BHP Group (ASX:BHP) has released its operational review for the half-year ended Dec. 31, 2024, highlighting robust performance in copper production, which increased by 10% year-on-year.
The company's performance at its flagship copper asset, Escondida, was pivotal in achieving this growth.
Escondida's copper production rose by 22%, marking a ten-year high despite challenges such as a weather-related power outage in Copper South Australia.
BHP also reported record shipments from its Western Australia Iron Ore assets, enabled by supply chain improvements.
"BHP delivered safe and reliable performance in the first half. Our flagship copper, iron ore, and steelmaking coal assets delivered particularly strong production in the period. Copper volumes rose 10%, with Escondida achieving a ten-year production record," said Mike Henry, BHP CEO.
BHP also advanced its future growth pathways with the formation of Vicuña Corp., a joint venture with Lundin Mining to develop the Filo del Sol and Josemaria projects in Argentina.
The Jansen Stage 1 Potash Project in Canada is now 63% complete, with the first production targeted for late 2026.
The company reaffirmed its commitment to sector-leading cost discipline, positioning itself for continued momentum into the second half of the financial year.
Guidance remains unchanged across most assets, with Copper SA being an exception due to weather impacts.