On April 22, UK-based diversified mining giant Anglo American plc issued its production results for the first quarter of 2010.
Anglo American plc stated that in the first quarter this year its iron ore production increased by 23 percent to 12.3 million mt compared to the same period of 2009 as Sishen's jig plant owned by South African subsidiary Kumba continues to ramp up to full production. The company said that the demand for iron ore continues to recover in Europe, Japan and Korea which, coupled with continued strong demand from China, resulted in Kumba's export sales in the quarter of 9.3 million mt, an increase of 21 percent on Q4 2009.
The mining giant said that in the quarter in question nickel production increased by seven percent year on year to 4,800 mt. The production was impacted by maintenance stoppages at the Codemin reduction furnace and by the temporary suspension of operations at Loma de Níquel following the expiration of the slag deposition permit.
In Q1 this year Metallurgical coal production increased by 32 percent year on year to 3.6 million mt. Production of metallurgical coal from Anglo American's Australian operations increased by 42 percent, in response to strengthening market demand. Sales volumes benefited from preparations that were made in Q4 2009 as cyclonic rain conditions struck Queensland in Q1 2010.
The mining giant also pointed out that its zinc sales process is well advanced and is highly competitive.