:: Minera Alumbrera Concentrator Expansion

Xstrata Copper has announced a USD15.5 million expansion of the concentrator at the Minera Alumbrera open pit copper-gold mining and processing operation in Argentina and an extension of more than 10% in Ore Reserves at the mine.

The concentrator expansion is expected to increase mill throughputs by 8%, from 37 million tonnes per annum to 40 million tonnes per annum, with a corresponding increase in concentrate production levels. The expansion, which is scheduled for commissioning in December 2006, will further improve mill productivities and fully utilise the downstream capacity of the pipeline and filter plant.