BHP Open to Both Organic Growth and Acquisitions for Copper Expansion

BHP, the world's largest mining company, remains flexible in its approach to copper growth, whether through expanding its existing operations or pursuing acquisitions. Speaking on Thursday, Geraldine Slattery, BHP's president of Australia, emphasized that the company is not strictly focused on either internal or external growth to increase its copper footprint.

"Growth is certainly a theme... we are certainly not fixated on internal or external growth," Slattery said in response to a question about BHP's interest in making a renewed bid for London-based Anglo American. BHP had previously walked away from a $49 billion takeover attempt after being rebuffed three times by Anglo American in May.

The miner's focus on growth comes amidst rising global demand for copper, driven by increased electrification and renewable energy projects. Despite setbacks in acquiring Anglo American, BHP remains committed to evaluating opportunities to expand its copper production, highlighting the company’s strategic flexibility in meeting growing market needs.