LONDON (Scrap Register): Rio Tinto has lowered its 2020 copper production guidance due to the Covid-19 pandemic and an earthquake last month at its Kennecott operations in the US state of Utah.
Mined copper production this year is now expected to be 475,000-520,000 tonnes, down from 530,000-570,000 tonnes previously, while guidance for refined copper production has been cut to 165,000-205,000 tonnes from 205,000-235,000 tonnes previously.
“Mined and refined copper guidance is lowered due to a potential reduction in second half output at Escondida from Covid-19 measures and the earthquake repairs at Kennecott,” the company said.
