Rio Tinto Aims to Start Arizona Copper Project by Mid-2030s, May Export Concentrate Due to US Smelting Challenges

Published: Mar 27, 2026 14:56

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Rio Tinto plans to begin operations at its Resolution Copper project in Arizona by the mid-2030s, but may export part of the concentrate due to challenging smelting economics in the US, a senior executive said. The company recently secured the necessary land after a long legal battle with the San Carlos Apache tribe. Resolution is expected to produce over 18 million tonnes of copper over its lifetime.
Separately, Rio Tinto’s Diavik diamond mine in Canada has closed after 23 years of operation, with closure activities continuing through 2029.

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