Rio Tinto has shipped four billion tonnes of iron ore to China from its iron ore operations in the Pilbara region of Western Australia.
The shipment was loaded at the Port of Dampier on July 19 for dispatchment to China Baowu Steel Group, the world’s largest steelmaker.
The amount of iron ore shipped is said to be enough to produce the steel needed for about 45,000 Sydney Harbour Bridges.
“China has been a critical partner for Rio Tinto and for Australia’s mining industry for more than five decades,” Rio Tinto Iron Ore chief executive officer (CEO) Simon Trott said.
“China’s strong demand for high-quality minerals such as iron ore has generated substantial opportunities for investment and trade between the two countries.
“Every time I visit China and see the skyscrapers, the high-speed rail, and all the infrastructure that has helped improve the lives of 1.4 billion people, it makes me proud to think that most of what I see contains steel that was made with Rio Tinto iron ore.
“We look forward to continuing our relationship with China well into the future as we continue to deepen our strategic partnership.”
This milestone took place 51 years after the first shipment of almost 22,000 tonnes of iron ore was sent from the Port of Dampier to China’s Shanghai No.1 Steel Mill, which is now part of China Baowu.
Rio Tinto has also donated $CAN125,000 ($136,263) to the Canadian Red Cross to provide relief to those impacted by the recent wildfires in the Labrador West region, an area in which its Iron Ore Company of Canada (IOC) operates.
The major miner also committed an additional $CAN75,000 ($81.7 million) to support community organisations assisting with the recovery phase.
The $CAN200,000 ($218,000) in funding will help the Canadian Red Cross and local organisations provide crucial items to those in need, including food, shelter, and essential supplies.
“During these challenging times, the strength of our community lies in cooperation and mutual support,” Rio Tinto IOC president and CEO Mike McCann said.
“Rio Tinto IOC is actively contributing to the recovery efforts alongside local authorities and community organisations. We have been a part of this community for 70 years, and we are proud to partner with the Canadian Red Cross and local organisations to bring relief to our community during this challenging time.”