- Iron ore sales broadly stable despite cyclone disruptions
- Ministers North project strengthens future ore pipeline
BHP reported broadly stable iron ore production for the year ended 30 June 2026 (FY’26), as stronger output from the Central Pilbara operations offset declines at mature mining hubs. While weather-related disruptions during the March quarter affected quarterly production and shipments, the miner delivered record performance across several WAIO assets and maintained overall production in line with the previous year. Meanwhile, Samarco continued its operational recovery, posting a sharp increase in annual output.
WAIO production remains steady
Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) iron ore production (100% basis) stood at 291.16 mnt in FY’26, marginally up from 289.99 mnt in FY’25. On BHP’s attributable basis (85%), production remained largely unchanged at 256.88 mnt, compared with 256.60 mnt in the previous year.
During the June 2026 quarter, production increased to 74.84 mnt (100% basis), up 7% q-o-q from 69.75 mnt in the March quarter and 4% y-o-y from 71.48 mnt in the corresponding quarter last year. The sequential recovery followed the easing of cyclone-related disruptions experienced during Q3FY’26.
Among WAIO operations, Area C recorded the strongest performance, with production rising 8% y-o-y to 129.03 mnt. Output declined at Newman (-3%), Yandi (-21%) and Jimblebar (-7%), reflecting mine sequencing and operational factors.
Samarco’s production rises
Samarco produced 7.84 mnt in FY’26, up 25% y-o-y from 6.25 mnt in FY’25. June quarter production stood at 1.95 mnt, broadly unchanged from the previous quarter. Sales increased 38% y-o-y to 8.09 mnt, supported by improved operational performance during the year.
Iron ore sales firm y-o-y
WAIO iron ore sales (100% basis) totalled 288.10 mnt in FY’26, compared with 287.63 mnt in FY’25. June quarter sales rose to 75.11 mnt from 67.00 mnt in the previous quarter as shipments recovered following cyclone-related disruptions.
Product mix remained largely stable during the year. Lump production increased 4% y-o-y to 82.74 mnt, while fines production declined 2% to 171.64 mnt.
Other highlights
BHP approved the Ministers North project during FY’26, enabling the first declaration of Ore Reserves for the Brockman-hosted deposit. The project has been incorporated into WAIO’s Ore Reserve base and is expected to support replacement mine supply across the Pilbara over the longer term.
Production guidance for FY’26 remains unchanged
BHP has guided FY’27 iron ore production at 260-272 mnt, equivalent to 286-298 mnt on a 100% basis.
WAIO guidance has been set at 253-264 mnt, while Samarco is expected to produce 7.5-8 mnt, reflecting continued operational improvement. The WAIO outlook includes the planned renewal of Car Dumper 4 (CD4) during H1FY’27.
Note: BHP follows a July-June financial year, with FY’26 spanning July 2025 to June 2026.
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