Rio Tinto reported record Pilbara shipments, strong copper and lithium growth, and maintained guidance for 2026.
The Rio Tinto Ltd (ASX: RIO) share price was in focus today as the company reported standout 2025 fourth quarter results, including an 8% increase in copper-equivalent (CuEq) production for the year and record shipments from its Pilbara iron ore operations.
Rio Tinto’s operational results reflected strong recovery from earlier weather issues and highlighted expansion milestones, such as first exports from the Simandou iron ore project in Guinea. The company delivered project ramp-ups across copper, bauxite, and lithium, underpinned by ongoing improvements in operational efficiency.
Expenditure on exploration and evaluation dropped to US$795 million, primarily as more costs were capitalised relating to the Rincon lithium project. Management reaffirmed production guidance for 2026, keeping targets in line with strategic plans outlined at the company’s recent Capital Markets Day.