BHP Billiton Limited
(ASX:BHP) iron ore production has risen above expectations in its second quarter.
The global miner recorded 42.2 million tonnes in the three months to the end of December, a 3 per cent increase on the previous corresponding period.
The result has been met with a mixed response despite the increase, with many analysts tipping a result of 49 million tonnes.
BHP says the result is attributable to continued investment in its supply chain capacity and touted a strong outlook for its Western Australian iron ore business.
The company has maintained its full financial year iron ore production guidance of 183 million tonnes.
BHP Billiton posted a net profit of $15.2 billion in the 2012 financial year.
