BHP Billiton last night celebrated the shipment of its one billionth tonne of iron ore to China with customers, industrial associations, joint venture partners, suppliers and employees in Shanghai, the company said in its press release.
BHP Billiton’s Chief Executive Officer Andrew Mackenzie was joined by President Iron Ore Jimmy Wilson, President HSE, Marketing and Technology Mike Henry, President Coal Dean Dalla Valle and guests to reveal the commemorative plaque to mark the milestone.
Mr Mackenzie said BHP Billiton, a leading global resources company, was proud to contribute to the important trading relationship between China and Australia and to the country’s steel industry.
BHP Billiton’s iron ore journey with China started more than 40 years ago with the first shipment of iron ore from Port Hedland to China in 1973.
With China accounting for nearly 50 per cent of the world’s total steel production, Mr Wilson recognised the nation’s contribution to the development of the Pilbara in Western Australia.