Rio Tinto Group (RIO) Status update summary

Operational performance

• Achieved 9% year-on-year copper equivalent production growth, driven by strong ramp-up at Oyu Tolgoi and robust aluminium output despite weather disruptions.

• Pilbara iron ore production rose 13% YoY, with sales up 2%, though shipments were impacted by cyclones; about half of the 8 Mt shipment loss is expected to be recovered.

• First full SimFer shipment of high-grade Simandou iron ore delivered to China, with first sales realized in April.

• Bauxite production fell 11% YoY due to severe weather, but alumina and aluminium production increased 6% and 1% respectively.

• Lithium projects Fenix 1B and Sal de Vida reached mechanical completion, with first production on track for H2 2026.

Safety and risk management

• Two fatalities occurred at Simandou and Kennecott, prompting immediate shutdowns and staged restarts.

• Renewed focus on critical risk management and compliance, with leaders personally accountable for fatality prevention controls.

Guidance and productivity

• 2026 production and unit cost guidance remain unchanged across all major commodities.

• $650 million in annualized productivity benefits fully implemented, with further improvements underway.