Vale's Iron Ore Output At 82 Mt In Q1

Vale achieved an iron ore production volume of 82 million tons (mt) in Q1 of 2018, mainly due to the company’s decision to progressively reduce lower grade ore production from the southern and south eastern systems, which resulted in a 4.9 percent reduction when compared to Q1 of 2017.

Additionally, a more intense rainy season in Q1 of 2018 also contributed to this impact. Compared to Q4 of 2017, production was 12.2 percent lower due to this amplified weather-related seasonality in Brazil.

Nevertheless, sales volumes of iron ore and pellets stood at 84.3 mt in Q1 of 2018, 6.4 mt higher than in Q1 of 17, achieving a record for a first quarter, as a result of the flexibility and active management of its supply chain, optimising price realisation and margins, thus resulting in a higher sales or production ratio. In the coming quarters, the sales or production ratio will reflect the ongoing offshore blending activities, completing the build-up of offshore stocks.

Anglo American’s Kumba iron ore output up 4% in Q1

Anglo American reported an increase in its Kumba iron ore production by 4 percent to 10.9 mt, driven by improved productivity at Kolomela.