Rio Tinto recently released its fourth quarter operations review. Rio Tinto Alcan’s bauxite production was 13% higher than the fourth quarter of 2010, and 9% higher year on year, driven by increased third-party demand, notably at Weipa. Alumina production was 7% higher than the third quarter and continued its gradual recovery from the abnormally heavy rains in early 2011, which primarily impacted Queensland Alumina. Pacific Aluminium’s Gove operation set annual records for both bauxite and alumina production.

“Across the group, production has bounced back from the severe weather conditions experienced in the first half, which had the biggest impact on Australian iron ore, coal and uranium,” said Tom Albanese, chief executive.

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