Production of metallurgical coal rose to 1.38 million tonnes in the three months to June 30.

The LME said it was continuing to assess the sanctions Britain imposed in June on Potanin, known as Russia's "Nickel King".

the world's top copper producer, halted construction projects after reporting the death of a worker at its Chuqui Subterranea project, which followed another fatal accident earlier this month. 

Funding will also go towards an educational program to explain the health benefits of copper and illustrate the important role it plays for the low-carbon future.

The targeted multi-year nickel supply agreement could start as early as 2025 and may involve additional commodities over time, BHP said.

Despite rising worldwide aluminum demand, Alcoa will be pinched by escalating costs for energy and raw materials, CEO Roy Harvey said.