Rio Tinto Marks Eight-Billionth Tonne Shipment, Eyes 100 Mtpa Rhodes Ridge
RIO•Rio Tinto has dispatched its eight-billionth tonne of Pilbara iron ore, shipped on May 19 from Cape Lambert port to Nippon Steel, marking 60 years since its first 1966 WA-to-Japan export. The company’s Pilbara operations, supplying 345–360 Mtpa, are buttressed by the 50%-held Rhodes Ridge deposit, targeting 100 Mtpa.
1. Eight-Billionth Tonne Milestone
Rio Tinto’s eight-billionth tonne shipment departed Cape Lambert port on May 19 aboard the Juno Horizon bound for Nippon Steel, marking 60 years since its first Pilbara iron ore export in August 1966.
2. Regional Development Impact
Pilbara operations have driven growth in Dampier, Karratha, Pannawonica, Paraburdoo, Tom Price and Wickham, while fly-in fly-out arrangements support five additional communities across Western Australia.
3. Rhodes Ridge Project Outlook
The 50%-owned Rhodes Ridge deposit is regarded as one of the largest undeveloped iron ore projects globally, with potential to deliver approximately 100 Mtpa of higher-grade ore to underpin future output.
4. Future Production Targets
Rio Tinto’s Pilbara network remains on track for a medium-term production range of 345–360 Mtpa, setting the stage for continued investment to meet rising global steel demand.
