BHP has achieved record copper and iron ore production in the 2024–25 financial year (FY25), further cementing its position as a global mining powerhouse.
The miner’s group copper production surged eight per cent to more than two million tonnes, the highest in BHP’s history. This marks the third straight year of growth and a 28 per cent jump since FY22.
Escondida in Chile led the charge, boosting output by 16 per cent to its highest level in 17 years, with gains driven by stronger feed grades, improved recoveries and the successful ramp-up of the Full SaL leaching project.
Spence, another Chilean BHP asset, also posted record copper output, contributing to the company’s stellar year.
BHP’s Copper South Australia operation finished FY25 on a high, setting new quarterly and annual production records despite earlier weather disruptions.
Across the group, copper production passed two million tonnes, underscoring BHP’s critical role in the global energy transition.
Iron ore production also hit new highs, with total output reaching 263 million tonnes.
Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) delivered 257 million tonnes, setting a full-year record despite severe weather and Cyclone Zelia.
South Flank, which is among Australia’s largest new iron ore mines, also exceeded nameplate capacity in its first full year of operation, having been delivered on time and on budget in FY24.
Additionally, investments in rail, ports and technology helped drive stronger performance across BHP’s infrastructure hubs according to BHP chief executive officer Mike Henry.
BHP also reported a five per cent rise in steelmaking coal production, and noted that in Canada, Jansen Stage 1 continues to progress with capital costs revised to between $US7 and $US7.4 billion and first production still targeted for mid-2027.
Its FY26 guidance sees copper production between 1.8–2 million tonnes and iron ore output rising to 258–269 million tonnes.
