South32’s March 2025 quarter was a valuable one for the company, seeing an increase in copper and aluminium production.
The company’s net cash increased by $US299 million ($466 million), including a one-off receipt of $US100 million ($155.9 million) in relation to operational agreements at the Worsley alumina mine in Western Australia.
Worsley was a particular standout for the quarter, with its mine development project receiving environmental approval from the Federal Government in February and the progression towards resumption of export sales from Australia Manganese throughout March.
South32 completed planned calciner maintenance and commenced work on the Worsley development project which is set to provide improved access to bauxite and sustain production until FY36.
Copper production increased by 18 per cent, with the Sierra Gorda copper mine in Chile enjoying higher grades, and aluminium production jumped by six per cent as the Mozal aluminium mine approached nameplate capacity during the quarter.
“Another strong quarter of operating performance saw our net cash position increase by $US299 million to $US252 million,” South32 chief executive officer Graham Kerr said.
“Looking ahead, our focus on operating discipline, active cost management and a strong balance sheet leaves us well positioned to manage a period of potential uncertainty in global markets.”
Alumina production also increased at the company’s Brazilian operations, recording a jump of six per cent year-to-date as the refinery benefited from improved plant availability.
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