Xstrata announced that in the h1, zinc in concentrates production remained at a similar level to the same period last year. Higher grades at our Australian operations helped to offset planned lower zinc production at Antamina where the mine plan continues to operate in a predominantly copper ore zone, as well as lower grades at our Canadian Brunswick and Perseverance mines in Canada as they approach the end of operations.

H1 zinc metal production at our smelters was consistent with the same period in 2011. Total lead in concentrate production increased by 8% during the H1 of 2012 mainly as a result of improved ore grades at our Australian operations.

Total lead metal production was 11% higher than the H1 of 2011 boosted by higher lead production at Mount Isa Mines and improvements to shipping schedules for lead bullion to our UK refinery.

Source - Xstrata

(www.steelguru.com)