Rio Tinto investor seminar

30 October 2009

Rio Tinto is holding its annual investor seminar in London today at 2.00pm and in Sydney on Monday 2 November 2009 at 9.00am.

At the seminar Rio Tinto will reaffirm its strategy of investing in and operating large, long term, cost competitive mines and businesses driven not by choice of commodity but by the quality of the opportunity. It will contain the following updates:

Capital expenditure for 2009 will be approximately $5 billion, as previously indicated, and for 2010 at least $5 billion with the potential to rise to $6 billion. Capital expenditure guidance for 2010 includes $2.5 - $3.5 billion on growth projects. Previous guidance for 2010 indicated capital expenditure would be reduced towards sustaining levels, at around $2.5 billion.

Net debt at 30 September 2009, was $22.3 billion, a reduction of 42 per cent during the first nine months of the year.

Operating cost savings are on track for the targeted $2.5 billion reduction in 2010.
Planning work is continuing for iron ore expansion studies in the Pilbara, with an increase to 330mtpa from the previous plan of 320mtpa.
Progress is continuing in the transformation of the aluminium business, while preserving growth options.

Tom Albanese, chief executive, Rio Tinto said "Since the start of the year we have recapitalised the balance sheet and taken decisive action to reduce operating costs and respond to the sharp decline in global economic conditions. We have emerged from these challenges a stronger business. Coupled with early signs of economic recovery, we are now well-placed to look ahead to 2010 and beyond.

"We will continue our programme of cost reduction and debt repayments but our renewed strength enables us to focus on disciplined capital expenditure on premier growth options, which will position us well for the expected recovery in demand growth over the longer term. I also look forward to completing the Western Australian iron ore production joint venture with BHP Billiton and unlocking substantial synergies for shareholders."

Both the London and Sydney seminars will be webcast and can be accessed on www.riotinto.com. Replays will be available after the close of each seminar.

Presentations will be made by Tom Albanese, chief executive, Guy Elliott, chief financial officer, Sam Walsh, chief executive, Rio Tinto Iron Ore, and Jacynthe Côté, chief executive, Rio Tinto Alcan.

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