbara hub despite challenges from Tropical Cyclone Zelia and Tropical Storm Sean. Overall guidance for FY25 remains unchanged at key assets, with copper production expected in the upper half of the range and iron ore production holding steady.
The technical indicators show notable improvements with the average realised copper price rising 13% to US$4.19 per lb, while the iron ore price jumped 21% to US$104.53 per wet metric tonne. In the steelmaking coal segment, BHP’s operations in Queensland saw a 5% volume increase in the wet season, although adverse weather and geotechnical challenges led to higher unit costs, now expected between US$128 and US$133 per tonne. BHP is also advancing significant projects, such as the Potash Jansen developments in Canada, and has taken steps to extend the life of the Los Colorados concentrator beyond FY29 – actions that could add around 400 kilotonnes of incremental copper production through FY31.
BHP’s efforts to improve its operational performance include robust supply chain management and proactive adjustments to counter weather and market disruptions. The group has boosted female representation to 40% globally, reinforcing its focus on safety and productivity while addressing ongoing labor and skills challenges. Decarbonisation initiatives continue, as BHP works to reduce operational greenhouse gas emissions by at least 30% by FY30 through investments in zero-emission technology and site trials.
Market sentiment appears mixed. On the bullish side, record production figures, strong pricing on core commodities, and ongoing strategic investments in growth projects and decarbonisation underscore BHP’s resilience and leadership in a volatile global market. Conversely, bearish concerns linger over the impact of external factors such as weather-related disruptions, potential cost pressures at certain assets, and a gradually slowing global economic environment that could influence trading dynamics. Overall, BHP GROUP LIMITED demonstrates a capacity to navigate short-term uncertainties while positioning itself for long-term high-return organic opportunities.