Rio Tinto PLC on Tuesday reported a fall in full-year production across all the commodities it produces, including iron ore, copper and aluminum.

Mined copper production from the open pit was 9 percent higher than 2020 with improved performance, temporary increase in grades, and increased mill feed following geotechnical issues in the first half, partly offset by lower staffing levels due to Covid-19. In the fourth quarter, stringent Chinese border restrictions continued due to increased cases of Covid-19 in Mongolia.

The company said that they will continue to work closely with the Mongolian and Chinese authorities and our customers to manage the risk of supply chain disruptions. Cross-border concentrate shipments into China have resumed with some measures in place to transport greater volumes in a safe and efficient manner, however uncertainty continues to exist with the rate of Covid-19 cases in Mongolia. The force majeure declared on shipments from 30 March remains in place.