Rio Tinto releases third quarter 2026 production results

Simon Trott, Chief Executive of Rio Tinto

“We delivered strong operational performance in the third quarter. Oyu Tolgoi copper production increased 29% year-to-date, with the operation running at a ~450 kt annualised rate in the quarter, and global iron ore sales are up 3% year-to-date. The Simandou iron ore mine hit an annualised production run-rate of ~10 Mtpa (100% basis) in the quarter as the project continues to ramp up.”

Simon Trott, Chief Executive of Rio Tinto

“We are finishing the year with momentum, with significant opportunities to accelerate improvements in safety, productivity and reliability through implementation of our operating system. We remain on track for a $1.8 billion annualised productivity benefit run-rate by the end of 2026. Our major projects remain on schedule and budget, underwriting our growth profile to 2030.”

Simon Trott, Chief Executive of Rio Tinto

“We made further significant steps in decarbonising our business in the third quarter, with our Pacific Aluminium smelter repowering arrangements now well progressed.”

Simon Trott, Chief Executive of Rio Tinto

“Today, we announce that we have achieved more than $2 billion(1) of capital release year-to-date, as we actively manage our portfolio with discipline to maximise long-term value, as part of the $5 to 10 billion capital release program.”