Xstrata Zinc reported that its zinc in concentrate production increased by 21% in the Q1 of 2009 compared to the same period in 2008. Output increased due to the inclusion of the new Perseverance mine in Canada, which commenced production on 1 July 2008 and as a result of improved volumes at the majority of Xstrata Zinc’s operations.

Total zinc metal production was 7% lower due to reduced production at the Kidd smelter in Canada, where a refractory failure resulted in a three week shutdown of roaster number 2. Lead in concentrate production declined by 23% during the Q1 mainly due to prolonged rain and flooding throughout North Queensland which impacted throughput at the Mount Isa concentrator. Lead metal production was 7% higher than the comparable period in 2008, as higher volumes of lead bullion from Mount Isa were refined at the Northfleet operation in the UK.