Strategy

Rio Tinto aims to maximise the overall return to its shareholders by finding, mining and processing mineral resources - areas of expertise in which we have a clear competitive advantage. A fundamental part of this is to deliver value while operating in an ethically and socially responsible manner, and remaining committed to long term sustainable development.

How do we do this? We constantly seek new sources of competitive advantage and wherever possible, institutionalise them within our business in ways that cannot be easily replicated by competitors.

We concentrate on large scale mining operations that have a long life and are cost effective. Furthermore, we invest in these assets throughout their lives so that they maintain their competitive position. In pursuing greater economic value, all capital expenditure - on new projects and replacement expenditures alike - is subjected to rigorous analysis. We make investments only on their potential ability to create value - not the pursuit of a particular geographical or commodity mix, or market share.

At Rio Tinto, there is always a suite of quality projects under development or appraisal, and a portfolio of global exploration projects to ensure profitable development opportunities for the future.