BHP updates aluminum results of half year 2010

89% compared to the corresponding period. Higher aluminum and alumina prices increased Underlying EBIT by USD 197 million but were more than offset by broader cost pressures which included a combined USD 110 million impact from the devaluation of the US dollar and inflation.

The average realized aluminum price increased by 16% to USD 2,321 per tonne while the average realized alumina price rose 22% to USD 318 per tonne. Aluminum Underlying EBIT was unfavorably impacted by USD 76 million provision related to indirect taxes in the December 2010 half year.