BHP Billiton Reports 13 Percent Increase in Iron Ore Production in Fiscal 2015

BHP Billiton (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BLT) released its operational review for the 2015 financial year ended June 30, which showed a 14 percent increase in iron ore production.
As quoted in the press release:

Total iron ore production for the 2015 financial year increased by 14 per cent to a record 233 Mt, exceeding full-year guidance. Total iron ore production is forecast to increase by six per cent in the 2016 financial year to 247 Mt.
Western Australia Iron Ore (WAIO) production of 254 Mt (100 per cent basis) represents a fifteenth consecutive annual record and was underpinned by continued improvement in the performance of our integrated supply chain and the successful ramp-up of the Jimblebar mining hub. Continued optimisation of the port facilities and an increase in direct to ship ore resulted in record sales volumes of 256 Mt (100 per cent basis).
WAIO production for the 2016 financial year is forecast to increase to approximately 270 Mt (100 per cent basis) as a result of improved processing efficiency at Mining Area C and Newman. Further productivity improvements are expected to contribute to an increase in system capacity to 290 Mtpa over time.
On 21 July 2015, BHP Billiton announced it had approved US$240 million (BHP Billiton share) to purchase additional tugs and construct a new tug harbour at Port Hedland to improve the reliability of the port facilities.
Samarco production increased by 33 per cent in the 2015 financial year to 29 Mt (100 per cent basis) as the fourth pellet plant ramped up to full capacity during the March 2015 quarter.

Andrew Mackenzie, CEO of BHP Billiton, commented:

Better productivity will be the sole source of volume growth at Western Australia Iron Ore in the 2016 financial year with production forecast to increase by seven per cent and unit costs are expected to fall to US$16 per tonne(4).
We remain confident that our focus on best-in-class performance together with our unrivalled asset quality, optimal diversification and continued investment in high-return projects, will create long-term value through the cycle and deliver superior returns to our shareholders.

Click here to read the full BHP Billiton (ASX:BHP,NYSE:BHP,LSE:BLT) press release.