Reuters reported that BHP Billiton seeks early negotiations with Chilean workers at its massive Escondida copper mine.

Mr La Tercera citing mining sources said that the company wants to avoid a stoppage similar to the 25 day strike in 2006 that hampered production and lifted world copper prices.

Escondida's collective contract is due to expire on December 5th 2009.

A steep recovery in world copper prices has emboldened mining workers demands for more benefits in contract negotiations. Copper prices have risen more than 90% so far this year.

(Sourced from Reuters)