UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

Form 6-K

 

 

REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER

PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-16 OR 15d-16

UNDER THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

January 21, 2009

 

 

 

BHP BILLITON LIMITED		BHP BILLITON PLC
(ABN 49 004 028 077)		(REG. NO. 3196209)
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)		(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

VICTORIA, AUSTRALIA		ENGLAND AND WALES
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organisation)		(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organisation)
180 LONSDALE STREET, MELBOURNE, VICTORIA		NEATHOUSE PLACE, VICTORIA, LONDON,
3000 AUSTRALIA		UNITED KINGDOM
(Address of principal executive offices)		(Address of principal executive offices)

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F:

[x]  Form 20-F    [  ]  Form 40-F

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):  [  ]

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):  [  ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934:    [  ]  Yes    [x]  No

If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b):   n/a 

 

 

 

---

NEWS RELEASE
Release Time		IMMEDIATE
Date		21 January 2009
Number		02/09

BHP BILLITON PRODUCTION REPORT FOR THE HALF YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2008

 

•

Record half year production of iron ore and copper cathode.

 

•

Record half year iron ore shipments.

 

•

Half year production records at Western Australia Iron Ore, Saraji, Poitrel and Hunter Valley Coal (all Australia), Samarco (Brazil) and Cerrejon Coal (Colombia).

 

•

Olympic Dam (Australia) achieved a half year record ore hoisted.

 

•

Record half year and quarterly gas production at North West Shelf (Australia) due to the start up of Train 5 and Angel projects.

BHP Billiton delivered a robust production performance in the first half of the 2009 financial year. This result was achieved within a challenging environment that resulted in prudent decisions being made regarding production adjustments as well as maintenance being brought forward.

Production adjustments announced by BHP Billiton to date have been limited to Samarco (Brazil) and the Samancor manganese operations. In Western Australia Iron Ore and our metallurgical coal operations, we have received requests for deferrals from some long term contract customers. However, this has not impacted iron ore or metallurgical coal production in the first half of the 2009 financial year. Whilst we sold the deferred long term iron ore tonnages into the spot market, we will likely have to opportunistically adjust our metallurgical coal production in line with the weaker demand, during the second half of the 2009 financial year.

In addition, BHP Billiton separately announced today that it will indefinitely suspend operations at Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation (Australia). Consequently, Yabulu (Australia) will also stop the processing of the mixed nickel cobalt hydroxide product.

The global economic environment deteriorated sharply in the last quarter of the 2008 calendar year and we expect the market to remain weak and uncertain. However, we do expect the longer term fundamentals to remain healthy for our commodities.

BHP Billiton CEO, Marius Kloppers, said the company’s performance and market position meant that it was strongly placed for both the current market conditions and the longer term market recovery.

“Given the very challenging environment the whole industry has faced over the past few months, our production performance was particularly strong. We have also been quick to take appropriate action to respond to market conditions, such as the previously announced production adjustments and project withdrawals, and we will continue to do so if required.

“Our strong balance sheet and uniquely diversified portfolio of high quality and low cost assets place us in a competitive position in these market conditions and we expect to take full advantage of the recovery when it occurs. We continue to invest in growth, but with a highly disciplined and value-focused approach. We also remain alert to potential value accretive acquisition opportunities that may arise in the current market,” he said.

---

Highlighting our commitment to long term growth, we sanctioned one iron ore and three oil and gas projects during the half year, being Western Australia Iron Ore Rapid Growth Project 5 (RGP5), Bass Strait Turrum (Australia), Angostura Gas Phase II (Trinidad) and North West Shelf Cossack, Wanaea, Lambert, Hermes (CWLH) Life Extension projects.

 

PETROLEUM		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Crude Oil, Condensate and Natural Gas Liquids (‘000 bbl)		37,039		18,119		26	%		21	%		-4	%
Natural Gas (bcf)		185.50		90.23		-1	%		-1	%		-5	%
Total Petroleum Products (million boe)		67.96		33.16		12	%		10	%		-5	%

Total Petroleum Production – Production was higher than the December 2007 half year and quarter mainly driven by the successful delivery of a series of growth projects and continued strong gas sales in Western Australia and Pakistan. This strong growth was achieved despite the continuing impact of two hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico (USA).

Crude Oil, Condensate, and Natural Gas Liquids – In comparison to the December 2007 half year and quarter, production improved significantly due to the contribution from growth projects. Successful development and infill drilling programs have also helped to offset natural field decline in existing fields.

Production was slightly lower than the September 2008 quarter mainly due to the expected seasonal reduction in demand at Bass Strait (Australia) and hurricane related disruptions at Genghis Khan (USA).

The March 2009 quarter will be impacted by the Bass Strait ethane pipe rupture late in the December 2008 quarter as well as flat production from Atlantis (USA) due to the need to install water injection for reservoir support.

Natural Gas – Production was 5 per cent lower than the September 2008 quarter due to the expected seasonal demand reduction in Eastern Australia. This was partially offset by the ramp up of North West Shelf Train 5 and first production from North West Shelf Angel.

 

ALUMINIUM		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Alumina (‘000 tonnes)		2,237		1,139		-3	%		-2	%		4	%
Aluminium (‘000 tonnes)		619		310		-8	%		-8	%		0	%

Alumina – Production improved following the scheduled maintenance at Alumar (Brazil) and Worsley (Australia) during the September 2008 quarter.

Aluminium – The Southern African smelters continued to operate at reduced levels to comply with the mandatory reduction in power consumption. The December 2008 half year included the complete shutdown of the B and C potlines at Bayside (South Africa).

 

- 2 -

---

BASE METALS		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Copper (‘000 tonnes)		617.1		308.2		-6	%		-11	%		0	%
Lead (tonnes)		122,215		63,963		-7	%		-9	%		10	%
Zinc (tonnes)		79,631		37,870		22	%		36	%		-9	%
Silver (‘000 ounces)		21,815		11,515		-5	%		-3	%		12	%
Uranium Oxide Concentrate (Uranium) (tonnes)		1,970		860		-7	%		-28	%		-23	%

Copper – Production was lower than the half year and quarter ended December 2007 due to declining ore grade and electrical motor reliability issues at the Laguna Seca SAG mill at Escondida (Chile).

This was partially offset by the continued ramp up of Spence and Escondida Sulphide Leach (both Chile) and improved performance at Olympic Dam.

At 31 December 2008 the Group had 242,640 tonnes of outstanding copper sales that were revalued at a weighted average price of US$3,063 per tonne. The final price of these sales will be determined in 2009. In addition, 327,941 tonnes of copper sales were subject to a finalisation adjustment from the prior period. The finalisation adjustment and provisional pricing impact as at 31 December 2008 will decrease earnings^(a) by US$1,297 million for the period.

Since 2005, Escondida has executed forward contracts for the physical delivery of copper in order to achieve the average market prices over the relevant quotational periods. Due to the significant fluctuations to copper prices and unplanned interruptions at Escondida, this will decrease earnings^(a) by US$333 million for the period.

In the December 2007 quarter, we opportunistically restarted copper sulphide mining at Pinto Valley (USA) to take advantage of the market conditions at the time. This is a short life and high cost operation, and as such is uneconomic in the current environment. During February 2009 we will place the sulphide mining operation on care and maintenance.

Lead – Production was lower than the half year and quarter ended December 2007 due to lower head grade at Cannington (Australia).

Production was higher than the September 2008 quarter due to increased mill throughput and higher head grade at Cannington.

Zinc – Production was lower than the September 2008 quarter mainly due to a reduction in head grade as a result of pit development sequencing at Antamina (Peru). The December 2008 half year and quarter were higher than the comparative December 2007 periods due to the processing of a higher proportion of ores containing zinc and higher zinc head grades at Antamina.

Silver – Production decreased slightly in comparison to the December 2007 half year and quarter mainly due to declining head grades at Cannington and Escondida. Production increased compared to the September 2008 quarter mainly due to improved head grade and mill throughput at Cannington.

Uranium – Production decreased versus all comparative quarters mainly due to lower mill throughput and lower head grade at Olympic Dam.

 

DIAMONDS & SPECIALTY PRODUCTS		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Diamonds (‘000 carats)		1,367		594		-27	%		-30	%		-23	%

 

- 3 -

---

Diamonds – Production decreased due to lower grades following changed ore sources. As Ekati (Canada) transitions from open pit mining to underground mining the mix of ore processed will change from time to time.

 

STAINLESS STEEL MATERIALS		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Nickel (‘000 tonnes)		77.0		50.2		-6	%		15	%		87	%

Nickel – Production for the December 2008 half year was lower primarily due to the Kalgoorlie Nickel Smelter (Australia) furnace rebuild and maintenance at the Kwinana Nickel Refinery (Australia) in the September 2008 quarter. Following earlier than expected completion of the furnace rebuild, both the smelter and refinery have fully ramped up and were operating at capacity in the December 2008 quarter. The start up of operations at Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation and the Yabulu Extension Project adversely impacted earnings^(a) by US$233 million for the half year ended 31 December 2008. This is in addition to the impairment charges for Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation and Yabulu.

In addition, BHP Billiton separately announced today that it will indefinitely suspend operations at Ravensthorpe Nickel Operation. Consequently, Yabulu will stop the processing of the mixed nickel cobalt hydroxide product.

 

IRON ORE		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Iron ore (‘000 tonnes) (a)		59,179		29,355		10	%		5	%		-2	%

Iron Ore – Production for the half year and quarter ended December 2008 benefited from the successful ramp up of growth projects at Western Australia Iron Ore and Samarco. This was in part offset by the impact of the temporary suspension of operations following safety incidents and production interruptions at Western Australia Iron Ore.

Western Australia Iron Ore is expected to produce 130 million tonnes (100 per cent basis) in the 2009 financial year.

At the end of November 2008, in response to weak demand Samarco announced the temporary suspension of two of its three pellet plants to mid-January 2009. Following a subsequent reassessment of the market conditions, the suspension will continue until the end of March 2009, at which time Samarco management will reassess the situation.

Western Australia Iron Ore has deferred some sales to long term contract customers. However, these deferred tonnes have been sold on the spot market.

 

MANGANESE		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC 07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Manganese Ore (‘000 tonnes)		3,242		1,412		6	%		-12	%		-23	%
Manganese Alloy (‘000 tonnes)		384		181		-2	%		-13	%		-11	%

Manganese Ore – Production was higher than the December 2007 half year due to improved mine performance at Hotazel (South Africa) and increased availability of rail and port capacity in South Africa. Production decreased versus the December 2007 and September 2008 quarters in line with previously announced production cuts. Resources at GEMCO (Australia) were utilised for development and re-building product inventories.

Manganese Alloy – Production was lower than the December 2007 half year and the September 2008 quarter as production cuts were implemented in response to weak demand.

 

- 4 -

---

METALLURGICAL COAL		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Metallurgical Coal (‘000 tonnes)		19,360		10,150		1	%		5	%		10	%

Metallurgical Coal – Production increased versus all comparative periods due to the full recovery from the flood events in Queensland and planned longwall change out at Illawarra Coal’s Appin mine (Australia).

Shipments for the December 2008 quarter were impacted by weaker demand. Queensland Coal has deferred some sales to long term contract customers. Demand for metallurgical coal is expected to be weaker for the second half of the 2009 financial year. As a result, sales for the full year will be slightly lower than in the 2008 financial year. It is likely that BHP Billiton will opportunistically adjust production at its metallurgical coal operations during the second half of the 2009 financial year. This will include re-building depleted above-ground and in-pit inventories, bringing forward necessary maintenance and adjusting the use of workforce at the operations. Production for the second half of the 2009 financial year is expected to be approximately 10 to 15 per cent below current capacity on an annualised basis.

 

ENERGY COAL		DEC 2008 HALF		DEC 2008 QTR		DEC H08 vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
Energy Coal (‘000 tonnes) (c)		35,272		16,476		2	%		-6	%		-12	%

Energy Coal – Production was lower for the December 2008 quarter due to scheduled outages at Navajo and poor geological conditions at San Juan (both USA). In addition, Douglas Underground (South Africa) production was lower as it ramped down to closure and Cerrejon was impacted by wet weather.

Hunter Valley Coal and Cerrejon Coal achieved half yearly production records.

 

(a)	Earnings before interest and tax.

(b)	Including Goldsworthy operations classified as continuing operations as at 1 July 2008. Reclassification is consistent with the long term mine production strategy.

(c)	Excluding Optimum operation which was sold effective 1 July 2007.

 

- 5 -

---

Further information on BHP Billiton can be found on our website: www.bhpbilliton.com

 

Australia		United Kingdom & South Africa
Samantha Evans, Media Relations		Andre Liebenberg, Investor Relations
Tel: +61 3 9609 2898    Mobile: +61 400 693 915		Tel: +44 20 7802 4131    Mobile: +44 7920 236 974
email: Samantha.Evans@bhpbilliton.com		email: Andre.Liebenberg@bhpbilliton.com
Peter Ogden, Media Relations		Illtud Harri, Media Relations
Tel: +61 3 9609 2812    Mobile: +61 428 599 190		Tel: +44 20 7802 4195    Mobile: +44 7920 237 246
email: Peter.Ogden@bhpbilliton.com		email: Illtud.Harri@bhpbilliton.com
Kelly Quirke, Media Relations		United States
Tel: +61 3 9609 2896    Mobile: +61 429 966 312		Scott Espenshade, Investor Relations
email: Kelly.Quirke@bhpbilliton.com		Tel: +1 713 599 6431    Mobile: +1 713 208 8565
		email: Scott.Espenshade@bhpbilliton.com
Leng Lau, Investor Relations		Ruban Yogarajah, Media Relations
Tel: +61 3 9609 4202    Mobile: +61 403 533 706		Tel: US +1 713 966 2907 or UK +44 20 7802 4033
email: Leng.Y.Lau@bhpbilliton.com		Mobile: UK +44 7827 082 022
		email: Ruban.Yogarajah@bhpbilliton.com
BHP Billiton Limited ABN 49 004 028 077		BHP Billiton Plc Registration number 3196209
Registered in Australia		Registered in England and Wales
Registered Office: 180 Lonsdale Street		Registered Office: Neathouse Place
Melbourne Victoria 3000 Australia		London SW1V 1BH United Kingdom
Tel +61 1300 55 4757    Fax +61 3 9609 3015		Tel +44 20 7802 4000    Fax +44 20 7802 4111

A member of the BHP Billiton group which is headquartered in Australia

 

- 6 -

---

BHP BILLITON PRODUCTION SUMMARY - CONTINUING OPERATIONS

 

				QUARTER ENDED						HALF YEAR ENDED				% CHANGE
				DEC 2007		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007		DEC H08 Vs DEC H07			DEC Q08 vs DEC Q07			DEC Q08 vs SEPT Q08
PETROLEUM
Crude oil & condensate		(‘000 bbl)		12,317		16,180		16,012		32,192		23,616		36	%		30	%		-1	%
Natural gas		(bcf)		91.21		95.27		90.23		185.50		186.89		-1	%		-1	%		-5	%
Natural gas liquid		(‘000 bbl)		2,685		2,740		2,107		4,847		5,780		-16	%		-22	%		-23	%
Total Petroleum Products		(million boe)		30.20		34.80		33.16		67.96		60.54		12	%		10	%		-5	%
ALUMINIUM
Alumina		(‘000 tonnes)		1,157		1,098		1,139		2,237		2,310		-3	%		-2	%		4	%
Aluminium		(‘000 tonnes)		338		309		310		619		675		-8	%		-8	%		0	%
BASE METALS
Copper		(‘000 tonnes)		348.1		308.9		308.2		617.1		655.9		-6	%		-11	%		0	%
Lead		(tonnes)		70,544		58,252		63,963		122,215		132,065		-7	%		-9	%		10	%
Zinc		(tonnes)		27,807		41,761		37,870		79,631		65,066		22	%		36	%		-9	%
Gold		(ounces)		45,714		41,751		45,790		87,541		86,027		2	%		0	%		10	%
Silver		(‘000 ounces)		11,905		10,300		11,515		21,815		23,029		-5	%		-3	%		12	%
Uranium oxide concentrate		(tonnes)		1,191		1,110		860		1,970		2,124		-7	%		-28	%		-23	%
Molybdenum		(tonnes)		679		608		411		1,018		1,372		-26	%		-40	%		-32	%
DIAMONDS AND SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
Diamonds		(‘000 carats)		843		773		594		1,367		1,865		-27	%		-30	%		-23	%
STAINLESS STEEL MATERIALS
Nickel		(‘000 tonnes)		43.7		26.8		50.2		77.0		82.3		-6	%		15	%		87	%
IRON ORE
Iron ore (a)		(‘000 tonnes)		27,916		29,824		29,355		59,179		53,917		10	%		5	%		-2	%
MANGANESE
Manganese ore		(‘000 tonnes)		1,613		1,830		1,412		3,242		3,058		6	%		-12	%		-23	%
Manganese alloy		(‘000 tonnes)		209		203		181		384		393		-2	%		-13	%		-11	%
METALLURGICAL COAL
Metallurgical coal		(‘000 tonnes)		9,643		9,210		10,150		19,360		19,215		1	%		5	%		10	%
ENERGY COAL
Energy coal (b)		(‘000 tonnes)		17,525		18,796		16,476		35,272		34,459		2	%		-6	%		-12	%

 

(a)	Including Goldsworthy operations classified as continuing operations as at 1 July 2008. Reclassification is consistent with the long term mine production strategy.

(b)	Excluding Optimum which was disposed effective 1 July 2007.

Throughout this report figures in italics indicate that this figure has been adjusted since it was previously reported.

 

- 7 -

---

BHP BILLITON ATTRIBUTABLE PRODUCTION

 

		BHP Billiton Interest			QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
					DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
PETROLEUM
Production
Crude oil & condensate		(‘000 bbl)			12,317		16,240		17,588		16,180		16,012		32,192		23,616
Natural gas		(bcf)			91.21		85.76		95.37		95.27		90.23		185.50		186.89
NGL (a)		(‘000 bbl)			2,685		2,201		2,743		2,740		2,107		4,847		5,780
Total Petroleum Products		(million boe)			30.20		32.73		36.23		34.80		33.16		67.96		60.54
ALUMINIUM
ALUMINA
Production (‘000 tonnes)
Worsley		86	%		771		712		768		733		756		1,489		1,555
Suriname		45	%		252		247		240		241		242		483		496
Alumar		36	%		134		136		141		124		141		265		259
Total					1,157		1,095		1,149		1,098		1,139		2,237		2,310
ALUMINIUM
Production (‘000 tonnes)
Hillside		100	%		180		167		170		175		176		351		358
Bayside		100	%		47		44		29		25		25		50		95
Alumar		40	%		44		45		45		45		44		89		88
Mozal		47	%		67		62		61		64		65		129		134
Total					338		318		305		309		310		619		675
BASE METALS (b)
COPPER
Payable metal in concentrate (‘000 tonnes)
Escondida		57.5	%		177.3		157.0		178.2		116.8		102.7		219.5		344.3
Antamina		33.8	%		29.3		24.1		30.8		28.4		28.6		57.0		56.8
Pinto Valley (d)		100	%		5.2		9.6		12.0		14.2		14.7		28.9		5.2
Total					211.8		190.7		221.0		159.4		146.0		305.4		406.3
Cathode (‘000 tonnes)
Escondida		57.5	%		30.3		30.1		40.3		35.6		42.1		77.7		61.2
Cerro Colorado		100	%		27.3		28.7		27.3		21.8		26.3		48.1		50.4
Spence (c)		100	%		34.2		41.6		43.0		35.7		44.5		80.2		58.1
Pinto Valley (d)		100	%		1.7		1.8		1.6		1.6		1.7		3.3		3.5
Olympic Dam		100	%		42.8		36.0		57.5		54.8		47.6		102.4		76.4
Total					136.3		138.2		169.7		149.5		162.2		311.7		249.6
LEAD
Payable metal in concentrate (tonnes)
Cannington		100	%		70,369		67,505		52,601		57,768		63,563		121,331		131,442
Antamina		33.8	%		175		380		575		484		400		884		623
Total					70,544		67,885		53,176		58,252		63,963		122,215		132,065
ZINC
Payable metal in concentrate (tonnes)
Cannington		100	%		15,487		13,735		17,244		14,449		14,199		28,648		29,990
Antamina		33.8	%		12,320		22,235		26,210		27,312		23,671		50,983		35,076
Total					27,807		35,970		43,454		41,761		37,870		79,631		65,066

Refer footnotes on page 4.

 

- 8 -

---

BHP BILLITON ATTRIBUTABLE PRODUCTION

 

					QUARTER ENDED								HALF YEAR ENDED
		BHP Billiton Interest			DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
BASE METALS (continued)
GOLD
Payable metal in concentrate (ounces)
Escondida		57.5	%		21,376		17,660		17,501		14,391		17,840		32,231		44,570
Olympic Dam (refined gold)		100	%		24,338		18,555		20,505		27,360		27,950		55,310		41,457
Pinto Valley (d)		100	%		—		1,300		—		—		—		—		—
Total					45,714		37,515		38,006		41,751		45,790		87,541		86,027
SILVER
Payable metal in concentrate (‘000 ounces)
Escondida		57.5	%		877		790		821		668		738		1,406		1,993
Antamina		33.8	%		652		803		994		932		915		1,847		1,708
Cannington		100	%		10,124		9,421		7,181		8,391		9,565		17,956		18,883
Olympic Dam (refined silver)		100	%		239		169		179		244		234		478		432
Pinto Valley (d)		100	%		13		38		62		65		63		129		13
Total					11,905		11,221		9,236		10,300		11,515		21,815		23,029
URANIUM OXIDE CONCENTRATE
Payable metal in concentrate (tonnes)
Olympic Dam		100	%		1,191		993		1,027		1,110		860		1,970		2,124
Total					1,191		993		1,027		1,110		860		1,970		2,124
MOLYBDENUM
Payable metal in concentrate (tonnes)
Antamina		33.8	%		679		580		590		514		365		879		1,372
Pinto Valley (d)		100	%		—		—		—		94		46		139		—
Total					679		580		590		608		411		1,018		1,372
DIAMONDS AND SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
DIAMONDS
Production (‘000 carats)
Ekati™		80	%		843		620		864		773		594		1,367		1,865
STAINLESS STEEL MATERIALS
NICKEL
Production (‘000 tonnes)
CMSA		99.9	%		11.4		7.8		10.1		10.7		13.0		23.7		23.9
Yabulu		100	%		6.0		6.2		10.3		9.1		9.5		18.6		11.5
Nickel West		100	%		26.3		29.0		22.1		7.0		27.7		34.7		46.9
Total					43.7		43.0		42.6		26.8		50.2		77.0		82.3
Refer footnotes on page 4.
IRON ORE
Production (‘000 tonnes) (e)
Mt Newman Joint Venture		85	%		8,147		7,265		7,013		7,210		7,006		14,216		16,051
Goldsworthy Joint Venture		85	%		170		386		251		232		346		578		304
Area C Joint Venture		85	%		6,474		7,114		8,626		9,209		8,716		17,925		11,390
Yandi Joint Venture		85	%		9,770		10,061		10,622		8,961		10,026		18,987		19,593
Jimblebar		85	%		1,248		1,660		1,054		1,461		1,040		2,501		2,405
Samarco		50	%		2,107		1,933		2,357		2,751		2,221		4,972		4,174
Total					27,916		28,419		29,924		29,824		29,355		59,179		53,917
MANGANESE
MANGANESE ORES
Saleable production (‘000 tonnes)
South Africa (f)		60	%		709		877		882		929		755		1,684		1,281
Australia (f)		60	%		904		789		969		901		657		1,558		1,777
Total					1,613		1,666		1,851		1,830		1,412		3,242		3,058

 

- 9 -

---

BHP BILLITON ATTRIBUTABLE PRODUCTION

 

					QUARTER ENDED								HALF YEAR ENDED
		BHP Billiton Interest			DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
MANGANESE ALLOYS
Saleable production (‘000 tonnes)
South Africa (f) (g)		60	%		141		125		124		133		112		245		264
Australia (f)		60	%		68		67		66		70		69		139		129
Total					209		192		190		203		181		384		393
METALLURGICAL COAL
Production (‘000 tonnes) (h)
BMA		50	%		6,138		4,232		6,508		6,384		6,781		13,165		12,055
BHP Mitsui Coal (i)		80	%		1,526		847		1,306		1,633		1,771		3,404		2,980
Illawarra		100	%		1,979		1,767		1,318		1,193		1,598		2,791		4,180
Total					9,643		6,846		9,132		9,210		10,150		19,360		19,215
ENERGY COAL
Production (‘000 tonnes)
South Africa		100	%		11,277		11,129		10,960		9,009		8,031		17,040		22,983
USA		100	%		3,671		2,636		4,834		4,005		3,017		7,022		6,182
Australia		100	%		2,959		2,965		2,934		2,975		2,993		5,968		5,877
Colombia		33	%		2,702		2,553		2,625		2,807		2,435		5,242		5,190
Total					20,609		19,283		21,353		18,796		16,476		35,272		40,232

 

(a)	LPG and Ethane are reported as Natural Gas Liquid (NGL). Product-specific conversions are made and NGL is reported in barrels of oil equivalent (boe).

(b)	Metal production is reported on the basis of payable metal.

(c)	Spence operations were commissioned during the December 2006 quarter.

(d)	The Pinto Valley operations were restarted during the December 2007 quarter. During February 2009 the operations will be placed on care and maintenance.

(e)	Iron ore production is reported on a wet tonnes basis.

(f)	Shown on 100% basis. BHP Billiton interest in saleable production is 60%.

(g)	Production includes Medium Carbon Ferro Manganese.

(h)	Metallurgical coal production is reported on the basis of saleable product. Production figures include some thermal coal.

(i)	Shown on 100% basis. BHP Billiton interest in saleable production is 80%.

 

- 10 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

		QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
		DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
PETROLEUM
BHP Billiton attributable production unless otherwise stated.
CRUDE OIL & CONDENSATE (‘000 barrels)
Bass Strait		3,103		2,918		3,184		3,412		3,230		6,642		6,741
North West Shelf (a)		2,493		1,912		2,153		2,115		2,434		4,549		5,025
Stybarrow (b)		1,017		2,979		3,527		3,376		2,720		6,096		1,017
Other Australia (c)		260		157		263		206		185		391		510
Atlantis (d)		615		3,320		3,471		2,232		2,319		4,551		615
Shenzi (d)		32		194		322		186		—		186		32
Trinidad /Tobago		1,103		946		879		705		568		1,273		2,110
Other Americas (e)		961		1,160		1,309		1,561		2,025		3,586		2,013
UK		946		935		836		680		777		1,457		1,869
Algeria		1,709		1,628		1,555		1,624		1,664		3,288		3,539
Pakistan		78		91		88		83		90		173		145
Total		12,317		16,240		17,588		16,180		16,012		32,192		23,616
NATURAL GAS (billion cubic feet) (d)
Bass Strait		28.41		22.44		33.31		37.08		25.12		62.20		68.18
North West Shelf (a)		28.13		26.43		26.76		27.01		31.79		58.80		55.30
Other Australia (c)		8.21		7.45		6.64		7.33		6.35		13.68		16.17
Atlantis (d)		0.12		1.54		2.07		1.25		1.16		2.41		0.12
Shenzi (d)		0.01		0.06		0.07		0.04		—		0.04		0.01
Other Americas (e)		2.05		1.95		2.05		1.74		1.68		3.42		4.05
UK		12.70		12.32		11.32		7.51		9.70		17.21		21.57
Pakistan		11.58		13.57		13.14		13.31		14.43		27.74		21.49
Total		91.21		85.76		95.37		95.27		90.23		185.50		186.89
NGL (‘000 barrels)
Bass Strait		1,801		1,571		2,056		2,149		1,352		3,501		4,128
North West Shelf (a)		417		300		343		364		402		766		855
UK		153		109		116		41		89		130		201
Algeria		314		221		228		186		264		450		596
Total		2,685		2,201		2,743		2,740		2,107		4,847		5,780
TOTAL PETROLEUM PRODUCTS		30.20		32.73		36.23		34.80		33.16		67.96		60.54
(million barrels of oil equivalent) (f)

 

(a)	North West Shelf LNG Train 5 was commissioned during the September 2008 quarter.

(b)	The Stybarrow operation was commissioned during the December 2007 quarter.

(c)	Other Australia includes Griffin and Minerva.

(d)	The Atlantis and Genghis Khan operations were commissioned during the December 2007 quarter. Genghis Khan is reported in Shenzi.

(e)	Other Americas includes Neptune, Mad Dog, West Cameron 76, Mustang, Genesis and Starlifter. The Neptune operation was commissioned during the September 2008 quarter.

(f)	Total barrels of oil equivalent (boe) conversions are based on 6000scf of natural gas equals 1 boe.

 

- 11 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

		QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
		DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
ALUMINIUM
BHP Billiton attributable production and sales unless otherwise stated.
(‘000 tonnes)
ALUMINA
Production
Worsley, Australia		771		712		768		733		756		1,489		1,555
Paranam, Suriname		252		247		240		241		242		483		496
Alumar, Brazil		134		136		141		124		141		265		259
Total		1,157		1,095		1,149		1,098		1,139		2,237		2,310
Sales
Worsley, Australia		803		683		703		781		763		1,544		1,595
Paranam, Suriname		265		246		261		216		252		468		509
Alumar, Brazil		128		135		137		128		140		268		259
Total (a)		1,196		1,064		1,101		1,125		1,155		2,280		2,363
ALUMINIUM
Production
Hillside, South Africa		180		167		170		175		176		351		358
Bayside, South Africa		47		44		29		25		25		50		95
Alumar, Brazil		44		45		45		45		44		89		88
Mozal, Mozambique		67		62		61		64		65		129		134
Total		338		318		305		309		310		619		675
Sales
Hillside, South Africa		180		159		183		160		185		345		345
Bayside, South Africa		50		48		29		24		24		48		100
Alumar, Brazil		48		43		47		37		50		87		91
Mozal, Mozambique		72		57		73		36		105		141		128
Total		350		307		332		257		364		621		664
Tolling Agreement (a)		33		30		34		31		27		58		66
		383		337		366		288		391		679		730

 

(a)	Equity Alumina is converted into Aluminium under a third party tolling agreement. These tonnages are allocated to equity sales.

 

- 12 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

				QUARTER ENDED															HALF YEAR ENDED
				DEC 2007			MAR 2008			JUNE 2008			SEPT 2008			DEC 2008			DEC 2008			DEC 2007
BASE METALS
BHP Billiton attributable production and sales unless otherwise stated. Metals production is payable metal unless otherwise stated.
Escondida, Chile
Material mined (100%)		(‘000 tonnes)		88,319			102,566			103,253			99,375			100,544			199,919			171,314
Sulphide ore milled (100%)		(‘000 tonnes)		21,777			22,029			24,491			20,416			22,516			42,932			44,183
Average copper grade		(%)		1.72	%		1.56	%		1.55	%		1.32	%		1.04	%		1.17	%		1.67	%
Production ex Mill (100%)		(‘000 tonnes)		316.8			285.0			312.7			208.6			186.3			394.9			622.0
Production
Payable copper		(‘000 tonnes)		177.3			157.0			178.2			116.8			102.7			219.5			344.3
Payable gold concentrate		(fine ounces)		21,376			17,660			17,501			14,391			17,840			32,231			44,570
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		30.3			30.1			40.3			35.6			42.1			77.7			61.2
Payable silver concentrate		(‘000 ounces)		877			790			821			668			738			1,406			1,993
Sales
Payable copper		(‘000 tonnes)		173.0			160.6			178.4			118.2			93.8			212.0			335.9
Payable gold concentrate		(fine ounces)		21,158			18,190			17,477			14,521			16,377			30,898			44,115
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		23.8			32.3			41.6			31.2			41.8			73.0			55.5
Payable silver concentrate		(‘000 ounces)		864			813			820			666			678			1,344			1,953
Cerro Colorado, Chile
Material mined		(‘000 tonnes)		17,798			16,769			17,107			16,526			18,598			35,124			34,893
Ore milled		(‘000 tonnes)		4,410			4,437			4,599			4,594			4,379			8,973			8,688
Average copper grade		(%)		1.03	%		0.80	%		0.85	%		0.86	%		0.86	%		0.86	%		0.94	%
Production
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		27.3			28.7			27.3			21.8			26.3			48.1			50.4
Sales
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		24.5			28.5			29.8			23.7			26.2			49.9			48.0
Spence, Chile (a)
Material mined		(‘000 tonnes)		19,758			20,335			20,065			18,738			20,562			39,300			36,741
Ore milled		(‘000 tonnes)		4,333			3,918			4,255			4,490			4,154			8,644			8,465
Average copper grade		(%)		1.61	%		1.48	%		1.85	%		2.18	%		1.66	%		1.93	%		1.59	%
Production
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		34.2			41.6			43.0			35.7			44.5			80.2			58.1
Sales
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		24.0			39.9			51.3			34.6			43.3			77.9			53.5
(a)    Spence operations were commissioned during the December 2006 quarter.
Antamina, Peru
Material mined (100%)		(‘000 tonnes)		31,289			29,095			29,336			30,026			28,111			58,137			62,434
Sulphide ore milled (100%)		(‘000 tonnes)		6,955			6,518			7,729			8,133			8,058			16,191			15,299
Average head grades
- Copper		(%)		1.47	%		1.21	%		1.38	%		1.15	%		1.25	%		1.20	%		1.30	%
- Zinc		(%)		0.69	%		1.55	%		1.46	%		1.54	%		1.33	%		1.43	%		0.95	%

 

- 13 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

				QUARTER ENDED															HALF YEAR ENDED
				DEC 2007			MAR 2008			JUNE 2008			SEPT 2008			DEC 2008			DEC 2008			DEC 2007
Production
Payable copper		(‘000 tonnes)		29.3			24.1			30.8			28.4			28.6			57.0			56.8
Payable zinc		(tonnes)		12,320			22,235			26,210			27,312			23,671			50,983			35,076
Payable silver		(‘000 ounces)		652			803			994			932			915			1,847			1,708
Payable lead		(tonnes)		175			380			575			484			400			884			623
Payable molybdenum		(tonnes)		679			580			590			514			365			879			1,372
Sales
Payable copper		(‘000 tonnes)		32.6			20.4			33.5			26.7			29.4			56.1			61.1
Payable zinc		(tonnes)		12,458			16,630			29,385			26,402			27,024			53,426			37,764
Payable silver		(‘000 ounces)		719			512			940			719			844			1,563			1,636
Payable lead		(tonnes)		140			261			461			387			518			905			474
Payable molybdenum		(tonnes)		605			531			837			482			398			880			1,267
Cannington, Australia
Material mined		(‘000 tonnes)		808			698			821			724			863			1,587			1,632
Ore milled		(‘000 tonnes)		755			726			658			824			817			1,641			1,416
Average head grades
- Silver		(g/t)		489			472			397			384			438			411			484
- Lead		(%)		10.7	%		10.7	%		9.2	%		8.3	%		9.5	%		8.9	%		10.5	%
- Zinc		(%)		3.3	%		3.2	%		3.8	%		3.0	%		3.1	%		3.0	%		3.4	%
Production
Payable silver		(‘000 ounces)		10,124			9,421			7,181			8,391			9,565			17,956			18,883
Payable lead		(tonnes)		70,369			67,505			52,601			57,768			63,563			121,331			131,442
Payable zinc		(tonnes)		15,487			13,735			17,244			14,449			14,199			28,648			29,990
Sales
Payable silver		(‘000 ounces)		11,266			7,727			8,918			9,507			9,958			19,465			17,991
Payable lead		(tonnes)		78,325			53,167			62,997			64,980			67,467			132,447			124,473
Payable zinc		(tonnes)		19,577			9,629			17,710			16,949			10,990			27,939			28,834
Olympic Dam, Australia
Material mined (a)		(‘000 tonnes)		2,520			2,333			2,397			2,628			2,419			5,047			4,944
Ore milled		(‘000 tonnes)		2,552			2,225			2,570			2,518			2,456			4,974			4,791
Average copper grade		(%)		1.86	%		1.86	%		2.06	%		2.08	%		1.80	%		1.94	%		1.85	%
Average uranium grade		kg/t		0.63			0.59			0.58			0.56			0.50			0.53			0.60
Production
Copper cathode (ER)		(‘000 tonnes)		40.2			32.9			53.2			51.9			44.6			96.5			70.8
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		2.6			3.1			4.4			2.9			3.0			5.9			5.6
Uranium oxide concentrate		(tonnes)		1,191			993			1,027			1,110			860			1,970			2,124
Refined gold		(fine ounces)		24,338			18,555			20,505			27,360			27,950			55,310			41,457
Refined silver		(‘000 ounces)		239			169			179			244			234			478			432

 

- 14 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

				QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
				DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
Sales
Copper cathode (ER)		(‘000 tonnes)		41.0		31.9		52.0		49.5		48.3		97.8		71.7
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		2.5		2.3		4.3		3.3		2.8		6.1		5.6
Uranium oxide concentrate		(tonnes)		346		1,182		1,610		868		1,262		2,130		908
Refined gold		(fine ounces)		21,760		19,767		19,556		26,121		26,383		52,504		41,878
Refined silver		(‘000 ounces)		237		173		185		232		250		482		429
(a) Material mined refers to run of mine ore mined and hoisted.
Pinto Valley, USA
Production
Copper concentrate (a)		(‘000 tonnes)		5.2		9.6		12.0		14.2		14.7		28.9		5.2
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		1.7		1.8		1.6		1.6		1.7		3.3		3.5
Payable silver (a)		(‘000 ounces)		13.3		38.4		61.7		65.2		63.3		128.5		13.3
Payable gold (a)		(‘000 ounces)		—		1.3		—		—		—		—		—
Payable molybdenum		(tonnes)								93.7		45.6		139.3		—
Sales
Copper concentrate		(‘000 tonnes)		2.6		7.9		12.4		14.0		13.0		27.0		2.6
Copper cathode (EW)		(‘000 tonnes)		0.9		4.0		1.4		1.6		1.4		3.0		1.8
Payable silver		(‘000 ounces)		13.3		38.4		61.7		65.2		63.3		128.5		13.3
Payable gold		(‘000 ounces)		—		1.3		—		—		—		—		—
Payable molybdenum		(tonnes)								15.0		44.0		59.0		—
(a)    Production restarted during the December 2007 quarter. During February 2009 the operations will be placed on care and maintenance.
PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT
				QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
				DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
DIAMONDS AND SPECIALTY PRODUCTS
BHP Billiton attributable production and sales unless otherwise stated.
DIAMONDS
Ekati™, Canada
Ore Processed (100%)		(‘000 tonnes)		1,080		967		1,356		1,192		910		2,102		2,089
Production		(‘000 carats)		843		620		864		773		594		1,367		1,865

 

- 15 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

		QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
		DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
STAINLESS STEEL MATERIALS
BHP Billiton attributable production and sales unless otherwise stated.
(‘000 tonnes)
NICKEL
CMSA, Colombia
Production		11.4		7.8		10.1		10.7		13.0		23.7		23.9
Sales		13.2		13.6		8.2		10.7		11.0		21.7		20.1
Yabulu, Australia (a)
Production
Nickel metal		6.0		6.2		10.3		9.1		9.5		18.6		11.5
Cobalt		0.4		0.3		0.5		0.4		0.4		0.8		0.9
Sales
Nickel metal		6.3		6.5		9.7		7.2		9.4		16.6		11.6
Cobalt		0.5		0.4		0.5		0.4		0.3		0.7		0.9
Nickel West, Australia
Production
Nickel contained in concentrate		1.2		1.3		2.8		6.4		5.4		11.8		1.2
Nickel contained in finished matte		8.5		10.3		4.9		0.6		10.8		11.4		12.4
Nickel metal		16.6		17.4		14.5		—		11.5		11.5		33.3
Nickel production		26.3		29.0		22.1		7.0		27.7		34.7		46.9
Sales
Nickel contained in concentrate		0.9		0.6		3.8		6.1		5.6		11.7		0.9
Nickel contained in finished matte		9.5		9.4		7.2		—		10.2		10.2		15.7
Nickel metal		14.4		15.7		20.7		4.7		6.6		11.3		29.1
Nickel sales		24.8		25.7		31.7		10.8		22.4		33.2		45.7

 

- 16 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

		QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
		DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
IRON ORE
BHP Billiton attributable production and sales unless otherwise stated.
(‘000 tonnes)
IRON ORE (a)
Pilbara, Australia
Production
Mt Newman Joint Venture		8,147		7,265		7,013		7,210		7,006		14,216		16,051
Goldsworthy Joint Venture		170		386		251		232		346		578		304
Area C Joint Venture		6,474		7,114		8,626		9,209		8,716		17,925		11,390
Yandi Joint Venture		9,770		10,061		10,622		8,961		10,026		18,987		19,593
Jimblebar		1,248		1,660		1,054		1,461		1,040		2,501		2,405
Total (BHP Billiton share)		25,809		26,486		27,567		27,073		27,134		54,207		49,743
Total production (100%)		30,363		31,160		32,432		31,851		31,922		63,773		58,522
Shipments
Lump		7,179		7,603		8,282		9,172		7,598		16,770		13,255
Fines		18,847		19,714		19,881		19,013		18,917		37,930		36,826
Total (BHP Billiton share)		26,026		27,317		28,164		28,185		26,515		54,700		50,081
Total sales (100%)		30,619		32,138		33,134		33,159		31,194		64,353		58,919
Samarco, Brazil
Production		2,107		1,933		2,357		2,751		2,221		4,972		4,174
Shipments		2,316		1,589		2,234		2,836		1,808		4,644		4,166

 

(a)	Iron ore production and shipments are reported on a wet tonnes basis.

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

		QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
		DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
MANGANESE
BHP Billiton attributable production and sales unless otherwise stated.
(‘000 tonnes)
MANGANESE ORE
South Africa
Saleable production (a)		709		877		882		929		755		1,684		1,281
Australia
Saleable production (a)		904		789		969		901		657		1,558		1,777
MANGANESE ALLOY
South Africa
Saleable production (a) (b)		141		125		124		133		112		245		264
Australia
Saleable production (a)		68		67		66		70		69		139		129

 

(a)	Shown on 100% basis. BHP Billiton interest in saleable production is 60%.

(b)	Production includes Medium Carbon Ferro Manganese.

 

- 17 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

		QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
		DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
METALLURGICAL COAL
BHP Billiton attributable production and sales unless otherwise stated.
(‘000 tonnes)
METALLURGICAL COAL (a)
Queensland, Australia
Production
BMA
Blackwater		1,370		1,345		1,510		1,457		1,239		2,696		2,777
Goonyella		1,505		1,117		1,737		1,699		1,915		3,614		3,182
Peak Downs		1,243		849		1,121		914		1,103		2,017		2,124
Saraji		890		376		853		1,104		1,027		2,131		1,667
Norwich Park		576		306		642		439		605		1,044		1,078
Gregory Joint Venture		554		239		644		771		892		1,663		1,227
BMA total		6,138		4,232		6,508		6,384		6,781		13,165		12,055
BHP Mitsui Coal (b)
South Walker Creek		868		438		617		1,049		943		1,992		1,807
Poitrel		658		409		688		584		828		1,412		1,173
BHP Mitsui Coal total		1,526		847		1,306		1,633		1,771		3,404		2,980
Queensland total		7,664		5,079		7,814		8,017		8,552		16,569		15,035
Shipments
Coking coal		5,875		3,790		5,275		5,923		5,590		11,513		11,354
Weak coking coal		1,966		1,726		1,442		1,961		1,547		3,508		3,634
Thermal coal		328		497		491		462		297		759		844
Total		8,169		6,013		7,207		8,346		7,434		15,780		15,832
Illawarra, Australia
Production		1,979		1,767		1,318		1,193		1,598		2,791		4,180
Shipments
Coking coal		1,851		1,549		1,097		895		1,195		2,090		3,757
Thermal coal		290		194		157		160		166		326		489
Total		2,141		1,743		1,254		1,055		1,361		2,416		4,246

 

(a)	Metallurgical coal production is reported on the basis of saleable product. Production figures include some thermal coal.

(b)	Shown on 100% basis. BHP Billiton interest in saleable production is 80%.

 

- 18 -

---

PRODUCTION AND SHIPMENT REPORT

 

		QUARTER ENDED										HALF YEAR ENDED
		DEC 2007		MAR 2008		JUNE 2008		SEPT 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2008		DEC 2007
ENERGY COAL
BHP Billiton attributable production and sales unless otherwise stated.
(‘000 tonnes)
South Africa (a)
Production		11,277		11,129		10,960		9,009		8,031		17,040		22,983
Sales
Export		4,269		3,119		3,989		2,329		2,945		5,274		8,476
Local utility		7,351		7,430		7,381		7,066		6,212		13,278		14,414
Inland		209		190		487		376		123		499		597
Total		11,829		10,739		11,857		9,771		9,280		19,051		23,487
New Mexico, USA
Production
Navajo Coal		1,899		1,800		2,286		2,064		1,923		3,987		3,447
San Juan Coal		1,772		836		2,548		1,941		1,094		3,035		2,735
Total		3,671		2,636		4,834		4,005		3,017		7,022		6,182
Sales—local utility		3,254		2,573		3,207		3,660		3,605		7,265		6,947
Hunter Valley, Australia
Production		2,959		2,965		2,934		2,975		2,993		5,968		5,877
Sales
Export		1,892		1,842		2,549		1,849		2,242		4,091		3,315
Inland		985		791		512		946		650		1,596		2,164
Total		2,877		2,633		3,061		2,795		2,892		5,687		5,479
Cerrejon Coal, Colombia
Production		2,702		2,553		2,625		2,807		2,435		5,242		5,190
Sales—export		2,334		2,534		2,547		2,593		2,829		5,422		5,095

 

(a)	Comparative periods include production from the South African Optimum operations, which was sold effective from 1 July 2007

 

- 19 -

---

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

		BHP Billiton Limited and BHP Billiton Plc
Date: 21 January 2009		By:		/s/ Jane McAloon
		Name:		Jane McAloon
		Title:		Group Company Secretary