Rio Tinto Raises 2025 Copper Output Outlook as Oyu Tolgoi Expansion Accelerates

Rio Tinto has increased its 2025 copper production forecast, highlighting stronger-than-expected progress at its Oyu Tolgoi mine in Mongolia. The company now anticipates consolidated copper output of 860,000 to 875,000 metric tonsnext year, up from its previous guidance of 780,000 to 850,000 tons. For 2026, Rio Tinto projects copper production in the range of 800,000 to 870,000 tons, underscoring the miner’s long-term commitment to expanding its copper portfolio.

Although Rio Tinto’s earnings have traditionally been driven by iron ore, the miner is accelerating its strategic shift toward copper—a metal increasingly vital for global electrification, renewable energy systems, and electric vehicle manufacturing. With copper prices hitting record highs and demand expected to surge amid the transition to cleaner energy, Rio Tinto aims to lift its annual copper production to 1 million tons by 2030.

The company confirmed it remains on schedule to increase output at Oyu Tolgoi by more than 50% in 2024, followed by an additional 15% boost in 2026. This rapid ramp-up reflects the mine’s growing importance in Rio Tinto’s broader growth strategy and the company’s confidence in stable long-term copper demand.

Rio Tinto also announced plans to cut unit costs by 4% between 2024 and 2030, reinforcing its commitment to capital discipline and operational efficiency. Combined with stronger commodity prices and an expected 20% rise in copper production, the miner stated these factors could lift earnings by as much as 50% by the end of the decade.

By strengthening its copper portfolio and optimizing operations, Rio Tinto is positioning itself to benefit from one of the most influential trends in global resource markets: the accelerating shift toward green energy and electrification.