BHP has started the 2025–26 financial year (FY26) strongly, led by record copper production and progress on key growth projects.
Copper output rose 4 per cent to 494,000 tonnes, driven by record concentrator throughput at Escondida. The site also saw improved recoveries, while cathode production increased with the continued ramp-up of the Full SaL (Simple Approach to Leaching) project, which reached first production in the fourth quarter of FY25.
Copper South Australia maintained stable output, supported by improved mine productivity at Olympic Dam and Prominent Hill, offsetting the impact of major planned maintenance.
“We’ve made a strong start to the year, highlighted by disciplined operating performance and execution of scheduled maintenance,” BHP chief executive officer Mike Henry said.
BHP is advancing its copper growth pipeline in Chile and Australia. Environmental approval was secured for the Laguna Seca expansion at Escondida, enabling early infrastructure development.
Meanwhile, a new Escondida concentrator permit remains on track for submission in the second half of FY26. These projects are central to BHP’s strategy to expand copper production and strengthen its position in a tightening global market.
“Overall macro-economic signals for commodity demand remain resilient and global growth forecasts are moving higher.” Henry said. “In copper, major disruptions at some of our competitors’ mines have tightened overall market fundamentals, benefitting our world-class portfolio of assets.
“With momentum from a strong first quarter, BHP is on track to deliver on full-year guidance.”
BHP is also integrating technology upgrades and renewable energy solutions to boost productivity and decarbonise operations.
The company’s first-quarter performance underscores its focus on operational excellence, disciplined execution and strategic growth, positioning it to capitalise on strong copper demand and market fundamentals.
With copper remaining a critical driver of global decarbonisation and infrastructure, BHP’s world-class assets and ongoing expansions reinforce its stage for continued growth through FY26 and beyond.
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