Newmont?s Batu Hijau gold, copper sales drop in Q1

Denver-based mining giant Newmont Mining Corp. reported on Thursday decreased first quarter 2009 gold and copper sales from its Batu Hijau mine in Sumbawa island, West Nusa Tenggara.

Gold and copper sales during the quarter reached 66,000 ounces and 95 million pounds respectively, lower than last year?s same period sales of 120,000 ounces and 105 million pounds.

Depsite the decrease in sales volume, the company said gold and copper sales were higher than expected primarily due to higher throughput from increased mill availability, higher recoveries and increased concentrate shipments.

Newmont has 45 percent equity in PT. Newmont Nusa Tenggara, which runs Indonesia?s second biggest copper and gold mine in Batu Hijau, Sumbawa island, West Nusa Tenggara. (alex)