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SOUTHERN COPPER CORP/ - Annual Report: 2010 (Form 10-K)

Table of Contents

 

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-K

 

x      ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended: December 31, 2010

 

OR

 

o         TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the transition period from               to               

 

Commission File Number:  1-14066

 

SOUTHERN COPPER CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

Delaware

 

13-3849074

(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or
organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

 

11811 North Tatum Blvd. Suite 2500, Phoenix, AZ

 

85028

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip code)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  (602) 494-5328

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class:

 

Name of each exchange on which registered:

Common stock, par value $0.01 per share

 

New York Stock Exchange

Lima Stock Exchange

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:  None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes  x  No  o

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes  o  No  x

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days  Yes  x  No  o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes x  No  o

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

 

Large accelerated filer x

 

Accelerated filer o

Non-accelerated filer o

 

Smaller reporting company o

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes  o  No  x

 

At January 31, 2011, there were of record 850,000,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding.

 

The aggregate market value of the shares of common stock (based upon the closing price at June 30, 2010 as reported on the New York Stock Exchange - Composite Transactions) of Southern Copper Corporation held by non affiliates was approximately $4,512 million.

 

PORTIONS OF THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTS ARE INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

 

Part III:

 

Proxy statement for 2011 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

 

 

 

Part IV:

 

Exhibit Index is on Page 188 through 190

 

 

 

 



Table of Contents

 

Southern Copper Corporation (“SCC”)

 

INDEX TO FORM 10-K

 

 

 

Page No.

PART I.

 

 

 

 

 

Item 1

Business

3-17

 

 

 

Item 1A

Risk factors

18-30

 

 

 

Item 1B

Unresolved Staff Comments

30

 

 

 

Item 2

Properties

31-73

 

 

 

Item 3

Legal Proceedings

73

 

 

 

PART II.

 

 

 

 

 

Item 5.

Market for Registrant’s Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

74-76

 

 

 

Item 6.

Selected Financial Data

77-78

 

 

 

Item 7.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

79-110

 

 

 

Item 7A.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

111-115

 

 

 

Item 8.

Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

116-180

 

 

 

Item 9.

Changes in and Disagreements with Accountant on Accounting and Financial Disclosure

181

 

 

 

Item 9A.

Controls and Procedures

181-182

 

 

 

Item 9B.

Other Information

183

 

 

 

PART III.

 

 

 

 

 

Item 10.

Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance

183-184

 

 

 

Item 11.

Executive Compensation

183

 

 

 

Item 12.

Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.

183

 

 

 

Item 13.

Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence.

183

 

 

 

Item 14.

Principal Accounting Fees and Services

183

 

 

 

PART IV.

 

 

 

 

 

Item 15.

Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules

185-188

 

 

 

 

Signatures

189

 

 

 

 

Supplemental information.

190-192

 

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PART I.

 

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

 

THE COMPANY

 

Southern Copper Corporation (“SCC” or the “Company”) is one of the largest integrated copper producers in the world.  We produce copper, molybdenum, zinc and silver.  All of our mining, smelting and refining facilities are located in Peru and in Mexico and we conduct exploration activities in those countries and Chile.  See Item 2 “Properties - Review of Operations” for maps of our principal mines, smelting facilities and refineries.  Our operations make us one of the largest mining companies in Peru and also in Mexico.  We believe we have the largest copper reserves in the world.  We were incorporated in Delaware in 1952 and have conducted copper mining operations since 1960.  Since 1996, our common stock has been listed on both the New York and Lima Stock Exchanges.

 

Our Peruvian copper operations involve mining, milling and flotation of copper ore to produce copper concentrates and molybdenum concentrates; the smelting of copper concentrates to produce anode copper; and the refining of anode copper to produce copper cathodes.  As part of this production process, we also produce significant amounts of molybdenum concentrate and refined silver.  Additionally, we produce refined copper using SXEW technology.  We operate the Toquepala and Cuajone mines high in the Andes Mountains, approximately 860 kilometers southeast of the city of Lima, Peru.  We also operate a smelter and refinery west of the Toquepala and Cuajone mines in the coastal city of Ilo, Peru.

 

Our Mexican operations are conducted through our subsidiary, Minera Mexico S.A. de C.V. (“Minera Mexico”), which we acquired in 2005.  Minera Mexico engages primarily in the mining and processing of copper, molybdenum, zinc, silver, gold and lead.  Minera Mexico operates through subsidiaries that are grouped into three separate units.  Mexicana de Cobre S.A. de C.V. (together with its subsidiaries, the “Mexcobre unit”) operates La Caridad, an open-pit copper mine, a copper ore concentrator, a SXEW plant, a smelter, refinery and a rod plant.  Buenavista del Cobre S.A. de C.V., formerly named Mexicana de Cananea S.A. de C.V. through December 11, 2010, (together with its subsidiaries, the “Buenavista unit”) operates Buenavista, formerly named Cananea, an open-pit copper mine, which is located at the site of one of the world’s largest copper ore deposits, a copper concentrator and two SXEW plants.  Industrial Minera Mexico, S.A. de C.V. and Minerales Metalicos del Norte, S.A. (together with its subsidiaries, the “IMMSA unit”) operate five underground mines that produce zinc, lead, copper, silver and gold, a coal mine and a zinc refinery.

 

We utilize modern, state of the art mining and processing methods, including global positioning systems and computerized mining operations.  Our operations have a high level of vertical integration that allows us to manage the entire production process, from the mining of the ore to the production of refined copper and other products and most related transport and logistics functions, using our own facilities, employees and equipment.

 

The sales prices for our products are largely determined by market forces outside of our control.  Our management, therefore, focuses on cost control and production enhancement to remain profitable.  We endeavor to achieve these goals through capital spending programs, exploration efforts and cost reduction programs.  Our focus is on seeking to remain profitable during periods of low copper prices and maximizing results in periods of high copper prices.  For additional information on the sale prices of the metals we produce, please see “Metal prices” in this Item 1.

 

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Currency Information:

 

Unless stated otherwise, all our financial information is presented in U.S. dollars and any reference herein to “U.S. dollars”, “dollars”, or “$” are to U.S. dollars; references to “S/.”, “nuevo sol” or “nuevos soles”, are to Peruvian nuevos soles; and references to “peso”, “pesos”, or “Ps.”, are to Mexican pesos.

 

Unit Information:

 

Unless otherwise noted, all tonnages are in metric tons.  To convert to short tons, multiply by 1.102.  All ounces are troy ounces.  All distances are in kilometers.  To convert to miles, multiply by 0.621.  To convert hectares to acres, multiply by 2.47.

 

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

 

The following chart describes our organizational structure, starting with our controlling stockholders, as of December 31, 2010.  For clarity of presentation, the chart identifies only our main subsidiaries and eliminates intermediate holding companies.

 

 

We are a majority-owned, indirect subsidiary of Grupo Mexico S.A.B. de C.V. (“Grupo Mexico”).  Through its wholly-owned subsidiaries, Grupo Mexico as of December 31, 2010 owns 80.0% of our capital stock.  Grupo Mexico’s principal business is to act as a holding company for shares of other corporations engaged in the mining, processing, purchase and sale of minerals and other products and railway and other related services.

 

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We conduct our operations in Peru through a registered branch (the “SPCC Peru Branch”, “Branch” or “Peruvian Branch”).  The SPCC Peru Branch comprises substantially all of our assets and liabilities associated with our copper operations in Peru.  The SPCC Peru Branch is not a corporation separate from us and, therefore, obligations of SPCC Peru Branch are direct obligations of SCC and vice-versa.  It is, however, an establishment, registered pursuant to Peruvian law, through which we hold assets, incur liabilities and conduct operations in Peru.  Although it has neither its own capital nor liability separate from us, it is deemed to have equity capital for purposes of determining the economic interests of holders of our investment shares, (See Note 14 “Non-controlling interest” of our consolidated financial statements).

 

On April 1, 2005, we acquired Minera Mexico, the largest mining company in Mexico on a stand-alone basis, from Americas Mining Corporation (“AMC”), a subsidiary of Grupo Mexico, our controlling stockholder.  Minera Mexico is a holding company and all of its operations are conducted through subsidiaries that are grouped into three units: (i) the Mexcobre unit (ii) the Buenavista unit and (iii) the IMMSA unit.  We own 99.95% of Minera Mexico.

 

Pursuant to the $500 million share repurchase program authorized by our Board of Directors in 2008, through December 31, 2010, we purchased 33.4 million shares of our common stock at a cost of $457.0 million.  These shares will be available for general corporate purposes.  We may purchase additional shares from time to time, based on market conditions and other factors.  This repurchase program has no expiration date and may be modified or discontinued at any time.

 

On July 22, 2010, we received a non-binding proposal from our parent company, AMC, offering to effect an all-stock business combination of Southern Copper and AMC, the parent company of Asarco, LLC (“Asarco”), in which all stockholders of Southern Copper would receive 1.237 common shares of AMC in exchange for each share of SCC.  Under the proposal presented by AMC the stock of AMC would be registered and listed on the New York, Mexico and the Lima stock exchanges.  Once the listing and registration of the AMC shares are completed, SCC’s shares would be delisted from the exchanges.

 

In August 2010, we formed a special committee of independent directors to evaluate AMC’s proposal.  The special committee has engaged independent legal, financial and technical advisors to assist in the evaluation.  There is no specific deadline to complete this evaluation.

 

REPUBLIC OF PERU AND MEXICO

 

Our revenues are derived primarily from our operations in Peru and Mexico.  Risks related to our operations in both countries include those associated with economic and political conditions, effects of currency fluctuations and inflation, effects of government regulations and the geographic concentration of our operations.

 

AVAILABLE INFORMATION

 

We file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).  You may read and copy any document we file at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street NE, Washington, D.C. 20549.  Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for information on the Public Reference Room.  The SEC maintains a website that contains annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information that issuers (including Southern Copper Corporation) file electronically with the SEC.  The SEC’s website is www.sec.gov.

 

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Our Internet address is www.southerncoppercorp.com.  Commencing with the Form 8-K dated March 14, 2003, we have made available free of charge on this internet address our annual, quarterly and current reports, as soon as reasonably practical after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC.  Our website includes the Corporate Governance guidelines and the charters of our most significant Board Committees.  However, the information found on our website is not part of this or any other report.

 

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

 

Forward-looking statements in this report and in other Company statements include statements regarding expected commencement dates of mining or metal production operations, projected quantities of future metal production, anticipated production rates, operating efficiencies, costs and expenditures, including taxes, as well as projected demand or supply for the Company’s products.  Actual results could differ materially depending upon certain factors, including the risks and uncertainties relating to general U.S. and international economic and political conditions, the cyclical and volatile prices of copper, other commodities and supplies, including fuel and electricity, the availability of materials, insurance coverage, equipment, required permits or approvals and financing, the occurrence of unusual weather or operating conditions, lower than expected ore grades, water and geological problems, the failure of equipment or processes to operate in accordance with specifications, failure to obtain financial assurance to meet closure and remediation obligations, labor relations, litigation and environmental risks, as well as political and economic risk associated with foreign operations.  Results of operations are directly affected by metals prices on commodity exchanges, which can be volatile.

 

Additional business information follows:

 

COPPER BUSINESS

 

Copper is the world’s third most widely used metal, after iron and aluminum, and an important component in the world’s infrastructure.  Copper has unique chemical and physical properties, including high ductility, malleability, and thermal and electrical conductivity, and resistance to corrosion that has made it a superior material for use in electrical and electronic products, including power transmission and generation, which accounts for about three quarters of its global copper use, telecommunications, building construction, transportation and industrial machinery businesses.  Copper is also an important metal in non-electrical applications such as plumbing and roofing and, when alloyed with zinc to form brass, in many industrial and consumer applications.

 

Copper is usually found in nature in association with sulfur.  Pure copper metal is generally produced from a multistage process, beginning with the mining and concentrating of low-grade ores containing copper sulfide minerals, and followed by smelting and electrolytic refining to produce a pure copper cathode.  An increasing share of copper is produced from acid leaching of oxidized ores.  Copper is one of the oldest metals ever used and has been one of the important materials in the development of civilization.

 

Copper industry fundamentals, including copper demand, price levels and stocks, strengthened in late 2003 and copper prices continued to improve into the third quarter of 2008, from the 15-year price lows set during 2002.  Late in the third

 

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quarter of 2008 the price of copper, as well as the price of other commodities, suffered a brief temporary decline as a consequence of the world financial crisis reaching price lows of $1.30 per pound in the 4th quarter of 2008.  However, since 2009 the price of copper has improved, closing at year-end 2010 at $4.42 and $4.44 per pound on the LME and COMEX, respectively, and as of February 15, 2011 the LME and COMEX prices per pound were $4.58 and $4.62, respectively.

 

BUSINESS REPORTING SEGMENTS:

 

Our management views Southern Copper as having three reportable segments and manages it on the basis of these segments.

 

The three segments identified are groups of individual mines, each of which constitutes an operating segment with similar economic characteristics, type of products, processes and support facilities, regulatory environments, employee bargaining contracts and currency risks.  In addition, each mine within the individual group earns revenues from similar type of customers for their products and services and each group incurs expenses independently, including commercial transactions between groups.

 

Inter-segment sales are based on arm’s-length prices at the time of sale.  These may not be reflective of actual prices realized by the Company due to various factors, including additional processing, timing of sales to outside customers and transportation cost.  Added to the segment information is information regarding the Company’s sales.  The segments identified by the Company are:

 

1.               Peruvian operations, which include the Toquepala and Cuajone mine complexes and the smelting and refining plants, industrial railroad and port facilities which service both mines.  Sales of its products are recorded as revenue of our Peruvian mines.  The Peruvian operations produce copper, with production of by-products of molybdenum, silver and other material.

2.               Mexican open-pit operations, which include the La Caridad and Buenavista mine complexes and the smelting and refining plants and support facilities which service both mines.  Sales of its products are recorded as revenue of our Mexican mines.  The Mexican open-pit operations produce copper, with production of by-products of molybdenum, silver and other material.

3.               Mexican underground mining operations, which include five underground mines that produce zinc, copper, silver and gold, a coal mine which produces coal and coke, and a zinc refinery.  This group is identified as the IMMSA unit and sales of its products are recorded as revenue of the IMMSA unit.

 

Financial information is regularly prepared for each of the three segments and the results are reported to the Chief Operating Officer on a segment basis.  The Chief Operating Officer focuses on operating income and on total assets as measures of performance to evaluate different segments and to make decisions to allocate resources to the reported segments.  These are common measures in the mining industry.

 

Segment information is included in Item 2 “Properties”, under the captions — “Metal production by segments” and “Ore Reserves.”  More information on business segment and segment financial information is included in Note 21 “Segment and Related Information” of our consolidated financial statements.

 

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CAPITAL INVESTMENT PROGRAM

 

For a description of our capital investment program see Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” — “Capital Investment Program.”

 

EXPLORATION ACTIVITIES

 

We are engaged in ongoing extensive exploration to locate additional ore bodies in Peru, Mexico and Chile.  We also conduct exploration in the areas of our current mining operations.  We invested $34.3 million in exploration programs in 2010, $24.6 million in 2009 and $37.0 million in 2008 and we expect to spend approximately $14.7 million in exploration programs in 2011.

 

Currently in Peru, we have direct control of 170,846 hectares of mineral rights.  In Mexico, we currently hold 174,887 hectares of exploration concessions.  We also currently hold 35,958 hectares of exploration concessions in Chile.

 

Peru

 

Los Chancas.  The Los Chancas project, located in the department of Apurimac in southern Peru, is a copper and molybdenum porphyry deposit.  As a result of the pre-feasibility studies and after the preliminary design of the pit, estimates show 355 million tons of mineralized material with a copper content of 0.62%, molybdenum content of 0.05% and 0.039 grams of gold per ton.  In 2010, 9,944 meters of diamond drilling were performed thus concluding the complementary studies geared to define the mineral reserves of the deposit.  Likewise, as part of the feasibility study, the geotechnical studies were concluded.  We plan to continue to conduct the feasibility study of the project in 2011.

 

Tantahuatay.  The Tantahuatay project is located in the department of Cajamarca in northern Peru.  In 2010, we began development of this project to exploit the gold “cap.”  The Tantahuatay project contains estimated resources of 27.1 million tons of mineralized material, with an average silver content of 13 grams per ton and 0.89 grams of gold per ton.  We expect to start dore gold production by June 2011 and the project is expected to have an annual production of 90,000 ounces of gold and 425,000 ounces of silver for five years.  We have a 44.25% participation in this project.

 

During 2011, we will continue to assess the underlying copper deposits for possible future development.

 

Other Peruvian Prospects

 

As part of the 2010 exploration program, we concluded a program of 8,000 meters of diamond drilling in the central coast of Peru and started the drilling work at the Huallas project located in the department of Ayacucho (a skarn of copper-lead-zinc) and at the Clara project (copper porphyry) located in the department of Arequipa, where the Company has a 15,000 meter diamond drilling program.

 

Additionally, for 2011 we are considering developing a diamond drilling program of approximately 10,000 meters for some prospects located in the northern and southern parts of Peru.  We will continue with the regional exploration program of the various mineral deposits in Peru.

 

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Mexico

 

In addition to exploratory drilling programs at existing mines, we are currently conducting exploration to locate mineral deposits at various other sites in Mexico.  The following are some of the more significant exploration projects:

 

El Arco.  The El Arco site is a copper deposit located in the state of Baja California in Mexico.  Exploration work at the site indicates approximately 1,207 million of metric tons of mineralized sulfide material with an average copper content of 0.5% and 0.125 grams of gold per ton and 290 million metric tons of copper oxide with 0.35% of copper grade.  In 2010, a deep drilling program of 1,214 meters indicates approximately 390 million tons of mineralized material with 0.62% of copper content below the current pit limits.  During 2011, we expect to increase the estimated mineralized material with a diamond drilling program of 5,000 meters.

 

A water source for the leaching operation was identified in 2009 and in 2010 four new production wells were drilled and confirmed an underground water availability of 300 liters per second in the area.

 

The feasibility study performed in 2010 is concluded and during 2011 we will evaluate the results to define the next steps of the project.

 

Angangueo.  The Angangueo site is located in the state of Michoacan in Mexico.  A deposit of 13 million tons of mineralized material has been identified with diamond drilling.  Testing indicates that the deposit has mineralized material containing 0.16 grams of gold and 262 grams of silver per ton, with 0.79% lead, 0.97% copper and 3.5% zinc.  In 2005, we received the approval for our environmental impact study and we are in the process of obtaining land use approval.  During 2009 and 2010, we continued negotiating with the state of Michoacan, Mexico to purchase various properties essential to our operations.  We expect to obtain a final agreement with the state government in 2011.  A prefeasibility study, commissioned in 2009, indicated that the Angangueo project needs to upgrade the Descubridora vein with more drilling.  In 2010 we started the feasibility study that we expect to complete in 2011 to evaluate the construction of the project.

 

Buenavista-Zinc (formerly named Buenavista).  The Buenavista-Zinc site is located in the state of Sonora, Mexico and forms part of the Buenavista ore body.  Drilling and metallurgical studies have shown that the zinc-copper deposit contains approximately 36 million tons of mineralized material containing 29 grams of silver per ton, 0.69% copper and 3.3% zinc.  A new “scoping level” study indicates that Buenavista-Zinc may be an economic deposit.  Due to the now settled labor strike at the Buenavista mine no work was performed from 2008 through 2010.  In 2011 we expect to resume the project, complete the feasibility study and evaluate starting the initial stripping and the construction of the concentrator.

 

Carbon Coahuila.  In Coahuila, an intensive exploration program of diamond drilling has identified two additional areas, Esperanza with a potential for more than 30 million tons of “in place” mineralized coal and Guayacan with a potential for 15 million tons of “in place” mineralized coal, that could be used for a future coal-fired power plant.  During 2010, 1,213 meters of diamond drilling were completed at the Rosita pit area and with this drilling, 10,100 tons of mineralized coal was added to the mineralized material estimates for this open pit project.  In 2011 we plan to continue the exploration of the open pit coal project between the Conquista and La Caballada pits.

 

The Chalchihuites.  The Chalchihuites site is located in the state of Zacatecas.  It is a replacement deposit with mixed oxides and sulfides of lead, copper, zinc and silver.  A drilling program, in the late 1990’s, defined 16 million tons of

 

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mineralized material containing 95 grams of silver, 0.36% lead, 0.69% copper and 3.08% zinc per ton.  Preliminary metallurgical testing indicates that a leaching precipitating-flotation recovery process can be applied to this ore.  In 2009, we started a prefeasibility study which is expected to be completed by the end of 2011.  In 2010, we signed an agreement for the Cronos claims and plan to add the Guadalupe de Guantes claim in early 2011.  Exploration at these claims will occur in 2011 and is expected to add at least 10 million tons to the current mineralized material estimates.

 

Pilares.  In 2008, we bought Freeport-McMoran’s 49% interest in Minera Pilares, S.A. de C.V. (“Pilares”), giving us 100% ownership of Pilares.  Pilares is located in the state of Sonora, ten kilometers from the town of Nacozari de Garcia and six straight line kilometers from our La Caridad mine.  The work to clear and prepare the access to the Porvenir tunnel started at the end of 2008, but was suspended the same year due to unexpected difficulties in crossing a fault.  It was replaced by superficial drilling.  Calculations using Mine-Sight software indicated 52.9 million tons of estimated mineralized material, with 0.92% copper content.  Because all previous mineralized material calculations were based on rotary drilling, a diamond drilling program of 13,200 meters was performed in 2010, which confirmed these estimates of mineralized material.  A “heavy medium” metallurgical test was also conducted on core samples from this drilling.  Preliminary results indicate that this method may be feasible for the Pilares ore.  In 2010 we started a feasibility study, which we expect to complete by the end of the second quarter 2011.  As part of the feasibility study, we will perform metallurgical testing in a pilot plant to confirm the laboratory results.

 

Sierra de Lobos.  This project is located southwest of the city of Leon, Guanajuato.  Our target is to identify a copper and zinc deposit with mineralized material with average grades between 0.5% and 1.0% copper and between 5% and 7% zinc including a small contribution of gold and silver.  In 2008, 1,636 meters were drilled.  Results confirm the presence of copper and zinc mineralization, but an economic deposit has not yet been identified.  Due to the changes in our investment program priorities no work was performed in 2009 and 2010.  We expect to resume the drilling work on this project in the second half of 2011.

 

Chile

 

Ticnamar. The Ticnamar prospect, located in northern Chile, has been explored as a deposit with copper-molybdenum porphyric veins.  In 2010, 1,431 meters of diamond drilling were completed.  For 2011, we have planned geophysical studies geared to locate new drilling targets.

 

Catanave.  Located in northern Chile (Arica), Catanave belongs to a mineralized epithermal system of gold and silver.  In 2010, the environmental impact study was approved and for 2011 we have planned a diamond drilling program of 5,500 meters.

 

Santa Marta.  Located in the Atacama region, Santa Marta is being explored for copper and molybdenum porphyry.  During 2010, we diamond drilled 3,318 meters.  Exploration will continue in 2011.

 

San Benito.  Located in the Atacama region, San Benito is being explored for copper and molybdenum porphyry.  In 2010, a diamond drilling program of 3,241 meters was completed.  In 2011, we are planning geophysical studies geared towards locating new drilling targets.

 

El Salado y Resguardo de la Costa.  During 2010, we evaluated the results of the exploration stage of these two copper-gold prospects located in northern Chile (Atacama area) and decided to temporarily put these prospects on hold for further evaluation.

 

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Other Chilean Prospects.  For 2011, we plan to continue with a regional exploration program oriented to locate systems mainly of porphyritics of copper and molybdenum.

 

PRINCIPAL PRODUCTS AND MARKETS

 

The principal uses of copper are in the building and construction industry, electrical and electronic products and, to a lesser extent, industrial machinery and equipment, consumer products and the automotive and transportation industries.  Molybdenum is used to toughen alloy steels and soften tungsten alloy and is also used in fertilizers, dyes, enamels and reagents.  Silver is used for photographic, electrical and electronic products and, to a lesser extent, brazing alloys and solder, jewelry, coinage, silverware and catalysts.  Zinc is primarily used as a coating on iron and steel to protect against corrosion.  It is also used to make die cast parts, in the manufacturing of batteries and in the form of sheets for architectural purposes. Our marketing strategy and annual sales planning emphasize developing and maintaining long-term customer relationships, and thus acquiring annual or other long-term contracts for the sale of our products is a high priority.  Approximately 80% of our metal production for the years 2010, 2009 and 2008, was sold under annual or longer-term contracts.  Sales prices are determined based on prevailing commodity prices for the quotation period according to the terms of the contract.

 

We focus on the ultimate end-user customers as opposed to selling on the spot market or to trading companies.  In addition, we devote significant marketing effort to diversifying our sales both by region and by customer base.  We strive to provide superior customer service, including just-in-time deliveries of our products.  Our ability to consistently fulfill customer demand is supported by our substantial production capacity.

 

For additional information on sales please see Revenue recognition in Note 3 “Summary of significant accounting policies” and Note 21 “Segment and related information” of our consolidated financial statements.

 

METALS PRICES

 

Prices for our products are principally a function of supply and demand and, except for molybdenum, are established on the Commodities Exchange, or COMEX, in New York and the London Metal Exchange or LME, the two most important metal exchanges in the world.  Prices for our molybdenum products are established by reference to the publication Platt’s Metals Week.  Our contract prices also reflect any negotiated premiums and the costs of freight and other factors.  From time to time, we have entered into hedging transactions to provide partial protection against future decreases in the market price of metals and we may do so under certain market conditions.  We entered into copper derivative contracts in 2008 and 2010.  During 2009 we did not hold any metal derivative contracts.  For a further discussion of derivative instruments see Item 7A “Quantitative and Qualitative Discussion about Market Risk”.  For a further discussion of our products market prices, please see Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” — “Metal Prices”.

 

The table below shows the high, low and average COMEX and LME copper prices during the last 15 years:

 

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Copper (COMEX)

 

Copper (LME)

 

Year

 

High

 

Low

 

Average

 

High

 

Low

 

Average

 

1996

 

1.31

 

0.86

 

1.06

 

1.29

 

0.83

 

1.04

 

1997

 

1.23

 

0.76

 

1.04

 

1.23

 

0.77

 

1.03

 

1998

 

0.86

 

0.64

 

0.75

 

0.85

 

0.65

 

0.75

 

1999

 

0.85

 

0.61

 

0.72

 

0.84

 

0.61

 

0.71

 

2000

 

0.93

 

0.74

 

0.84

 

0.91

 

0.73

 

0.82

 

2001

 

0.87

 

0.60

 

0.73

 

0.83

 

0.60

 

0.72

 

2002

 

0.78

 

0.65

 

0.72

 

0.77

 

0.64

 

0.71

 

2003

 

1.04

 

0.71

 

0.81

 

1.05

 

0.70

 

0.81

 

2004

 

1.54

 

1.06

 

1.29

 

1.49

 

1.06

 

1.30

 

2005

 

2.28

 

1.40

 

1.68

 

2.11

 

1.39

 

1.67

 

2006

 

4.08

 

2.13

 

3.10

 

3.99

 

2.06

 

3.05

 

2007

 

3.75

 

2.40

 

3.23

 

3.77

 

2.37

 

3.23

 

2008

 

4.08

 

1.25

 

3.13

 

4.08

 

1.26

 

3.16

 

2009

 

3.33

 

1.38

 

2.35

 

3.33

 

1.38

 

2.34

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010-1st Q

 

3.56

 

2.85

 

3.28

 

3.55

 

2.83

 

3.28

 

2010-2nd Q

 

3.63

 

2.76

 

3.19

 

3.61

 

2.76

 

3.19

 

2010-3rd Q

 

3.66

 

2.87

 

3.30

 

3.65

 

2.88

 

3.29

 

2010-4th Q

 

4.44

 

3.66

 

3.93

 

4.42

 

3.67

 

3.92

 

2010

 

4.44

 

2.76

 

3.43

 

4.42

 

2.76

 

3.42

 

 

The per pound COMEX copper price during the last 5, 10 and 15 year periods averaged $3.05, $2.05 and $1.66, respectively.  The per pound LME copper price during the last 5, 10 and 15 year periods averaged $3.04, $2.04 and $1.65, respectively.

 

At February 15, 2011, the COMEX and LME copper prices were $4.62 and $4.58 per pound, respectively.

 

The table below shows the high, low and average market prices for our three principal by-products during the last 15 years:

 

 

 

Zinc(LME)

 

Silver (COMEX)

 

Molybdenum (Dealer Oxide
Platt’s Metals Week)

 

Year

 

High

 

Low

 

Average

 

High

 

Low

 

Average

 

High

 

Low

 

Average

 

1996

 

0.48

 

0.45

 

0.47

 

5.82

 

4.67

 

5.18

 

5.25

 

3.13

 

3.79

 

1997

 

0.80

 

0.47

 

0.60

 

6.31

 

4.16

 

4.87

 

4.75

 

3.59

 

4.31

 

1998

 

0.52

 

0.42

 

0.46

 

7.26

 

4.61

 

5.53

 

4.48

 

2.10

 

3.42

 

1999

 

0.56

 

0.41

 

0.49

 

5.76

 

4.87

 

5.22

 

2.80

 

2.52

 

2.66

 

2000

 

0.58

 

0.46

 

0.51

 

5.55

 

4.56

 

4.97

 

2.92

 

2.19

 

2.56

 

2001

 

0.48

 

0.33

 

0.40

 

4.81

 

4.03

 

4.36

 

2.58

 

2.19

 

2.35

 

2002

 

0.38

 

0.33

 

0.35

 

5.11

 

4.22

 

4.60

 

7.90

 

2.43

 

3.76

 

2003

 

0.46

 

0.34

 

0.38

 

5.98

 

4.35

 

4.89

 

7.60

 

3.28

 

5.29

 

2004

 

0.58

 

0.43

 

0.48

 

8.21

 

5.51

 

6.68

 

32.38

 

7.35

 

16.20

 

2005

 

0.87

 

0.53

 

0.63

 

9.00

 

6.43

 

7.32

 

39.25

 

25.00

 

31.99

 

2006

 

2.10

 

0.87

 

1.49

 

14.85

 

8.82

 

11.54

 

28.20

 

21.00

 

24.75

 

2007

 

1.93

 

1.00

 

1.47

 

15.50

 

11.47

 

13.39

 

33.75

 

24.50

 

30.19

 

2008

 

1.28

 

0.47

 

0.85

 

20.69

 

8.80

 

14.97

 

33.88

 

8.75

 

28.42

 

2009

 

1.17

 

0.48

 

0.75

 

19.30

 

10.42

 

14.67

 

18.00

 

7.83

 

11.03

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010-1st Q

 

1.04

 

0.90

 

1.04

 

18.78

 

14.82

 

16.91

 

18.60

 

11.75

 

15.78

 

2010-2nd Q

 

1.13

 

0.72

 

0.92

 

19.64

 

17.29

 

18.35

 

17.93

 

13.75

 

16.10

 

2010-3rd Q

 

1.01

 

0.95

 

0.91

 

21.93

 

17.42

 

18.98

 

16.03

 

15.35

 

14.86

 

2010-4th Q

 

1.14

 

0.94

 

1.05

 

30.91

 

22.01

 

26.47

 

16.15

 

15.58

 

15.69

 

2010

 

1.14

 

0.72

 

0.98

 

30.91

 

14.82

 

20.18

 

18.60

 

11.75

 

15.60

 

 

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The per pound LME zinc price during the last 5, 10 and 15 year periods averaged $1.11, $0.78 and $0.69, respectively.  The per ounce COMEX silver price during the last 5, 10 and 15 year periods averaged $14.95, $10.26 and $8.56, respectively.  The per pound Platt’s Metals Week Dealer Oxide molybdenum price during the last 5, 10 and 15 year periods averaged $22.00, $16.96 and $12.42, respectively.

 

At February 15, 2011, the LME zinc price was $1.13 per pound, the COMEX silver price was $30.53 per ounce and the Platt’s Metals Week Dealer Oxide molybdenum price was $17.88 per pound.

 

COMPETITIVE CONDITIONS

 

Competition in the copper market is primarily on a price and service basis, with price being the most important consideration when supplies of copper are ample.  Our products compete with other materials, including aluminum and plastics.  For additional information, see “Item 1A Risk Factors — The copper mining industry is highly competitive.”

 

EMPLOYEES

 

As of December 31, 2010, we had 11,126 employees, approximately 69% of whom are covered by labor agreements with ten different labor unions.  During the last several years, we have experienced strikes or other labor disruptions that have had an adverse impact on our operations and operating results.  Our Taxco and San Martin mines in Mexico have been on strike since July 2007, our Buenavista mine was on strike from July 2007 through June 6, 2010.

 

Peru

 

Approximately 62% of our Peruvian labor force was unionized at December 31, 2010 and was represented by eight separate unions.  Three of these unions, one at each major production area, represent the majority of our workers.  In September 2010, we reached a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with these three unions.  This agreement includes, among other things, a 5% annual salary increase and a signing bonus of approximately $6,700 for each of the workers (approximately 2,000).  In addition, the agreement provides for a productivity bonus program for the departments that reach certain parameters.  Also, there are five smaller unions, representing the balance of workers.  Collective bargaining agreements for these smaller unions are in force through November 2012.

 

During 2010 and 2009, no strikes occurred.  In 2008, strikes in support of a mining federation strike occurred at our operating areas, during which operations were close to normal.

 

Employees of the Toquepala and Cuajone units reside in townsites, where we have built 3,700 houses and apartments.  In 1998, Company housing at our Ilo unit, was sold to workers at nominal prices.  We still hold 90 houses at Ilo for staff personnel.  Housing, together with maintenance and utility services, is provided at minimal cost to most of our employees.  Our townsite and housing complexes include schools, medical facilities, churches, social clubs and recreational facilities.  We also provide shopping, banking and other services at the townsites.

 

Mexico

 

Approximately 73% of the Mexican labor force was unionized at December 31, 2010 and was represented by two separate unions.  Under Mexican law, the terms of employment for

 

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unionized workers are set forth in collective bargaining agreements.  Typically Mexican companies negotiate the salary provisions of collective bargaining agreements with the labor unions annually and negotiate other benefits every two years.  We conduct negotiations separately at each mining complex and each processing plant.

 

The Buenavista mine experienced several recent labor stoppages.  The latest labor stoppage started in July 2007 and finished in June 2010.  Additionally, the Taxco and San Martin mines have been on strike since July 2007.  In 2009, more than 40% of the workers of the San Martin mine and 50% of the workers of the Taxco mine voluntarily requested severance payments and terminated their labor relationship with us. On December 10, 2009, a federal tribunal confirmed the legality of the San Martin strike.

 

In the case of the Taxco mine, following the workers refusal to allow exploration of new reserves, the Company commenced litigation seeking to terminate the collective bargaining agreement and all the individual labor contracts of the workers affiliated with the Mexican Mining Union at the Taxco mine, which termination was approved by the federal labor court on September 1, 2010.  The ruling was based upon the resistance of the mining union to allow mining experts to search for reserves at the Taxco mine.  If sustained, this ruling will also have the effect of terminating the protracted strike at the Taxco unit.  The mining union has presented an appeal of the labor court ruling before federal tribunals.  At December 31, 2010, the resolution of this case is pending.

 

It is expected that operations at these mines will remain suspended until these labor issues are resolved.

 

In the third quarter of 2010 operations at the La Caridad metallurgical complex were disrupted due to access road blockages established by a group of terminated workers and other agitators.  In October 2010, with the assistance of the Mexican authorities, order was restored and normal operations were restarted.  La Caridad’s mining operations continued during the blockage period and as a result we were able to maintain output.

 

Employees of the Mexcobre and Buenavista units reside in townsites at La Caridad and Buenavista, where we have built approximately 2,000 houses and apartments and 275 houses and apartments, respectively.  Most of the employees of the IMMSA unit reside on the grounds of the mining or processing complexes in which they work and where we have built approximately 900 houses and apartments.  Housing, together with maintenance and utility services, is provided at minimal cost to most of our employees.  Our townsites and housing complexes include educational and, in some units, medical facilities, churches, social clubs, shopping centers, banking and other services.  At the Buenavista unit, health care is provided free of charge to employees, retired unionized employees and their families.

 

FUEL, ELECTRICITY AND WATER SUPPLIES

 

The principal raw materials used in our operations are fuels, electricity and water.  We use natural gas to power boilers and generators and for metallurgical processes at our Mexican operations and diesel fuel for mining equipment.  We believe that supplies of fuel, electricity and water are readily available.  Although the prices of these raw materials may fluctuate beyond our control, we focus our efforts to reduce these costs through cost and energy saving measures.

 

Peru

 

In Peru, electric power for our operating facilities is generated by two thermal electric plants owned and operated by Enersur S.A., an independent power company

 

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(“Enersur”), a diesel and waste heat boilers plant located adjacent to the Ilo smelter and a coal plant located south of Ilo.  Power generation capacity for Peruvian operations is currently 344 megawatts.  Enersur is building a 400 megawatt power plant, which will provide additional power reserves in the Ilo area.  We believe the plant is scheduled to commence operations in 2013.

 

In addition, we have nine megawatts of power generation capacity from two small hydro-generating installations at Cuajone.  Power is distributed over a 224-kilometer closed loop transmission circuit, which is interconnected with the Peruvian network.  We obtain fuel in Peru primarily from a local producer.

 

In 1997, we sold our Ilo power plant to Enersur.  In connection with the sale, a power purchase agreement was also completed under which we agreed to purchase all of our power needs for our Peruvian operations from Enersur for twenty years, commencing in 1997.  In 2003 the agreement was amended releasing Enersur from its obligation to construct additional capacity to meet our increased electricity requirements and changing the power tariff as called for in the original agreement.

 

In 2009, we signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Enersur regarding its power supply agreement.  The MOU contains new economic terms that we believe better reflect current economic conditions in the power industry and in Peru.  We expect to obtain savings in our future power costs.  The new economic conditions agreed in the MOU have been applied by Enersur to its invoices to us since May 2009.  Additionally, the MOU includes an option for providing power for the Tia Maria project.  The MOU also established a time frame in which Enersur and the Company must negotiate in good faith to settle certain pending issues, including agreeing on a power purchase agreement for the Tia Maria project.  During 2010, we continued our negotiations with Enersur in order to obtain a final agreement for the Tia Maria project.

 

In Peru, we have water rights or licenses for up to 1,950 liters per second from well fields at Huaitire, Vizcachas and Titijones aquifers and also surface water from the Suches lake and two small water courses, namely Quebrada Honda and Quebrada Tacalaya, which together are sufficient to supply the needs of our two operating units at Toquepala and Cuajone.  At Ilo, we have desalinization plants that produce water for industrial and domestic use that we believe are sufficient for our current and projected needs.

 

Mexico

 

Besides electric energy, the principal raw materials used in our operations are fuels.  Natural gas is used for metallurgical processes, to power furnaces, converters, casting wheels, boilers and electric generators.  Diesel oil is a backup for all these uses.  Also at our operations we use diesel oil for mining equipment.  Fuel, electricity and water supplies are readily available.  The prices of these materials may fluctuate beyond our control since the only supplier is the Mexican government.  We therefore focus our efforts to reduce these costs through cost and energy saving measures.

 

In Mexico, fuel is purchased directly from Petroleos Mexicanos, (“PEMEX”), the state oil monopoly.  Electricity for our Mexican operations, which is used as the main energy source at our mining complexes, is purchased from the Comision Federal de Electricidad, the Federal Electricity Commission, or CFE, the state’s electrical power producer.  In addition, we recover some energy from waste heat boilers at the La Caridad smelter.  Accordingly, a significant portion of our operating costs in Mexico are dependent upon the pricing policies of PEMEX and CFE, which reflect government policy, as well as international market prices for crude oil, natural gas and conditions in the refinery markets.

 

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Mexcobre imports natural gas from the U.S. through its pipeline (between Douglas, Arizona and Nacozari, Sonora).  This permits us to import natural gas from the United States at market prices and thereby reduce operating costs.  Several contracts with PEMEX and the United States provide us with the option of using a monthly fixed price or daily fixed prices for our natural gas purchases.

 

During 2008 and 2009, we entered into gas swap contracts to protect part of our gas consumption as follows:

 

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gas volume (MMBTUs)

 

184,000

 

460,000

 

Fixed price

 

$

3.6350

 

$

8.2175

 

Loss (in millions)

 

$

 

$

0.9

 

 

The losses obtained were included in the production cost.  During all of 2010 and at December 31, 2010, we did not hold any open gas swap contracts.

 

Energy is the principal cost in mining, therefore the concern for its conservation and efficient usage is very relevant.  We have an energy management committee at most of our mines.  The committees meet periodically to discuss consumptions and to develop measures directed at saving energy.  Also, alternative sources are being analyzed at the corporate level, both from traditional and renewable energy sources.  This has helped us develop a culture of energy conservation directed at the sustainability of our operations.

 

In prior years we announced plans to build a coal power generation plant in the state of Sonora, Mexico.  In 2010, after studying the cost and feasibility, we decided not to move forward with this project.

 

In Mexico, water is a national property and industries not connected to a public services water supply must obtain a water concession from Comision Nacional del Agua (the “National Water Commission”, or “CNA”).  Water usage fees are established in the Ley Federal de Derechos (the Federal Law on Water Rights), which distinguishes several availability zones with different fees per unit of volume according to each zone.  All of our operations have one or several water concessions and, with the exception of Mexicana de Cobre, pump out the required water from one or several wells.  Mexicana de Cobre pumps water from the La Angostura dam, which is close to the mine and plants.  At our Buenavista facility, we maintain our own wells and pay the CNA for water measured by usage.  Water conservation committees have been established in each plant in order to conserve and recycle water.  Water usage fees are updated on a yearly basis and have been increasing in recent years.

 

ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

 

For a discussion of environmental matters reference is made to the information contained under the caption “Environmental matters” in Note 15 “Commitments and contingencies” of the consolidated financial statements.

 

MINING RIGHTS AND CONCESSIONS

 

Peru

 

We have 224,995 hectares in concessions from the Peruvian government for our exploration, exploitation, extraction and/or production operations, distributed among our various sites as follows:

 

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Toquepala

 

Cuajone

 

Ilo

 

Other

 

Total

 

 

 

(hectares)

 

Plants

 

300

 

456

 

421

 

 

1,177

 

Operations

 

25,846

 

17,423

 

9,703

 

 

52,972

 

Exploration

 

2,099

 

6,700

 

4,600

 

157,447

 

170,846

 

Total

 

28,245

 

24,579

 

14,724

 

157,447

 

224,995

 

 

We believe that our Peruvian concessions are in full force and in effect under applicable Peruvian laws and that we are in compliance with all material terms and requirements applicable to these concessions.  The concessions have indefinite terms, subject to our payment of concession fees of up to $3.00 per hectare annually for the mining concessions and a fee based on nominal capacity for the processing concessions.  Fees paid during 2010, 2009 and 2008 were approximately $1.1 million, $1.1 million and $1.8 million, respectively.  We have two types of mining concessions in Peru: metallic and non-metallic concessions.  We also have water concessions for well fields at Huaitire, Titijones and Vizcachas and surface water rights from the Suches Lake, which together are sufficient to supply the needs of our Toquepala and Cuajone operating units.

 

In 2004, the Peruvian Congress enacted legislation imposing a royalty charge to be paid by mining companies in favor of the regional governments and communities where mining resources are located.  Under this law, we are subject to a 1% to 3% charge, based on sales, and calculated on the value of the concentrates produced at our Toquepala and Cuajone mines.  We made provisions of $65.5 million, $43.7 million and $53.9 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, for this charge.  These provisions are included in cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) in the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

Mexico

 

In Mexico we have approximately 375,045 hectares in concessions from the Mexican government for our exploration and exploitation activities as outlined in the table below.

 

 

 

Underground
Mines

 

La Caridad

 

Buenavista

 

Projects

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

(hectares)

 

 

 

 

 

Mine concessions

 

88,439

 

93,893

 

17,826

 

174,887

 

375,045

 

 

We believe that our Mexican concessions are in full force and in effect under applicable Mexican laws and that we are in compliance with all material terms and requirements applicable to these concessions.  Under Mexican law, mineral resources belong to the Mexican nation and a concession from the Mexican federal government is required to explore or mine mineral reserves.  Mining concessions have a 50-year term that can be renewed for another 50 years.  Holding fees for mining concessions can be from $0.4 to $8.8 per hectare depending on the beginning date of the mining concession.  Fees paid during 2010, 2009 and 2008 were approximately $2.9 million, $2.5 million and $2.5 million, respectively.  In addition, all of our operating units in Mexico have water concessions that are in full force and effect.  We generally own the land to which our Mexican concessions relate, although ownership is not required in order to explore or mine a concession.  We also own all of the processing facilities of our Mexican operations and the land on which they are constructed.

 

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Table of Contents

 

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS:

 

Every investor or potential investor in Southern Copper Corporation should carefully consider the following risk factors.

 

General Risks Relating to Our Business

 

Our financial performance is highly dependent on the price of copper and the other metals we produce.

 

Our financial performance is significantly affected by the market prices of the metals that we produce, particularly the market prices of copper, molybdenum, zinc and silver.  Historically, prices of the metals we produce have been subject to wide fluctuations and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control, including international economic and political conditions, levels of supply and demand, the availability and costs of substitutes, inventory levels maintained by users, actions of participants in the commodities markets and currency exchange rates.  In addition, the market prices of copper and certain other metals have on occasion been subject to rapid short-term changes.

 

During the last 15-year period the yearly average price of copper per pound on the COMEX ranged from a low $0.72 in 1999 and 2002, to a high $3.43 in 2010.  In 2010 the COMEX copper price increased from a quarterly low of $3.19 per pound in the second quarter to a quarterly high of $3.93 per pound in the fourth quarter and closed the year at $4.44 per pound.  The LME copper prices during these periods, while slightly different, closely paralleled the COMEX prices.  Molybdenum, zinc and silver during the same 15-year period showed average highs and lows as follows: molybdenum $2.35 per pound, low in 2001 and $31.99 per pound, high in 2005; zinc $0.35 per pound, low in 2002 and $1.49 per pound, high in 2006; and silver $4.36 per ounce, low in 2001 and $20.18 per ounce high in 2010.

 

We cannot predict whether metals prices will rise or fall in the future.  Future declines in metals prices and, in particular, copper or molybdenum prices, will have an adverse impact on our results of operations and financial condition, and we might, in very adverse market conditions, consider curtailing or modifying certain of our mining and processing operations.

 

Changes in the level of demand for our products could adversely affect our product sales.

 

Our revenue is dependent on the level of industrial and consumer demand for the concentrates and refined and semi-refined metal products we sell.  Changes in technology, industrial processes and consumer habits may affect the level of that demand to the extent that changes increase or decrease the need for our metal products.  A change in demand, including any change resulting from economic slow-downs or recessions, could impact our results of operations and financial condition.

 

Our actual reserves may not conform to our current estimates of our ore deposits and we depend on our ability to replenish ore reserves for our long-term viability.

 

There is a degree of uncertainty attributable to the calculation of reserves.  Until reserves are actually mined and processed, the quantity of ore and grades must be considered as estimates only.  The proven and probable ore reserves data included in this report are estimates prepared by us based on evaluation methods generally used in the mining industry.  We may be required in the future to revise our reserves estimates based on our actual production.  We cannot assure you that our actual

 

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reserves conform to geological, metallurgical or other expectations or that the estimated volume and grade of ore will be recovered.  Market prices of our metals, increased production costs, reduced recovery rates, short-term operating factors, royalty taxes and other factors may render proven and probable reserves uneconomic to exploit and may result in revisions of reserves data from time to time.  Reserves data are not indicative of future results of operations.  Our reserves are depleted as we mine.  We depend on our ability to replenish our ore reserves for our long-term viability.  We use several strategies to replenish and increase our ore reserves, including exploration and investment in properties located near our existing mine sites and investing in technology that could extend the life of a mine by allowing us to cost-effectively process ore types that were previously considered uneconomic.  Acquisitions may also contribute to increased ore reserves and we review potential acquisition opportunities on a regular basis.  However, we cannot assure you that we will be able to continue with our strategy to replenish reserves indefinitely.

 

Our business requires levels of capital expenditures which we may not be able to maintain.

 

Our business is capital intensive.  Specifically, the exploration and exploitation of copper and other metal reserves, mining, smelting and refining costs, the maintenance of machinery and equipment and compliance with laws and regulations require significant capital expenditures.  We must continue to invest capital to maintain or to increase the amount of copper reserves that we exploit and the amount of copper and other metals we produce.  We cannot assure you that we will be able to maintain our production levels to generate sufficient cash, or that we have access to sufficient financing to continue our exploration, exploitation and refining activities at or above present levels.

 

Restrictive covenants in the agreements governing our indebtedness and the indebtedness of our Minera Mexico subsidiary may restrict our ability to pursue our business strategies.

 

Our financing instruments and those of our Minera Mexico subsidiary include financial and other restrictive covenants that, among other things, limit our and Minera Mexico’s abilities to incur additional debt and sell assets.  If either we or our Minera Mexico subsidiary do not comply with these obligations, we could be in default under the applicable agreements which, if not addressed or waived, could require repayment of the indebtedness immediately.  Our Minera Mexico subsidiary is further limited by the terms of its outstanding notes, which also restrict the Company’s applicable incurrence of debt and liens.  In addition, future credit facilities may contain limitations on our incurrence of additional debt and liens, on our ability to dispose of assets, or on our ability to pay dividends to our common stock holders.

 

Applicable law restricts the payment of dividends from our Minera Mexico subsidiary to us.

 

Our subsidiary, Minera Mexico, is a Mexican company and, as such, may pay dividends only out of net income that has been approved by the shareholders.  Shareholders must also approve the actual dividend payment, after mandatory legal reserves have been created and losses for prior fiscal years have been satisfied.  As a result, these legal constraints may limit the ability of Minera Mexico to pay dividends to us, which in turn, may have an impact on our ability to pay stockholder dividends or to service debt.

 

Through 2010, our management set aside $1.8 billion of unremitted earnings of its Mexican subsidiary, Minera Mexico, as appropriated retained earnings.  It is our

 

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intention to indefinitely invest these funds in Mexico.  These amounts are earmarked for the Company’s Mexican expansion program.

 

Our operations are subject to risks, some of which are not insurable.

 

The business of mining, smelting and refining copper, zinc and other metals is subject to a number of risks and hazards, including industrial accidents, labor disputes, unusual or unexpected geological conditions, changes in the regulatory environment, environmental hazards and weather and other natural phenomena, including earthquakes.  Such occurrences could result in damage to, or destruction of, mining operations resulting in monetary losses and possible legal liability.  In particular, surface and underground mining and related processing activities present inherent risks of injury to personnel and damage to equipment.  We maintain insurance against many of these and other risks, which may not provide adequate coverage in certain circumstances.  Insurance against certain risks, including certain liabilities for environmental damage or hazards as a result of exploration and production, is not generally available to us or other companies within the mining industry.  Nevertheless recent environmental legal initiatives have considered future regulations regarding environmental damage insurance.  In case such regulations come into force, we will have to analyze the need to obtain such insurance.  We do not have, and do not intend to obtain, political risk insurance.  These or other uninsured events may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Deliveries under our copper sales agreements can be suspended or cancelled by our customers in certain cases.

 

Under our sales agreements, we or our customers may suspend or cancel delivery of copper during a period of force majeure.  Events of force majeure under these agreements include acts of nature, labor strikes, fires, floods, wars, transportation delays, government actions or other events that are beyond the control of the parties.  Any suspension or cancellation by our customers of deliveries under our sales contracts that are not replaced by deliveries under new contracts or sales on the spot market would reduce our cash flow and could adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

The copper mining industry is highly competitive.

 

We face competition from other copper mining and producing companies around the world.  We cannot assure you that competition from lower cost producers will not adversely affect us in the future.

 

In addition, mines have limited lives and, as a result, we must periodically seek to replace and expand our reserves by acquiring new properties.  Significant competition exists to acquire properties producing or capable of producing copper and other metals.

 

The mining industry has experienced significant consolidation in recent years, including consolidation among some of our main competitors, as a result of which an increased percentage of copper production is from companies that also produce other products and may, consequently, be more diversified than we are.  We cannot assure you that the result of current or further consolidation in the industry will not adversely affect us.

 

Potential changes to international trade agreements, trade concessions or other political and economic arrangements may benefit copper producers operating in countries other than Peru and Mexico, where our mining operations are currently located.  We cannot assure you that we will be able to compete on the basis of price

 

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or other factors with companies that in the future may benefit from favorable trading or other arrangements.

 

Interruptions of energy supply or increases in energy costs and other production costs may adversely affect our results of operations.

 

We require substantial amounts of fuel oil, electricity and other resources for our operations.  Fuel, gas and power costs constituted approximately 36% of our total production cost in 2010 and 2009.  We rely upon third parties for our supply of the energy resources consumed in our operations.  The prices for and availability of energy resources may be subject to change or curtailment, respectively, due to, among other things, new laws or regulations, imposition of new taxes or tariffs, interruptions in production by suppliers, worldwide price levels and market conditions.  In recent years the price of oil has risen dramatically due to a variety of factors.  Disruptions in energy supply or increases in costs of energy resources or increases of other production costs could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Shortages of water supply, critical parts, equipment and skilled labor may adversely affect our operations and development projects.

 

Our mining operations require significant quantities of water for mining, ore processing and related support facilities.  Although each operation currently has sufficient water rights to cover its operational demands, the loss of some or all water rights for any of our mines or operations, in whole or in part, or shortages of water to which we have rights could require us to curtail or shut down mining production and could prevent us from pursuing expansion opportunities.  Additionally, we have not yet secured adequate water rights to support all of our announced expansion projects, and our inability to secure those rights could prevent us from pursuing some of those opportunities.  In addition, future shortages of critical parts, equipment and skilled labor could adversely affect our operations and development projects.

 

Our results and financial condition are affected by global and local market conditions.

 

We are subject to the risks arising from adverse changes in domestic and global economic and political conditions.  Our industry is cyclical by nature and fluctuates with economic cycles, including the current global economic instability.

 

The weakness in the global economy has been marked by, among other adverse factors, lower levels of consumer and corporate confidence, decreased business investment and consumer spending, increased unemployment, reduced income and asset values in many areas, currency volatility and limited availability of credit and access to capital.

 

If the United States and the world-wide economic recovery continues to be weak or deteriorates or if Chinese economic growth weakens, it could have an impact on our business and our financial condition.  We cannot predict if the administrative and legislative actions taken in the United States and elsewhere in the world to address this situation will be successful in reducing the severity or duration of the economic instability.  The continuation or intensification of the slow global economic recovery and the sovereign debt crisis in Europe or elsewhere may prompt banks to limit or deny lending to us or to our customers, which may have an adverse effect on our liquidity and on our ability to carry out our announced capital investment programs.  Additionally, concerns over the slow recovery in the United States and elsewhere in the world may prompt our customers to slow down or reduce the purchase of our products.  We may experience longer sales cycles, difficulty in collecting sales

 

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proceeds, and lower prices for our products.  A change in the demand of our products could impact our results of operations and financial condition.  We cannot provide any assurance that any of these events will not have a material adverse effect on market conditions, prices of our securities, our ability to obtain financing, and our results of operations and financial condition.

 

Environmental, health and safety laws, regulatory response to climate change, and other regulations may increase our costs of doing business, restrict our operations or result in operational delays.

 

Our exploration, mining, milling, smelting and refining activities are subject to a number of Peruvian and Mexican laws and regulations, including environmental laws and regulations, as well as certain industry technical standards.  Additional matters subject to regulation include, but are not limited to, concession fees, transportation, production, water use and discharge, power use and generation, use and storage of explosives, surface rights, housing and other facilities for workers, reclamation, taxation, labor standards, mine safety and occupational health.

 

We are required to comply with occupational health and safety laws and regulations in Peru and Mexico where our operations are subject to periodic inspections by the relevant governmental authorities.  These laws and regulations govern, among others: health and safety work place conditions including with respect to high risk labor and the handling, storage and disposal of chemical and other hazardous substances.  We believe our operations are in compliance in all material respects with applicable health and safety laws and regulations in the countries in which we operate.  Compliance with these laws and regulations and new or existing regulations that may be applicable to us in the future could increase our operating costs and adversely affect our financial results of operations and cash flows.

 

We monitor occupational health and safety performance and compliance regularly through programs, reports and activities at our operations.  Accidents are reported to Mexican and Peruvian authorities as required.  In 2010, we had eight fatalities in Mexico, four Company employees and four contractor employees, also in Peru, we had two fatalities one company employee and one contractor employee.  The amounts paid to the Mexican and Peruvian authorities for reportable accidents did not have a material impact on our results.  In addition, in January 2011, there was a fatal accident at our Toquepala mine.  Under Mexican and Peruvian law penalties and fines for safety violations are generally monetary, but in certain cases may lead to the temporary or permanent shutdown of the affected facility or the suspension or revocation of permits or licenses.  In 2010, we were not subject to penalties or sanctions and we did not experience any shutdowns of our work areas.

 

Environmental regulations in Peru and Mexico have become increasingly stringent over the last decade and we have been required to dedicate more time and money to compliance and remediation activities.  Furthermore, Mexican authorities have become more rigorous and strict in enforcing Mexican environmental laws.  We expect additional laws and regulations will be enacted over time with respect to environmental matters.

 

On January 28, 2011, Article 180 of the Mexican Federal General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection was amended.  This amendment gives an individual or entity having a legitimate interest the ability to contest administrative acts, including environmental authorizations, permits or concessions granted, without the need to demonstrate the actual existence of harm to the environment, natural resources, flora, fauna or human health, because it will be sufficient to argue that the harm may be caused.

 

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As a result of the amendment, more legal actions supported or sponsored by non-governmental groups, interested in halting projects, and not necessarily in protecting the rights of affected communities may be filed against companies operating in all industrial sectors, including the mining sector.

 

Another initiative that has not entered into force, but is being analyzed by the Chamber of Deputies is the one related to amendments to the Civil Federal Procedures Code (“CFPC”).  This initiative consists of establishing three categories of collective actions, by means of which 30 or more people claiming injury derived from environmental, consumer protection, financial services and economic competition issues will be considered to be sufficient in order to have a legitimate interest to seek through a civil procedure restitution or economic compensation or suspension of the activities from which the alleged injury derived. The initiative is expected to be approved by the Chamber of Deputies this year and the related provisions to enter into force six months afterward.  If approved, the amendments to the CFPC may result in more litigation with plaintiffs seeking remedies, including suspension of the activities alleged to cause harm.

 

In 2003 and 2005, Peruvian environmental laws imposing closure and remediation obligations on the mining industry were enacted.  Additionally, future changes to environmental laws and regulations could increase the extent of reclamation and remediation work required to be performed by us.  Any such increases in future costs could materially impact the amounts charged to operations for reclamation and remediation.  We further discuss these obligations in our Note 11 “Asset Retirement Obligation” to our consolidated financial statements.  Moreover, our Mexican operations are also subject to the environmental agreement entered into by Mexico, the United States and Canada in connection with the North American Free Trade Agreement.  We believe our operations are in compliance with all environmental laws and regulations within the areas we operate.

 

Regulatory response to climate change, restrictions, caps, taxes, or other controls on emissions of greenhouse gasses, including on emissions from the combustion of carbon-based fuels, could significantly increase our operating costs.  Restrictions on emissions could also affect our customers.  A number of governments or governmental bodies have introduced or are contemplating regulatory changes in response to the potential impacts of climate change.  These regulatory initiatives will be either voluntary or mandatory and may impact our operations directly or through our suppliers or customers.

 

The potential physical impacts of climate change on our operations are highly uncertain, and would be particular to the geographic circumstances of our facilities.  These may include changes in rainfall patterns, water shortages, changing sea levels, changing storm patterns and intensities, and changing temperatures.  These effects may adversely impact the cost, production and financial performance of our operations.

 

The development of more stringent environmental protection programs in Peru and Mexico and in relevant trade agreements could impose constraints and additional costs on our operations and require us to make significant capital expenditures in the future.  We cannot assure you that future legislative, regulatory or trade developments will not have an adverse effect on our business, properties, operating results, financial condition or prospects.

 

Our metals exploration efforts are highly speculative in nature and may be unsuccessful.

 

Metals exploration is highly speculative in nature, involves many risks and is frequently unsuccessful.  Once mineralization is discovered, it may take a number of

 

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years from the initial phases of drilling before production is possible, during which time the economic feasibility of production may change.  Substantial expenditures are required to establish proven and probable ore reserves through drilling, to determine metallurgical processes to extract the metals from the ore and, in the case of new properties, to construct mining and processing facilities.  We cannot assure you that our exploration programs will result in the expansion or replacement of current production with new proven and probable ore reserves.

 

Development projects have no operating history upon which to base estimates of proven and probable ore reserves and estimates of future cash operating costs.  Estimates are, to a large extent, based upon the interpretation of geological data obtained from drill holes and other sampling techniques, and feasibility studies that derive estimates of cash operating costs based upon anticipated tonnage and grades of ore to be mined and processed, the configuration of the ore body, expected recovery rates of the mineral from the ore, comparable facility and equipment operating costs, anticipated climatic conditions and other factors.  As a result, actual cash operating costs and economic returns based upon development of proven and probable ore reserves may differ significantly from those originally estimated.  Moreover, significant decreases in actual or expected prices may mean reserves, once found, will be uneconomical to produce.

 

Our profits may be negatively affected by currency exchange rate fluctuations.

 

The U.S. dollar is our functional currency and our revenues are primarily denominated in U.S. dollars.  However, portions of our operating costs are denominated in Peruvian nuevos soles and Mexican pesos.  Accordingly, when inflation in Peru or Mexico increases without a corresponding devaluation of the nuevo sol or the Mexican peso our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.  To manage the volatility related to the risk of currency rate fluctuations, we may enter into forward exchange contracts.  We cannot assure you, however, that currency fluctuations will not have an impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our assets, earnings and cash flows are influenced by various currencies due to the geographic diversity of our sales and the countries in which we operate.  As some of our costs are incurred in currencies other than our functional currency, the U.S. dollar, fluctuations in currency exchange rates may have a significant impact on our financial results.  These costs principally include electricity, labor, maintenance, local contractors and fuel.  For the year ended December 31, 2010, a substantial portion of our costs were denominated in a currency other than U.S. dollars.  Operating costs are influenced by the currencies of the countries where our mines and processing plants are located and also by those currencies in which the costs of equipment and services are determined.  The Peruvian nuevo sol, the Mexican peso and the U.S. dollar are the currencies which most influence our costs.

 

Further, in the past there has been a strong correlation between copper prices and the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar.  A strengthening of the U.S. dollar may therefore be accompanied by lower copper prices, which would negatively affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

We may be adversely affected by challenges relating to slope stability.

 

Our open-pit mines get deeper as we mine them, presenting certain geotechnical challenges including the possibility of slope failure.  If we are required to decrease pit slope angles or provide additional road access to prevent such a failure, our stated reserves could be negatively affected.  Further, hydrological conditions relating to pit slopes, renewal of material displaced by slope failures and increased

 

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stripping requirements could also negatively affect our stated reserves.  We have taken actions in order to maintain slope stability, but we cannot assure you that we will not have to take additional action in the future or that our actions taken to date will be sufficient.  Unexpected failure or additional requirements to prevent slope failure may negatively affect our results of operations and financial condition, as well as have the effect of diminishing our stated ore reserves.

 

We may be adversely affected by labor disputes.

 

In the last several years we have experienced a number of strikes or other labor disruptions that have had an adverse impact on our operations and operating results.  As of December 31, 2010, unions represented approximately 69% of our workforce.  Currently, we have labor agreements in effect for all of our operations.

 

In June 2010, a work stoppage at our Buenavista mine (formerly named Cananea) was finally resolved after a period of three years.  The mine property is being rehabilitated and production is being restored.  Full production is expected by February 2011.

 

Additionally, our Taxco and San Martin mines have been on strike since July 2007.  It is expected that operations at these mines will remain suspended until these labor issues are resolved.

 

We cannot assure you when these strikes will be settled, or that in the future we will not experience strikes or other labor related work stoppages that could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our new mining or metal production projects may be subject to additional costs due to community actions and other factors.

 

Our exploration, mining, milling, smelting and refining activities are subject to Peruvian and Mexican laws and regulations, including environmental laws and regulations, as well as certain industry technical standards.  As in any other country, environmental regulations in Peru and Mexico have become increasingly stringent over the last decades.  In accordance with mining regulations in the countries where we operate, we have to submit an environmental impact assessment (“EIA”) for all our new mining projects or expansions of existing mining operations and/or facilities.  The EIA is then discussed at various open hearings with the local communities, where they have the opportunity to voice their opinion and/or concerns.  In Peru, the Ministry of Energy and Mines (“MINEM”) usually requires the mining companies to address the questions of the communities.  MINEM is the entity that approves the EIA and the execution of mining projects.

 

The Tia Maria project located in the Peruvian region of Arequipa, is expected to produce about 260 million pounds of SXEW copper cathodes per year.  The approved budget for the project is $934 million.  Through December 31, 2010, $432.5 million have been invested in this project.

 

In 2009, we submitted the EIA for the project to MINEM.  In April 2010, after social unrest in the Islay province of Arequipa that obstructed the public hearing for the EIA, Peruvian ministerial resolutions created a technical agency to analyze and respond to comments on the environmental impact of the Tia Maria project and temporarily suspended work at the project.  Because of the continued social unrest the technical agency never became operational.  Certain members of the local communities in the surrounding area of the Tia Maria project have opposed the project for various reasons, including for the purported use of underground water for the project alleging that it could cause a shortage of water supply for the farmers in the local communities and cause other potential

 

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impacts.  In connection with the EIA, we submitted to the government additional information, including the building of a desalinization plant to use sea water exclusively for the project.

 

On December 1, 2010, MINEM approved a communication plan with new options to use to inform the details of EIA to the local communities.  We completed the communication plan in January 2011, which included the opening of three information offices in the communities that would be mostly impacted by the project, four informative meetings with local communities’ members and media advertizing regarding the project in local newspapers, as well as on local television and radio stations.  On February 1, 2011, we filed a report with MINEM indicating full completion of the program.  The observations and comment period for the local communities’ members and other stakeholders, including environmentalist and non-governmental organizations, expires on March 2, 2011 and we expect to receive the EIA approval during the second quarter of 2011.

 

We are confident that we will continue with the Tia Maria project.  However, this project, or any other project which we may undertake in the future, may be subject to additional costs or delays due to actions by members of the local community or other factors.

 

We are controlled by Grupo Mexico, which exercises control over our affairs and policies and whose interests may be different from yours.

 

Grupo Mexico owns indirectly 80% of our capital stock.  Certain of our and Minera Mexico’s officers and directors are also directors and/or officers of Grupo Mexico and/or of its affiliates.  We cannot assure you that the interests of Grupo Mexico will not conflict with ours.

 

Grupo Mexico has the ability to determine the outcome of substantially all matters submitted for a vote to our stockholders and thus exercises control over our business policies and affairs, including the following:

 

·                  the composition of our Board of Directors and, as a result, any determinations of our Board with respect to our business direction and policy, including the appointment and removal of our officers;

·                  determinations with respect to mergers and other business combinations, including those that may result in a change of control;

·                  whether dividends are paid or other distributions are made and the amount of any dividends or other distributions;

·                  sales and dispositions of our assets; and

·                  the amount of debt financing that we incur.

 

Grupo Mexico reported that under its reorganization plan for Asarco, it had secured financing of $1.5 billion.  Currently $837.0 million is outstanding under the financing.  We cannot assure you that this increased financial obligation of our parent will not result in our parent corporation attempting to obtain increased dividends or other funding from us.

 

On July 22, 2010, we received a non-binding proposal from our parent company, AMC, offering to effect an all-stock business combination of Southern Copper and AMC, the parent company of Asarco, in which all stockholders of Southern Copper would receive 1.237 common shares of AMC in exchange for each share of SCC.  Under the proposal presented by AMC, the stock of AMC would be registered and listed on the New York, Mexican and Lima stock exchanges.

 

On August 10, 2010, we formed a special committee of independent directors to evaluate AMC’s proposal.  The special committee has engaged independent legal, financial and mining advisors to assist in this transaction.  The group is currently working on the

 

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evaluation of this proposal; however, there is not a set deadline for completion of the evaluation.

 

The proposed transaction is subject to risks.  Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: SCC’s ability to enter into definitive agreements with respect to the proposed transaction; the results of SCC’s due diligence review of Asarco; SCC’s ability to achieve the benefits contemplated by the proposed transaction; SCC’s ability to promptly and effectively integrate with the businesses of AMC and Asarco; the costs associated with the proposed transaction; the timing to consummate the proposed transaction; any necessary actions to obtain required regulatory approvals; the ability to obtain existing lender and other required third-party consents; increased costs; metal prices; unfavorable economic conditions; changes in the legal and regulatory environment; litigation; and unstable political conditions, civil unrest or other developments.

 

In addition, we have in the past engaged in, and expect to continue to engage in, transactions with Grupo Mexico and its other affiliates which are related party transactions and may present conflicts of interest.  For additional information regarding the share ownership of, and our relationships with, Grupo Mexico and its affiliates, see Note 20 “Related Party Transactions.”

 

We may not continue to pay a significant amount of our net income as cash dividends on our common stock in the future.

 

We have distributed a significant amount of our net income as dividends since 1996.  Our dividend practice is subject to change at the discretion of our Board of Directors at any time.  The amount that we pay in dividends is subject to a number of factors, including our results of operations, financial condition, cash requirements, tax considerations, future prospects, legal restrictions, contractual restrictions in credit agreements, limitations imposed by the government of Peru, Mexico or other countries where we have significant operations and other factors that our Board of Directors may deem relevant.  In light of our capital investment program and the current global economic conditions, it is possible that future dividend distributions will be reduced from the levels of recent years.

 

Risks Associated with Doing Business in Peru and Mexico

 

There is uncertainty as to the termination and renewal of our mining concessions.

 

Under the laws of Peru and Mexico, mineral resources belong to the state and government concessions are required in both countries to explore for or exploit mineral reserves.  In Peru, our mineral rights derive from concessions from the Peruvian Ministry of Energy and Mines for our exploration, exploitation, extraction and/or production operations.  In Mexico, our mineral rights derive from concessions granted, on a discretionary basis, by the Ministry of Economy, pursuant to the Mexican mining law and regulations thereunder.

 

Mining concessions in both Peru and Mexico may be terminated if the obligations of the concessionaire are not satisfied.  In Peru, we are obligated to pay certain fees for our mining concession.  In Mexico, we are obligated, among other things, to explore or exploit the relevant concession, to pay any relevant fees, to comply with all environmental and safety standards, to provide information to the Ministry of Economy and to allow inspections by the Ministry of Economy.  Any termination or unfavorable modification of the terms of one or more of our concessions, or failure to obtain renewals of such concessions subject to renewal or extensions, could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and prospects.

 

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Peruvian economic and political conditions may have an adverse impact on our business.

 

A significant part of our operations are conducted in Peru.  Accordingly, our business, financial condition or results of operations could be affected by changes in economic or other policies of the Peruvian government or other political, regulatory or economic developments in Peru.  During the past several decades, Peru has had a history of political instability that has included military coups and a succession of regimes with differing policies and programs.  Past governments have frequently intervened in the nation’s economy and social structure.  Among other actions, past governments have imposed controls on prices, exchange rates and local and foreign investment, as well as limitations on imports, have restricted the ability of companies to dismiss employees, have expropriated private sector assets (including mining companies) and have prohibited the remittance of profits to foreign investors.

 

For further discussion of contributions that the Company agreed to make to support the development of Peru and Peruvian legislation imposing royalty charges on mining companies, see “Regional Development Contribution” and “Royalty Charge” in Note 15 “Commitments and Contingencies” to our consolidated financial statements.

 

Terrorism in Peru was a risk in the 1980s and 1990s due to the presence of significant active terrorist groups.  However, in the past decade (2000s) terrorist activities have largely disappeared from Peru’s environment.

 

In the last 10 years Peru has had political and social stability.  The Peruvian government’s economic policies reduced inflation and the Peruvian economy has experienced significant growth in recent years.

 

In October 2010, Peru had regional and mayoral elections and in April 2011 Peru will elect a new president.

 

Because we have significant operations in Peru, we cannot provide any assurance that political developments and economic conditions in Peru and/or a resurgence of terrorist activity will not have a material adverse effect on market conditions, prices of our securities, our ability to obtain financing, and our results of operations and financial condition.

 

Mexican economic and political conditions, as well as drug-related violence, may have an adverse impact on our business.

 

The Mexican economy is highly sensitive to economic developments in the United States mainly because of its high level of exports to the United States market.  The global financial crisis, and the subsequent downturn in the United States economy, caused real gross domestic product in Mexico to fall 6.6% in 2009.  Mexico’s policy measures in response to the crisis and its prior economic performance have helped the economy begin a recovery.  Gross domestic product was about 5% in 2010 and is projected to be at least 4% in 2011.  Unless, new downside signals from the U.S. market or a significant increase in oil prices, which may endanger  economic growth in the world, copper prices should remain strong. Other  possible risks with apparently smaller consequences are increases in taxes on the mining sector or higher royalties. Like in many metal producing countries, the mining industry is perceived as a place where there is money to correct fiscal pressures.

 

On the political side, certain institutions are under significant stress, in particular police departments at the federal and local levels and the Army.  Mexican drug and organized crime problems stem from the successful blockage of the Caribbean Sea and the change in strategy by South American and U.S. criminal organizations to use Mexico as a stepping stone to the U.S. market. Corruption and drug-related violence grew among police forces, while at the same time well equipped Special Forces captured more than 18 kingpins of the drug cartels, thus sending traditional arrangements in disarray. The result has been an increase in violence among drug aspiring cartels in some states of Mexico. Naturally, other forms of organized crime began to flourish in the shadow of the larger cartel fights. That type of crime affects, in particular transportation of minerals and finished products which affect a small part of our production, however we do not expect it to constitute a significant risk. However, it should be mentioned as a potential risk.

 

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Because we have significant operations in Mexico, we cannot provide any assurance that political developments and economic conditions, as well as drug-related violence, in Mexico will not have a material adverse effect on market conditions, prices of our securities, our ability to obtain financing, and our results of operations and financial condition.

 

Peruvian inflation reduced economic growth and fluctuations in the nuevo sol exchange rate may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Over the past several years, Peru has experienced one of its best economic periods.  In Peru economic conditions have improved significantly in the last 7 years.  Inflation in 2009 was ok, the value of the neuvo sol  has appreciated against the U.S. dollar, 8.0% in 2009 and 2.8% in 2010.  Our revenues are primarily denominated in U.S. dollars and our operating expenses are partly denominated in U.S. dollars.  If inflation in Peru were to increase without a corresponding devaluation of the nuevo sol relative to the U.S. dollar, our financial position and results of operations, and the market price of our Common Stock, could be affected.  The Peruvian government’s economic policy reduced inflation and the Peruvian economy has experienced significant growth in recent years, we do not expect high inflation from its current level or that such growth will continue in the future at similar rates or at all.

 

Among the economic circumstances that could lead to a devaluation of the nuevo sol is the decline of Peruvian foreign reserves to inadequate levels.  However, Peru’s foreign reserves at December 31, 2010, were a record  $44.1 billion as compared with $33.1 billion and $31.2 billion at December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  We cannot assure you of similar positions in the future but there doesn’t seem to be an adverse outlook for 2011 or 2012.

 

Mexican inflation, restrictive exchange control policies and fluctuations in the peso exchange rate may adversely affect our financial condition and results of operations.

 

Although all of our Mexican operations’ sales of metals are priced and invoiced in U.S. dollars, a substantial portion of our Mexican operations’ cost of sales are denominated in pesos.  Accordingly, when inflation in Mexico increases without a corresponding devaluation of the peso, the net income generated by our Mexican operations is in adversely affected.  The annual inflation rate in Mexico was 4.4% in 2010, 3.6% in 2009 and 6.5% in 2008.  The Bank of Mexico has publicly announced a target of 3% inflation for 2011.

 

At the same time, the peso has been subject in the past to significant devaluation, which may not have been proportionate to the inflation rate and may not be proportionate to the inflation rate in the future.  The value of the peso increased by 5.4% and 3.5% in 2010 and 2009, respectively, and decreased by 24.5% in 2008.

 

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While the Mexican government does not currently restrict the ability of Mexican companies or individuals to convert pesos into dollars or others currencies, in the future, we do not expect the Mexican government to impose any restriction or exchange control policies, it is an area we closely monitor, but is not a concern at this time.  We cannot assure you the Mexican government will maintain its current policies with regard to the peso or that the peso’s value will not fluctuate significantly in the future.  The imposition of exchange control policies could impair Minera Mexico’s ability to obtain imported goods and to meet its U.S. dollar-denominated obligations and could have an adverse effect on our business and financial condition.

 

Developments in other emerging market countries and in the United States may adversely affect the prices of our common stock and our debt securities.

 

The market value of securities of companies with significant operations in Peru and Mexico is, to varying degrees, affected by economic and market conditions in other emerging market countries.  Although economic conditions in such countries may differ significantly from economic conditions in Peru or Mexico, as the case may be, investors’ reactions to developments in any of these other countries may have an adverse effect on the market value or trading price of the securities, including debt securities, of issuers that have significant operations in Peru or Mexico.

 

In addition, in recent years economic conditions in Mexico have increasingly become correlated to U.S. economic conditions.  Therefore, adverse economic conditions in the United States could also have a significant adverse effect on Mexican economic conditions, including the price of our common stock or debt securities.

 

We cannot assure you that the market value or trading prices of our common stock and debt securities, will not be adversely affected by events in the United States or elsewhere, including in emerging market countries.

 

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

 

None

 

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

 

We were incorporated in Delaware in 1952.  Our corporate offices in the United States are located at 11811 North Tatum Blvd. Suite 2500, Phoenix, Arizona 85028.  Our Phoenix telephone number is (602) 494-5328.  Our corporate offices in Mexico are located in Mexico City and our corporate offices in Peru are located in Lima.  Our website is www.southerncoppercorp.com.  We believe that our existing properties are in good condition and suitable for the conduct of our business.

 

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS

 

The following maps set forth the locations of our principal mines, smelting facilities and refineries.  We operate open-pit copper mines in the southern part of Peru — at Toquepala and Cuajone — and in Mexico, principally at La Caridad and Buenavista.  We also operate five underground mines that produce zinc, copper, silver and gold, as well as a coal mine and a coke oven.

 

 

EXTRACTION, SMELTING AND REFINING PROCESSES

 

Our operations include open-pit and underground mining, concentrating, copper smelting, copper refining, copper rod production, solvent extraction/electrowinning (SXEW), zinc refining, sulfuric acid production, molybdenum concentrate production and silver and gold refining.  The extraction and production process are summarized below.

 

OPEN-PIT MINING

 

In an open-pit mine, the production process begins at the mine pit, where waste rock, leaching ore and copper ore are drilled and blasted and then loaded onto diesel-electric

 

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trucks by electric shovels.  Waste is hauled to dump areas and leaching ore is hauled to leaching dumps.  The ore to be milled is transported to the primary crushers.

 

UNDERGROUND MINING

 

In an underground mine, the production process begins at the stopes, where copper, zinc and lead veins are drilled and blasted and the ore is hauled to the underground crusher station.  The crushed ore is then hoisted to the surface for processing.

 

CONCENTRATING

 

The copper ore with a copper grade over 0.4% from the primary crusher or the copper, zinc and lead-bearing ore from the underground mines is transported to a concentrator plant where gyratory crushers break the ore into sizes no larger than three-quarter of an inch.  The ore is then sent to a mill section where it is ground to the consistency of fine powder.  The finely ground ore is mixed with water and chemical reagents and pumped as a slurry to the flotation separator where it is mixed with certain chemicals.  In the flotation separator, reagent solutions and air pumped into the flotation cells cause the minerals to separate from the waste rock and bubble to the surface where they are collected and dried.

 

If the bulk concentrated copper contains molybdenum it is first processed in a molybdenum plant as described below under “Molybdenum Production.”

 

COPPER SMELTING

 

Copper concentrates are transported to a smelter, where they are smelted using a furnace, converter and anode furnace to produce either blister copper (which is in the form of cakes with air pockets) or copper anodes (which are cleaned of air pockets).  At the smelter, the concentrates are mixed with flux (a chemical substance intentionally included for high temperature processing) and then sent to reverberatory furnaces producing copper matte and slag (a mixture of iron and other impurities).  Copper matte contains approximately 65% copper.  Copper matte is then sent to the converters, where the material is oxidized in two steps: (i) the iron sulfides in the matte are oxidized with silica, producing slag that is returned to the reverberatory furnaces, and (ii) the copper contained in the matte sulfides is then oxidized to produce copper that, after casting, is called blister copper, containing approximately 98% to 99% copper, or anodes, containing approximately 99.7% copper.  Some of the blister and anode production is sold to customers and the remainder is sent to the refinery.

 

COPPER REFINING

 

Anodes are suspended in tanks containing sulfuric acid and copper sulfate.  A weak electrical current is passed through the anodes and chemical solution and the dissolved copper is deposited on very thin starting sheets to produce copper cathodes containing approximately 99.99% copper.  During this process, silver, gold and other metals (for example, palladium, platinum and selenium), along with other impurities, settle on the bottom of the tank (anodic slime).  This anodic slime is processed at a precious metal plant where selenium, silver and gold are recovered.

 

COPPER ROD PLANT

 

To produce copper rod, copper cathodes are first smelted in a furnace and then dosified in a casting machine.  The dosified copper is then extruded and passed through a cooling system that begins solidification of copper into a 60´50 millimeter copper bar.  The resulting copper bar is gradually stretched in a rolling mill to achieve the desired diameter.  The rolled bar is then cooled and sprayed with wax as a preservation agent and collected into a rod coil that is compacted and sent to market.

 

SOLVENT EXTRACTION/ELECTROWINNING (SXEW)

 

An alternative to the conventional concentrator/smelter/refinery process is the leaching and SXEW process.  During the SXEW process, certain types of low-grade ore with a copper

 

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grade under 0.4% are leached with sulfuric acid to allow copper content recovery.  The acid and copper solution is then agitated with a solvent that contains chemical additives that attract copper ions.  As the solvent is lighter than water, it floats to the surface carrying with it the copper content.  The solvent is then separated using an acid solution, freeing the copper.  The acid solution containing the copper is then moved to electrolytic extraction tanks to produce copper cathodes.  Refined copper can be produced more economically (though over a longer period) and from lower grade ore using the SXEW process instead of the traditional concentrating, smelting and refining process.

 

MOLYBDENUM PRODUCTION

 

Molybdenum is recovered from copper-molybdenum concentrates produced at the concentrator.  The copper-molybdenum concentrate is first treated with a thickener until it becomes slurry with 60% solids.  The slurry is then agitated in a chemical and water solution and pumped to the flotation separator.  The separator creates a froth that carries molybdenum to the surface but not the copper mineral (which is later filtered to produce copper concentrates containing approximately 27% copper).  The molybdenum froth is skimmed off, filtered and dried to produce molybdenum concentrates of approximately 58% contained molybdenum.

 

ZINC REFINING

 

Metallic zinc is produced through electrolysis using zinc concentrates and zinc oxides.  Sulfur is eliminated from the concentrates by roasting and the zinc oxide is dissolved in sulfuric acid solution to eliminate solid impurities.  The purified zinc sulfide solution is treated by electrolysis to produce refined zinc and to separate silver and gold, which are recovered as concentrates.

 

SULFURIC ACID PRODUCTION

 

Sulfur dioxide gases are produced in the copper smelting and zinc roasting processes.  As a part of our environmental preservation program, we treat the sulfur dioxide emissions at two of our Mexican plants and at Peruvian processing facilities to produce sulfuric acid, some of which is, in turn, used for the copper leaching process, with the rest sold to mining and fertilizer companies located principally in Mexico, Peru, United States, Chile and other countries.

 

SILVER AND GOLD REFINING

 

Silver and gold are recovered from copper, zinc and lead concentrates in the smelters and refineries, and from slimes through electrolytic refining.

 

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KEY PRODUCTION CAPACITY DATA:

 

All production facilities are owned by us.  The following table sets forth as of December 31, 2010, the locations of production facilities by reportable segment, the processes used, as well as the key production and capacity data for each location:

 

Facility Name

 

Location

 

Process

 

Nominal
Capacity (1)

 

2010
Production

 

2010
Capacity
Use

PERUVIAN OPEN-PIT UNIT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mining Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cuajone open-pit mine

 

Cuajone (Peru)

 

Copper ore milling and recovery, copper and molybdenum concentrate production

 

87.0 ktpd - ore milled

 

87.0 ktpd

 

100.0%

Toquepala open-pit mine

 

Toquepala (Peru)

 

Copper ore milling and recovery, copper and molybdenum concentrate production

 

60.0 ktpd - ore milled

 

60.6 ktpd

 

101.1%

Toquepala SXEW plant

 

Toquepala (Peru)

 

Leaching, solvent extraction and cathode electrowinning

 

56.0 ktpy - refined

 

37.9 ktpy

 

67.7%

Processing Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ilo copper smelter

 

Ilo (Peru)

 

Copper smelting, blister, anodes production

 

1,200.0 ktpy - concentrate feed

 

997.9 ktpy

 

83.2%

Ilo copper refinery

 

Ilo (Peru)

 

Copper refining

 

280 ktpy - refined cathodes

 

255.5 ktpy

 

91.3%

Ilo acid plants

 

Ilo (Peru)

 

Sulfuric acid

 

1,050 ktpy - sulfuric acid

 

963.0 ktpy

 

91.7%

Ilo precious metals refinery

 

Ilo (Peru)

 

Slime recovery & processing, gold & silver refining

 

320 tpy

 

382.3 tpy

 

119.5%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MEXICAN OPEN-PIT UNIT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mining Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buenavista Open-pit mine (2)

 

Sonora (Mexico)

 

Copper ore milling & recovery, copper concentrate production

 

76.7 ktpd - milling

 

-

 

-

Buenavista SXEW I, II plants (2)

 

Sonora (Mexico)

 

Leaching, solvent extraction & refined cathode electrowinning

 

54.8 ktpy (combined)

 

20.7 ktpd

 

37.8

La Caridad open-pit mine

 

Sonora (Mexico)

 

Copper ore milling & recovery, copper & molybdenum concentrate production

 

90.0 ktpd - milling

 

90.9 ktpd

 

101.0%

La Caridad SXEW plant

 

Sonora (Mexico)

 

Leaching, solvent extraction & cathode electrowinning

 

21.9 ktpy - refined

 

22.9 ktpy

 

104.6%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Processing Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

La Caridad copper smelter (3)

 

Sonora (Mexico)

 

Concentrate smelting, anode production

 

1,000 ktpy - concentrate feed

 

433.7 ktpy

 

43.4%

La Caridad copper refinery (3)

 

Sonora (Mexico)

 

Copper refining

 

300 ktpy copper cathode

 

84.6 ktpy

 

28.2%

La Caridad copper rod plant (3)

 

Sonora (Mexico)

 

Copper rod production

 

150 ktpy copper rod

 

57.3 ktpy

 

38.2%

La Caridad

 

Sonora

 

Slime recovery &

 

2.8 ktpy - slime

 

0.6 ktpy

 

21.4%

 

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precious metals refinery (3)

 

(Mexico)

 

processing, gold & silver refining

 

 

 

 

 

 

La Caridad Sulfuric acid plant (3)

 

Sonora (Mexico)

 

Sulfuric acid

 

1,565.5 ktpy - sulfuric acid

 

441.5 ktpy

 

28.2%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IMMSA UNIT

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Underground mines

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Charcas

 

San Luis Potosi (Mexico)

 

Copper, zinc, lead milling, recovery & concentrate production

 

1,460 ktpy - ore milled

 

1,165.3 ktpy

 

79.8%

San Martin (4)

 

Zacatecas (Mexico)

 

Lead, zinc, copper & silver mining, milling recovery & concentrate production

 

1,606 ktpy - ore milled

 

-

 

-

Santa Barbara

 

Chihuahua (Mexico)

 

Lead, copper and zinc mining & concentrates production

 

2,190 ktpy - ore milled

 

1,578.3 ktpy

 

72.1%

Santa Eulalia

 

Chihuahua (Mexico)

 

Lead & zinc mining and milling recovery & concentrate production

 

547.5 ktpy - ore milled

 

150.3 ktpy

 

27.5%

Taxco (4)

 

Guerrero (Mexico)

 

Lead, zinc silver & gold mining recovery & concentrate production

 

730 ktpy - ore milled

 

-

 

-

Nueva Rosita coal & coke complex(5)

 

Coahuila (Mexico)

 

Clean coal production

 

900 ktpy clean coal

 

240.5 ktpy

 

26.7%

 

 

 

 

 

 

100 ktpy coke

 

72.9 ktpy

 

70.1%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Processing Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

San Luis Potosi copper smelter (6)

 

San Luis Potosi (Mexico)

 

Concentrate smelting, blíster production

 

230 ktpy concentrate feed

 

33.1 ktpy

 

14.3%

 

 

 

 

 

 

24.0 Ktpy blíster production

 

0.9 ktpy

 

3.8%

San Luis Potosi zinc refinery

 

San Luis Potosi (Mexico)

 

Zinc concentrates refining

 

105.0 ktpy zinc cathode

 

92.1 ktpy

 

90.5%

San Luis Potosi sulfuric acid plant

 

San Luis Potosi (Mexico)

 

Sulfuric acid

 

180.0 ktpy sulfuric acid

 

166.7 ktpy

 

92.6%

 


ktpd = thousands of tons per day

ktpy = thousands of tons per year

Tpy  = tons per year

 

(1)                      Our estimates of actual capacity contemplating normal operating conditions with allowance for normal downtime for repairs and maintenance and based on the average metal content for the relevant period.

(2)                      During 2010, the Buenavista facilities were on strike into the second half of the year.

(3)                      The 2010 capacity utilization at the La Caridad processing facilities was reduced by the lack of materials from the Buenavista mine, which was on strike.

(4)                      During 2010, there was no production at the Taxco and San Martin mines due to strikes.

(5)                      As of December 31, 2010, the coal reserves for the Nueva Rosita coal plant were 100.7 million tons with average sulfur content of 1.1% and a BTU content of 8,503 per pound.

(6)                      In March 2010, the San Luis Potosi copper smelter was closed. Since then copper concentrates are sent to La Caridad copper smelter for processing.

 

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PROPERTY BOOK VALUE

 

At December 31, 2010, net book values of property are as follows (in millions):

 

Peruvian operations:

 

 

 

Cuajone

 

$

413.1

 

Toquepala

 

586.7

 

Tia Maria project

 

432.5

 

Ilo and other support facilities

 

681.7

 

Property in progress

 

50.7

 

Total

 

$

2,164.7

 

 

 

 

 

Mexican open-pit operations:

 

 

 

Buenavista

 

$

541.2

 

La Caridad

 

1,006.6

 

Mexicana del Arco

 

31.5

 

Property in progress and other facilities

 

4.2

 

Total

 

$

1,583.5

 

 

 

 

 

Mexican IMMSA unit:

 

 

 

San Luis Potosi

 

$

35.8

 

Zinc electrolytic refinery

 

69.6

 

Charcas

 

21.1

 

San Martin

 

32.4

 

Santa Barbara

 

69.7

 

Taxco

 

6.0

 

Santa Eulalia

 

23.1

 

Nueva Rosita

 

20.5

 

Property in progress and other facilities

 

18.1

 

Total

 

$

296.3

 

 

 

 

 

Mexican administrative offices

 

$

50.5

 

 

 

 

 

Total Southern Copper Corporation

 

$

4,095.0

 

 

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SUMMARY OPERATING DATA

 

The following table sets out certain operating data underlying our financial and operating information for each of the periods indicated.

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

COPPER (thousand pounds):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mined

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peru open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Toquepala

 

289,947

 

280,263

 

251,651

 

Cuajone

 

363,692

 

416,562

 

432,249

 

SXEW Toquepala

 

83,640

 

83,691

 

85,537

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexico open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

La Caridad

 

209,154

 

225,975

 

213,691

 

Buenavista

 

 

 

13,591

 

SXEW La Caridad

 

50,403

 

51,182

 

48,422

 

SXEW Buenavista

 

45,626

 

 

20,811

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IMMSA unit

 

12,507

 

12,396

 

11,949

 

Total Mined

 

1,054,969

 

1,070,069

 

1,077,901

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Smelted

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peru open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blister Ilo

 

 

19,270

 

 

Anodes Ilo

 

688,894

 

742,475

 

675,903

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexico open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anodes La Caridad

 

256,913

 

307,880

 

379,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IMMSA unit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Blister IMMSA

 

1,958

 

43,903

 

41,881

 

Total Smelted

 

947,765

 

1,113,528

 

1,096,784

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Refined

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peru Open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cathodes Ilo

 

563,281

 

578,096

 

548,381

 

SXEW Toquepala

 

83,640

 

83,690

 

88,511

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexico Open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cathodes La Caridad

 

186,563

 

258,233

 

309,366

 

SXEW La Caridad

 

50,404

 

51,182

 

48,422

 

SXEW Buenavista

 

45,626

 

 

20,811

 

Total Refined

 

929,514

 

971,201

 

1,015,491

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rod Mexico Open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

La Caridad

 

126,246

 

132,435

 

168,172

 

Total Rod

 

126,246

 

132,435

 

168,172

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SILVER (thousand ounces)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mined

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peru Open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Toquepala

 

1,801

 

1,788

 

1,591

 

Cuajone

 

2,451

 

2,584

 

2,482

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexico Open-pit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

La Caridad

 

1,845

 

2,052

 

1,796

 

Buenavista

 

 

 

81

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IMMSA unit

 

6,549

 

6,778

 

6,366

 

Total Mined

 

12,646

 

13,202

 

12,316

 

 

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Refined

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peru Open-pit — Ilo

 

3,466

 

3,270

 

2,971

 

Mexico Open-pit — La Caridad

 

6,097

 

6,505

 

4,386

 

IMMSA unit

 

3,680

 

3,314

 

3,484

 

Total Refined

 

13,243

 

13,089

 

10,841

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MOLYBDENUM (thousand pounds)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mined

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Toquepala

 

10,644

 

7,932

 

10,289

 

Cuajone

 

11,594

 

11,669

 

9,793

 

La Caridad

 

22,998

 

21,597

 

16,052

 

Total Mined

 

45,236

 

41,198

 

36,134

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ZINC (thousand pounds)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mined IMMSA

 

218,685

 

243,456

 

235,718

 

Refined IMMSA

 

209,598

 

217,570

 

210,365

 

 

SLOPE STABILITY:

 

Peruvian Operations

 

The Toquepala and Cuajone pits are approximately 825 meters and 800 meters deep, respectively, under the present mine plan configuration both pits will reach a depth of 1,200 meters.  The deepening pit presents us with a number of geotechnical challenges.  Perhaps the foremost concern is the possibility of slope failure, a possibility that all open-pit mines face.  In order to maintain slope stability, in the past we have decreased pit slope angles, installed additional or duplicate haul road access, and increased stripping requirements.  We have also responded to hydrological conditions and removed material displaced by a slope failure.  There is no assurance that we will not have to take these or other actions in the future, any of which may negatively affect our results of operations and financial condition, as well as have the effect of diminishing our stated ore reserves.  To meet the geotechnical challenges relating to slope stability of the open-pit mines, we have taken the following steps:

 

In the late 1990’s we hosted round table meetings in Vancouver, B.C. with a group of recognized slope stability and open-pit mining specialists.  The agenda for these meetings was principally a review of pit design for mines with greater than 700 meter depth.  The discussions included practices for monitoring, data collection and blasting processes.

 

Based on the concepts defined at the Vancouver meetings, we initiated slope stability studies to define the mining of reserves by optimum design.  These studies were performed by outside consultants and included slope stability appraisals, evaluation of the numerical modeling, slope performance and inter-ramp angle design and evaluation of hydrological conditions.

 

The studies were completed in 2000 and we believe we implemented the study recommendations.  One of the major changes implemented was slope angle reduction at both mines, Toquepala by an average of five degrees and Cuajone by an average of seven degrees.  Although this increased the waste included in the mineable reserve calculation, it also improved the stability of the pits.

 

In the Toquepala mine in 2007 we installed 20 meter wide geotechnical berms every 10 benches.  We believe this will further strengthen the stability of the Toquepala pit.

 

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Since 1998, a wall depressurization program has been in place in both pits.  This consists of a horizontal drilling program, which improves drainage thereby reducing saturation and increasing wall stability.  Additionally, a new blasting control program was put in place, implementing vibration monitoring and blasting designs of low punctual energy.  Also a new slope monitoring system was implemented using reflection prisms, deformation inclinometers and piezometers for water level control, as well as real-time robotic monitoring equipment.

 

In 2010 a program of oriented and conventional geotechnical drilling was executed at the Toquepala mine, totaling 2,200 meters.  At the Cuajone mine, the geotechnical drilling program totaled 1,373 meters.

 

To increase the possibility of mining in the event of a slide, we have provided for two ramps of extraction for each open-pit mine.

 

While these measures cannot guarantee that a slope failure will not occur, we believe that our mining practices are sound and that the steps taken and the ongoing reviews performed are a prudent methodology for open-pit mining.

 

Mexican operations

 

In 2004, our 15-year mine plan study for the La Caridad mine was awarded to an independent consulting firm to conduct a geotechnical evaluation.  The purpose of the plan was to develop a program of optimum bench design and inter-ramp slope angles for the open-pit.  A number of recommendations and observations were presented by the consultants.  These included a recommendation of a maximum average bench face angle of 72 degrees.  Additionally, single benching was recommended for the upper sections of the west, south and east walls of the main pit.  Likewise, double benching was recommended for the lower levels of the main pit and single benching for the upper slope segments that consist of either alluvial material, mine waste dumps or mineralized stockpile material.  Alternatively, slopes in these types of materials, may be designed with an overall 37 degree slope.  The geoestructural and geotechnical paramenters recommended were applied in the pit design for the new life of the mine plan for La Caridad mine prepared in 2010.  This mine plan replaced the 15-year mine plan prepared in 2004. However, since final pit limits have not been yet established at La Caridad, all current pit walls are effectively working slopes.  Geostructural and geotechnical data collected at the open-pit mine from cell-mapping and oriented-core drilling databases provided the basis for the geotechnical evaluation and recommendations.  We are also continuing collecting new information related to geotechnical data from the latest drilling in 2010.

 

A geotechnical evaluation of design slope for the 15-year pit plan at the Buenavista mine, was also prepared by an independent mine consulting firm.  This evaluation included the determination of optimum pit slope design angles and bench design parameters for the proposed mine plan.  The objective of the study was: 1) to determine optimum interramp slope angles and bench design parameters for the 15-year plan and 2) to identify and analyze any potential major instability that could adversely impact mine operation.

 

The following recommendations were made for the Buenavista mine: an interramp slope design angles for the 15-year pit plan, for all of the 21 design sectors, defined on a rock-fabric-based catch bench analysis, using double bench, can range from 48° and 55°, and the interramp slope angles are based on geometries that resulted from the backbreak analysis using 80% reliability of achieving the required 7.5 meter catch bench width for a single bench configuration and 10.6 meter catch bench width for a double bench configuration.  Preliminary observations suggest the 15-year pit walls

 

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may be relative free-draining, the backbreak analysis assumed depressurized conditions of mine benches, and the interramp stability analysis were performed for both, saturated and depressurized conditions.

 

A pit dewatering/depressurization plan for the Buenavista mine was also recommended to address the issues of open pit drainage, dewatering plan and future slope depressurization.  Phase I of the geohydrological study was completed by an independent consultant.  The analysis included a preliminary assessment and work plan implementations.  Continuation of the study in 2011, will include further drilling of monitoring wells in the vicinity of the open pit, as well as the location of water extraction wells to continue with a normal mining operation.

 

METAL PRODUCTION BY SEGMENTS

 

Set forth below are descriptions of the operations and other information relating to the operations included in each of our three segments.

 

PERUVIAN OPERATIONS

 

Our Peruvian segment operations include the Cuajone and Toquepala mine complexes and the smelting and refining plants, industrial railroad which links Ilo, Toquepala and Cuajone and the port facilities.

 

Following is a map indicating the approximate location of, and access to, our Cuajone and Toquepala mine complexes, as well as our Ilo processing facilities:

 

 

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Cuajone

 

Our Cuajone operations consist of an open-pit copper mine and a concentrator located in southern Peru, 30 kilometers from the city of Moquegua and 840 kilometers from Lima.  Access to the Cuajone property is by plane from Lima to Tacna (1:20 hours) and then by highway to Moquegua and Cuajone (3:30 hours).  The concentrator has a milling capacity of 87,000 tons per day.  Overburden removal commenced in 1970 and ore production commenced in 1976.  Our Cuajone operations utilize a conventional open-pit mining method to collect copper ore for further processing at the concentrator.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our Cuajone operations:

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Mine annual operating days

 

 

365

 

365

 

366

 

Total material mined

(kt)

 

126,144

 

117,939

 

118,054

 

Total ore mined

(kt)

 

31,461

 

32,030

 

30,217

 

Copper grade

(%)

 

0.598

 

0.677

 

0.751

 

Molybdenum grade

(%)

 

0.022

 

0.023

 

0.022

 

Leach material mined (1)

(kt)

 

10

 

11

 

 

Leach material grade

(%)

 

0.519

 

0.515

 

 

Stripping ratio

(x)

 

3.01

 

2.68

 

2.91

 

Total material milled

(kt)

 

31,419

 

32,049

 

30,250

 

Copper recovery

(%)

 

87.73

 

87.06

 

86.38

 

Molybdenum recovery

(%)

 

76.78

 

72.5

 

66.2

 

Copper concentrate

(kt)

 

620.7

 

718.9

 

759.1

 

Molybdenum concentrate

(kt)

 

9.7

 

9.6

 

8.1

 

Copper concentrates average grade

(%)

 

26.58

 

26.28

 

25.83

 

Molybdenum concentrate average grade

(%)

 

54.09

 

55.06

 

54.89

 

Copper in concentrate

(kt)

 

165.0

 

188.95

 

196.1

 

Molybdenum in concentrate

(kt)

 

5.3

 

5.3

 

4.4

 

 


Key:        kt = thousand tons

x = ratio obtained dividing waste plus leachable material by ore mined

(1) No oxide material was mined in 2008.

Copper and molybdenum grades are referred to as total copper grade and total molybdenum grade, respectively.

 

Major Cuajone mine equipment includes fifteen 290-ton capacity trucks, twenty 218-ton capacity trucks and seven 231-ton capacity trucks, three 56-cubic yard capacity shovels, one 73-cubic yard shovel, one 42-cubic yard shovel, one 33-cubic yard capacity front loader, five electric drills and one diesel drill for pre-splitting.  Auxiliary equipment: seven wheel bulldozers, seven Caterpillar bulldozers, two 988 CAT front loaders, one 966 CAT front loader and three motorgraders.  We continuously improve and renovate our equipment.

 

Geology

 

The Cuajone porphyry copper deposit is located on the western slopes of Cordillera Occidental, in the southern-most Andes Mountains of Peru.  The deposit is part of a mineral district that contains two additional known deposits, Toquepala and Quellaveco.  The copper mineralization at Cuajone is typical of porphyry copper deposits.

 

The Cuajone deposit is located approximately 28 kilometers from the Toquepala deposit and is part of the Toquepala Group dated 60 to 100 million years (Upper Cretaceous to Lower Tertiary).  The Cuajone lithology includes volcanic rocks from Cretaceous to

 

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Quaternary.  There are 32 rock types including, pre-mineral rocks, basaltic andesite, porphyritic rhyolite, Toquepala dolerite and intrusive rocks, including diorite, porphyritic latite, breccias and dikes.  In addition, the following post-mineral rocks are present, the Huaylillas formation which appears in the south-southeast side of the deposit and has been formed by conglomerates, tuffs, traquites and agglomerates.  These formations date 17 to 23 million years and are found in the Toquepala Group as discordance.  The Chuntacala formation which dates 9 to 14 million years and is formed by conglomerates, flows, tuffs and agglomerates placed gradually in some cases and in discordance in others.  Also Quaternary deposits are found in the rivers, creeks and hills.  The mineralogy is simple with regular grade distribution and vertically funnel-shaped.  Ore minerals include chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), chalcosine (Cu2S) and molybdenite (MoS2) with occasional galena, tetraedrite and enargite as non economical ore.

 

Mine exploration

 

Exploration activities during the drill campaign in 2010 are as follows:

 

Studies

 

Meters

 

Holes

 

Notes

 

Infill drilling

 

3,134

 

29

 

To obtain additional information to improve confidence in our block model.

 

Geotechnical holes

 

1,373

 

7

 

To improve geotechnical information

 

Total

 

4,507

 

36

 

 

 

 

Concentrator

 

Our Cuajone operations use state of the art computer monitoring systems at the concentrator, the crushing plant and the flotation circuit in order to coordinate inflows and optimize operations.  Material with a copper grade over 0.40% is loaded onto rail cars and sent to the milling circuit, where giant rotating crushers reduce the size of the rocks to approximately one-half of an inch.  The ore is then sent to the ball mills, which grind it to the consistency of fine powder.  The finely ground powder is agitated in a water and reagents solution and is then transported to flotation cells.  Air is pumped into the cells to produce foam for floating the copper and molybdenum minerals, but splitting waste material called tailings.  This copper-molybdenum bulk concentrate is then treated by inverse flotation where molybdenum is floated and copper is depressed.  The copper concentrate is shipped by rail to the smelter at Ilo and the molybdenum concentrate is packaged for shipment to customers.  Sulfides under 0.40% copper are considered waste.

 

Tailings are sent to thickeners where water is recovered.  The remaining tailings are sent to the Quebrada Honda dam, our principal tailings storage facility.

 

Major Cuajone concentrator plant equipment includes: one primary crusher, three secondary crushers, seven tertiary crushers, eleven primary ball mills, four ball mills for re-grinding rougher concentrate; one vertical mill for re-grinding rougher concentrate; thirty 100 cubic feet cells for rougher flotation; four 160 cubic feet cells for rougher flotation; five 60 cubic feet cells for cleaner scavenger; six 1350 cubic feet cells for cleaner scavenger; fourteen 300 cubic feet cells for cleaner scavenger; eight column cells; one Larox filter press and one FLS Smith filter press; two thickeners for copper-molybdenum and copper concentrates; three tailings thickeners; one high-rate tailings thickener and six pumps for recycling reclaimed water.

 

A major mill expansion was completed in 1999 and the eleventh primary mill was put in operation in January 2008.  We believe the plant’s equipment is in good physical condition and suitable for our operations.

 

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Toquepala

 

Our Toquepala operations consist of an open-pit copper mine and a concentrator.  We also refine copper at the SXEW facility through a leaching process.  Toquepala is located in southern Peru, 30 kilometers from Cuajone and 870 kilometers from Lima.  Access is by plane from Lima to the city of Tacna (1:20 hours) and then by the Pan-American highway to Camiara (1:20 hours) and by road to Toquepala (1 hour).  The concentrator has a milling capacity of 60,000 tons per day.  The SXEW facility has a production capacity of 56,000 tons per year of LME grade A copper cathodes.  Overburden removal commenced in 1957 and ore production commenced in 1960.  Our Toquepala operations utilize a conventional open-pit mining method to collect copper ore for further processing in our concentrator.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our Toquepala operations:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Mine annual operating days

 

 

 

365

 

365

 

366

 

Total material mined

 

(kt)

 

179,313

 

149,287

 

131,646

 

Total ore mined

 

(kt)

 

21,634

 

21,685

 

21,356

 

Copper grade

 

(%)

 

0.678

 

0.655

 

0.608

 

Molybdenum grade

 

(%)

 

0.035

 

0.028

 

0.036

 

Leach material mined

 

(kt)

 

67,103

 

86,692

 

74,286

 

Leach material grade

 

(%)

 

0.252

 

0.223

 

0.226

 

Stripping ratio

 

(x)

 

7.29

 

5.88

 

5.16

 

Total material milled

 

(kt)

 

21,654

 

21,700

 

21,328

 

Copper recovery

 

(%)

 

89.58

 

89.44

 

88.03

 

Molybdenum recovery

 

(%)

 

64.48

 

60.20

 

60.93

 

Copper concentrate

 

(kt)

 

481.7

 

466.4

 

419.7

 

Molybdenum concentrate

 

(kt)

 

8.9

 

6.6

 

8.5

 

Copper concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

27.30

 

27.25

 

27.20

 

Molybdenum concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

54.50

 

54.54

 

54.91

 

Copper in concentrate

 

(kt)

 

131.5

 

127.1

 

114.1

 

Molybdenum in concentrate

 

(kt)

 

4.8

 

3.6

 

4.7

 

Estimated leach recovery

 

(%)

 

25.26

 

25.61

 

26.34

 

SXEW cathode production (from SCC material)

 

(kt)

 

37.9

 

38.0

 

38.8

 

Third parties copper sulfate processed

 

(kt)

 

 

 

5.6

 

Average copper grade on copper sulfate

 

(%)

 

 

 

23.88

 

SXEW cathode production from third parties

 

(kt)

 

 

 

1.3

 

 


Key:        kt = thousand tons

x  = ratio obtained dividing waste plus leachable material by ore mined.

Copper and molybdenum grades are referred to as total copper grade and total molybdenum grade, respectively.

 

Major mine equipment at Toquepala includes twenty-nine 290-ton capacity trucks, five 231-ton capacity trucks, eighteen 218-ton capacity trucks, one 60-cubic yard capacity shovel, three 56 cubic-yard capacity shovels, three 73-cubic yard capacity shovels, one 20-ton capacity shovel, eight electric rotary drills, one Down the Hole (DTH) drill for pre-split and one front-end loader with a capacity of 37 tons.

 

We continuously improve and renovate our equipment.  In 2010, we put into operation two electric rotary drills and three new Komatsu 930E 290-ton capacity trucks with improved haul efficiency.

 

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Geology

 

The Toquepala porphyry copper deposit is located on the western slopes of Cordillera Occidental, in the southern-most Andes Mountains of Peru.  The deposit is part of a mineral district that contains two additional known deposits, Cuajone and Quellaveco.

 

The Toquepala deposit is in the southern region of Peru, located on the western slope of the Andes mountain range, approximately 120 kilometers from the border with Chile.  This region extends into Chile and is home to many of the world’s most significant known copper deposits.  The deposit is in a territory with intrusive and eruptive activities of rhyolitic and andesitic rocks which are 70 million years old (Cretaceous-Tertiary) and which created a series of volcanic lava.  The lava is composed of rhiolites, andesites and volcanic agglomerates with a western dip and at an altitude of 1,500 meters.  These series are known as the Toquepala Group.  Subsequently, different intrusive activities occurred which broke and smelted the rocks of the Toquepala Group.  These intrusive activities resulted in diorites, granodiorites and dikes of porphyric dacite.  Toquepala has a simple mineralogy with regular copper grade distribution.  Economic ore is found as disseminated sulfurs throughout the deposit as veinlets, replenishing empty places or as small aggregates.  Ore minerals include chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), chalcosine (Cu2S) and molybdenite (MoS2).  A secondary enrichment zone is also found with thicknesses between 0 and 150 meters.

 

Mine Exploration

 

Exploration activities during the drill campaign in 2010 are as follows:

 

Studies

 

Meters

 

Holes

 

Notes

 

Unwanted elements and hardness confirmation

 

11,063

 

38

 

To obtain additional information to improve knowledge of unwanted elements and hardness for long-term models.

 

To define quality and variability of rock mass in sector of dacite agglomerate zone (DAZ)

 

2,200

 

11

 

Drilling was performed to obtain a better understanding of the behavior of the DAZ structural domain.

 

Total

 

13,263

 

49

 

 

 

 

Concentrator

 

Our Toquepala concentrator operations use state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems in order to coordinate inflows and optimize operations.  Material with a copper grade over 0.40% is loaded onto rail cars and sent to the crushing circuit, where rotating crushers reduce the size of the rocks by approximately 85%, to less than one-half of an inch.  The ore is then sent to the rod and ball mills, which grind it in a mix with water to the consistency of fine powder.  The finely ground powder mixed with water is then transported to flotation cells.  Air is pumped into the cells producing a froth, which carries the copper mineral to the surface but not the waste rock, or tailings.  The bulk concentrate with sufficient molybdenum content is processed to recover molybdenum by inverse flotation.  This final copper concentrate with a content of approximately 27.5% of copper is filtered in order to get 8.5% moisture.  Concentrates are then shipped by rail to the smelter at Ilo.

 

Tailings are sent to thickeners where water is recovered.  The remaining tailings are sent to the Quebrada Honda dam, our principal tailings storage facility.

 

Major concentrator plant equipment at Toquepala include one primary crusher, three secondary crushers, six tertiary crushers, eight rod mills, twenty-four ball mills,

 

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one distributed control system (DCS), one expert grinding system, forty-two collective flotation cells, fifteen column cells, seventy-two Agitair 1.13 cubic meter cells, two Larox pressure filters, five middling thickeners, two conventional tailings thickeners, three high-rate tailings thickeners, one tripper car, one track tractor and a recycled water pipe line.

 

The expected useful life of the principal equipment is over 20 years due to our equipment maintenance programs.

 

SXEW Plant

 

The SXEW facility at Toquepala produces grade A LME electrowon copper cathodes of 99.999% purity from solutions obtained by leaching low-grade ore stored at the Toquepala and Cuajone mines.  The leach plant commenced operations in 1995 with a design capacity of 35,629 tons per year of copper cathodes.  In 1999 the capacity was expanded to 56,000 tons per year.

 

Copper oxides from Cuajone with a copper grade higher than 0.343%, with an acid solubility index higher than 20% and a cyanide solubility index higher than 50% are leached.  In Toquepala, the leach material cutoff grade is 0.081% and therefore material with a total copper grade between 0.081% and 0.40% are leached.

 

Major equipment at the Cuajone crusher plant includes one primary jaw crusher and one secondary cone crusher with a capacity of 390 tons per hour.  In addition, the plant has one agglomeration mill, one front end loader and three 109-ton capacity trucks for hauling to the leach dumps.  Copper in solution produced in Cuajone is sent to Toquepala through an eight-inch pipe laid alongside the Cuajone-Toquepala railroad track.

 

Major equipment at the Toquepala plant includes five pregnant solution (PLS) ponds, each with its own pumping system to send the solution to the SXEW plant.  The plant also has three lines of SX, each with a nominal capacity of 1,068 cubic meters per hour of pregnant solution and 162 electrowinning cells.

 

Plant and equipment are supported by a maintenance plan and a quality management system to assure good physical condition and high availability.  The SXEW plant management quality system (including leaching operations) has been audited periodically since 2002 by an external audit company, and found to be in compliance with the requirements of the ISO 9001-2000 standard.

 

Processing Facilities - Ilo

 

Our Ilo smelter and refinery complex is located in the southern part of Peru, 17 kilometers north of the city of Ilo, 121 kilometers from Toquepala, 147 kilometers from Cuajone, and 1,240 kilometers from the city of Lima.  Access is by plane from Lima to Tacna (1:20 hours) and then by highway to the city of Ilo (two hours).  Additionally, we maintain a port facility in Ilo, from which we ship our product and receive supplies.  Product shipped and supplies received are moved between Toquepala, Cuajone and Ilo on our industrial railroad.

 

Smelter

 

Our Ilo smelter produces copper anodes for the refinery we operate as part of the same facility.  Copper produced by the smelter exceeds the refinery’s capacity and the excess is sold to other refineries around the world.  In 2007 we completed a major modernization of the smelter at a cost of $570 million.  The nominal installed capacity of the smelter is 1,200,000 tons of concentrate per year.

 

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Copper concentrates from Toquepala and Cuajone are transported by railroad to the smelter, where they are smelted using an ISASMELT furnace, converters and anode furnaces to produce copper anodes with 99.7% copper.  At the smelter, the concentrates are mixed with flux and other material and sent to the ISASMELT furnace producing a mixture of copper matte and slag which is tapped through a taphole to either of two rotary holding furnaces, where these smelted phases will be separated.  Copper matte contains approximately 62% copper.  Copper matte is then sent to the four Pierce Smith converters, where the material is oxidized in two steps: (1) the iron sulfides in the matte are oxidized with oxygen enriched air and silica is added producing slag that is sent to the slag cleaning furnaces, and (2) the copper contained in the matte sulfides is then oxidized to produce blister copper, containing approximately 99.3% copper.  The blister copper is refined in two anode furnaces by oxidation to remove sulfur with compressed air injected into the bath.  Finally, the oxygen content of the molten copper is adjusted by reduction with injection of liquefied petroleum gas with steam into the bath.  Anodes, containing approximately 99.7% copper are cast in two casting wheels.

 

Major equipment at the Ilo smelter includes 1 Isasmelt furnace, 2 rotary holding furnaces, 4 Pierce-Smith converters, 2 slag cleaning furnaces, two anodes furnaces and two casting wheels.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production and sales information for our Ilo smelter plant:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Concentrate smelted

 

(kt)

 

998

 

1,127

 

1,003

 

Average copper recovery

 

(%)

 

97.8

%

97.4

%

97.1

%

Blister production

 

kt

 

 

8.8

 

 

Average blister grade

 

(%)

 

 

99.41

%

 

Anode production

 

(kt)

 

313.4

 

337.7

 

307.5

 

Average anode grade

 

(%)

 

99.72

%

99.72

%

99.70

%

Sulfuric acid produced

 

(kt)

 

963

 

1,077

 

959

 

Blister sales

 

(kt)

 

 

11.7

 

 

Anode sales

 

(kt)

 

12.5

 

17.7

 

10.0

 

Average blister sales price

 

($/lb)

 

 

2.49

 

 

Average anode sales price

 

($/lb)

 

3.34

 

2.38

 

1.84

 

 


Key:                kt = thousand tons

 

The off gases from the smelter are treated to recover over 92% of the incoming sulfur received in the concentrates producing 98.5% sulfuric acid.  The gas stream from the smelter with 11.34% SO2 is split between two plants: The No. 1 acid plant (single absorption/single contact) and the No. 2 plant (double absorption/double contact).  Approximately, 16% of the acid produced is used at our facilities with the balance sold to third parties. We anticipate that our internal usage will be over 80% when the Tia Maria project begins operation.

 

The smelter also has two oxygen plants.  Plant No. 1, with 254 tons per day of production capacity and Plant No.2, with 1,045 tons per day of capacity.

 

In addition, the smelter includes a seawater intake system, two desalinization plants to provide water for the process, an electric substation and a new centralized control using advanced computer technology.

 

In May 2010, the Ilo smelter marine trestle started operation.  This facility allows us to offload directly to offshore ships the sulfuric acid produced, avoiding hauling

 

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cargo through the city of Ilo.  The 500 meter long marine trestle is the last part of the Ilo smelter modernization project.  Currently all overseas shipments of sulfuric acid are being made using the marine trestle.

 

Refinery

 

The refinery consists of a receiving and preparing anode facility, an electrolytic plant, a precious metal plant and a number of ancillary installations.  The refinery is producing grade A copper cathode of 99.998% purity.  The nominal capacity is 280,000 tons per year.  Anodic slimes are recovered from the refining process and then sent to the precious metals facility to produce refined silver, refined gold and commercial grade selenium.

 

Anodes are suspended in tanks containing an aqueous solution of sulfuric acid and copper sulfate.  A low voltage but high amperage electrical current is passed through the anodes, chemical solution and cathodes, in order to dissolve copper which is deposited on initially very thin starting sheets increasing its thickness to produce high grade copper cathodes containing at least 99.99% copper.  During this process, silver, gold and other metals, including palladium, platinum and selenium, along with other impurities, settle on the bottom of the tank in the form of anodic slime.  This anodic slime is processed in a precious metal plant where silver, gold and selenium are recovered.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production and sales information for our Ilo refinery and precious metals plants:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Cathodes produced

 

(kt)

 

255.5

 

262.2

 

248.7

 

Average copper grade

 

(%)

 

99.998

%

99.998

%

99.986

%

Refined silver produced

 

(000 Kg)

 

107.8

 

101.7

 

92.4

 

Refined gold produced

 

(kg)

 

418.2

 

342.0

 

152.9

 

Commercial grade selenium produced

 

(t)

 

59.0

 

56.0

 

44.2

 

Average cathodes sales price

 

($/lb)

 

3.38

 

2.31

 

2.95

 

Average silver sales price

 

($/oz)

 

19.69

 

13.87

 

14.20

 

Average gold sales price

 

($/oz)

 

1,211.14

 

941.18

 

833.59

 

 


Key:        kt = thousand tons

 

Major equipment at the refinery includes one electrolytic plant, with 926 commercial cells, fifty-two starting sheet cells, sixteen primary liberator cells, twenty-four secondary liberator cells, an anodic slime treatment circuit (includes leaching and centrifugation), and an electrolytic bleeding off system by railroad to Toquepala’s leaching plants.

 

Main equipment at the precious metals plant includes one selenium reactor and system to produce commercial grade selenium powder, one tilting Copella furnace, twenty-six silver electrorefining cells including an induction furnace for shots and silver ingots production and one hydrometallurgical system for gold recovery.

 

The refinery also has these facilities:

 

(1)                  Production control: Provides sampling and sampling preparation for samples coming from the operating units, as well as SXEW, smelter and external services.

(2)                  Laboratory: Provides sample analysis services throughout the Company, including the analysis of final products like copper cathodes, electrowon cathodes, copper concentrates and oil analysis.

(3)                  Maintenance: Responsible for maintenance of all equipment involved in the process.

 

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(4)                  Auxiliary facilities: Includes one desalinization plant to produce fresh water and a Gonella boiler to produce steam used in the refinery, one Babcock boiler used as spare and two stand-by KMH boilers.

 

Other facilities in Ilo are a coquina plant with a production capacity of 200,000 tons per year of seashells and a lime plant with a capacity of 80,000 tons per year.  We also operate an industrial railroad to haul production and supplies between Toquepala, Cuajone and Ilo.

 

The industrial railroad’s main equipment includes fifteen locomotives of different types including 4000HP EMD’s SD70, 3000HP EMD’s GP40-3, 2250HP GE U23B and others.  The rolling stock has approximately 502 cars of different types and capacities, including ore concentrate cars, gondolas, flat cars, dump cars, boxcars, tank cars and others.  The track runs in a single 214 kilometer standard gauge line and supports a 30-ton axle load.  The total length of the track system is around 257 kilometers including main yards and sidings.

 

The infrastructure includes 27 kilometers of track under tunnels and one concrete bridge.  The industrial railroad includes a car repair shop which is responsible for maintenance and repair of the car fleet.  Annual tonnage transported is approximately 5.5 million metric tons.

 

MEXICAN OPERATIONS

 

Following is a map indicating the approximate locations of our Mexican mines and processing facilities:

 

 

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MEXICAN OPEN-PIT SEGMENT

 

Our Mexican open-pit segment operations combines two units of Minera Mexico, Mexcobre and Buenavista, which includes La Caridad and Buenavista mine complexes and smelting and refining plants and support facilities, which service both complexes.

 

Following is a map indicating the approximate location of, and access to, our Mexican open-pit mine complexes, as well as our processing facilities:

 

 

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Buenavista

 

The Buenavista mining unit, formerly named Cananea through December 11, 2010, operates an open-pit copper mine, a concentrator and two SXEW plants.  It is located 100 air-kilometers northwest of La Caridad and 40 kilometers south of the Arizona U.S.-Mexican border.  It lies on the outskirts of the city of Cananea.  Buenavista is connected by paved highways to the border city of Agua Prieta to the northeast, to the town of Nacozari in the southeast, and to the town of Imuris to the west.  Buenavista is also connected by railway to Agua Prieta and Nogales.  A municipal airport is located approximately 20 kilometers to the northeast of Buenavista.

 

Except for very brief periods, Buenavista was on strike from July 2007 through June 2010. Restoration of mine and plants started in the third quarter of 2011, SXEW production was restored to full capacity by the fourth quarter and we expect to restore concentrator production to full capacity in the first quarter of 2011.

 

The recovery of the Buenavista mine allows us to resume the development of our capital investment projects at the property, which include a concentrator expansion, a third and fourth SXEW plants, a molybdenum plant and the Quebalix III or crushing, spreading and conveying system at the mine.

 

The concentrator has a nominal milling capacity of 76,700 tons per day.  The SXEW facility has a cathode production capacity of 54,750 tons per year.  The Buenavista ore body is considered one of the world’s largest porphyry copper deposits.  Buenavista is the oldest continuously operated copper mine in North America, with operations dating back to 1899.  High grade ore deposits in the district were mined exclusively using underground methods.  The Anaconda Company acquired the property in 1917.  In the early 1940s Anaconda started developing the first open-pit in Buenavista.  In 1990, through a public auction procedure, Minera Mexico acquired 100% of the Buenavista mining assets for $475 million.  Buenavista is currently applying conventional open-pit mining methods to extract copper ore for further processing in the concentrator.  Two leach ore crushers and the corresponding belt conveying systems are used to convey the leachable material to the heaps.  Likewise, run-off mine leachable ore is hauled by trucks to the leach dumps.

 

The following table shows 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for Buenavista:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Mine annual operating days (1)

 

 

 

169

 

 

88

 

Total material mined

 

(kt)

 

6,439

 

 

4,820

 

Total ore mined

 

(kt)

 

656

 

 

1,271

 

Copper grade

 

(%)

 

0.587

 

 

0.628

 

Leach material mined

 

(kt)

 

3,860

 

 

2,965

 

Leach material grade

 

(%)

 

0.226

 

 

0.285

 

Estimated leach recovery

 

(%)

 

55.0

 

 

65.5

 

SXEW cathode production

 

(kt)

 

20.7

 

 

9.4

 

Stripping ratio

 

(x)

 

8.81

 

 

2.79

 

Total material milled

 

(kt)

 

 

 

1,233

 

Copper concentrate

 

(kt)

 

 

 

24.5

 

Copper concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

 

 

25.14

 

Copper in concentrate

 

(kt)

 

 

 

6.2

 

Copper recovery

 

(%)

 

 

 

79.65

 

 


Key:kt = thousand tons

N/A = not available

x = ratio obtained dividing waste plus leachable material by ore mined.

The copper grade is total grade.

 

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The following table summarizes the estimated production losses at our Buenavista mine due to the strike:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Days of strike

 

157

 

365

 

278

 

Estimated strike production loss (thousand tons):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper in concentrates

 

126

 

120

 

129

 

SXEW cathode production

 

34.7

 

56

 

59

 

 

Major Buenavista mine equipment includes 43 trucks for ore hauling with individual capacities ranging from 240 to 360 tons, eight shovels with individual capacities ranging from 30 to 70 cubic yards, and mine auxiliary equipment including, seven drillers, five front loaders, five motor graders and twenty-four tractors.

 

Geology

 

The Buenavista mining district lies on the southern cordilleran orogen, which extends from southern Mexico to northwestern United States.  It also falls within the Basin and Range metallogenic province.  Geological and structural features in the district are representative of large, disseminated type, porphyry copper deposits.  A calcareous sedimentary sequence of lower Paleozoic age, lithologically correlated with a similar section in southeastern Arizona, uncomformably overlies Precambrian granite basement.  The entire section was covered by volcanic rocks of Mesozoic age and later intruded by deep seated granodiorite batholith of Tertiary age, with further quartz monzonite porphyry differentiates of Laramide age.

 

Mineralization in the district is extensive covering a surface area of approximately 30 square kilometers.  An early pegmatitic stage associated with bornite-chalcopyrite-molybdenite assemblage was followed by a widespread flooding of hydrothermal solutions with quartz- pyrite-chalcopyrite.  A pervasive quartz-sericite alteration is evident throughout the district’s igneous rock fabric.

 

An extensive and economically important zone of supergene enrichment, with disseminated and stockworks of chalcocite (Cu2S), developed below the iron oxide capping.  This zone coincides with the topography and has an average thickness of 300 meters.  A mixed zone of secondary and primary sulfides underlay the chalcocite blanket.  The hypogene mineralization, principally chalcopyrite, (CuFeS2), extensively underlies the orebody.  Molybdenite occurs throughout the deposit and the content tends to increase with depth.

 

The Buenavista copper porphyry is considered world-class and unique.  The deepest exploration results in the core of the deposit have confirmed significant increase in copper grades.  Similar porphyry copper deposits usually contain lower grades at depth.  The district is also unique for the occurrence of high-grade breccia pipes, occurring in clusters following the trend of the district.

 

Current dimensions of the mineralized ore body are 5x3 kilometers, and projects to more than 1 kilometer at depth.  Considering the geological and economic potential of the Buenavista porphyry copper deposit, it is expected that the operation can support a sizeable increase in copper production capacity.

 

Mine Exploration

 

Due to Buenavista’s illegal work stoppage, there were no exploration programs developed in the last three years.  In 2011, we will resume the core drilling program in the areas adjacent to the deposit in order to define areas where leach and waste will be deposited.

 

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Concentrator

 

Buenavista uses state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems at the concentrator, the crushing plant and the flotation circuit in order to coordinate inflows and optimize operations.  Material with a copper grade over 0.38% is loaded onto trucks and sent to the milling circuit, where giant rotating crushers reduce the size of the ore to approximately one-half of an inch.  The ore is then sent to the ball and bar mills, which grind it to the consistency of fine powder.  The finely ground powder is agitated in a water and reagents solution and is then transported to flotation cells.  Air is pumped into the cells producing a froth, which carries the copper mineral to the surface but not the waste rock, or tailings.  Recovered copper, with the consistency of froth, is filtered and dried to produce copper concentrates with an average copper content of approximately 28%.  Concentrates are then shipped by rail to the smelter at La Caridad.

 

The Buenavista concentrator plant, with a milling capacity of 76,700 tons per day, consists of two primary crushers, four secondary crushers, ten tertiary crushers, ten primary mills, one expert control system, five mills for re-grinding, 103 primary flotation cells, ten column cells, seventy exhaustion flotation cells, seven thickeners and three ceramic filters.  In addition, the facility has 48 wells and a pumping station for fresh water supply, a tailings dam and a reclaimed water pumping station.

 

SXEW Plant

 

The Buenavista unit operates a leaching facility and two SXEW plants.  All copper ore with a grade lower than the mill cut-off grade of 0.38%, but higher than 0.25% copper, is delivered to the leach dumps.  A cycle of leaching and resting occurs for approximately five years to achieve a 62.5% recovery in the run-of-mine dumps and three years for the crushed leach material to achieve a 73% recovery.

 

The Buenavista unit currently maintains 22.7 million cubic meters of pregnant leach solution in inventory with a concentration of approximately 2.42 grams of copper per liter.

 

Major equipment at the number I and II SXEW plants includes two crushing systems (No.1 and No.2).  Crushing system No. 1 has a capacity of 32,000 tons per day and includes an apron feeder, a conveyor belt feeder, eight conveyor belt systems and a distributor car.  Crushing system No. 2 has a capacity of 48,000 tons per day and includes one crusher, a conveyor belt feeder, four conveyor belts and a distributing car.  There are three irrigation systems for the dumps and eleven dams for the pregnant leach solution (PLS).  Plant I has four solvent extraction tanks with a nominal capacity of 16,000 liters per minute of PLS and 52 electrowinning cells and has a daily production capacity of 30 tons of copper cathodes with 99.999% purity.  Plant II has five trains of solvent extraction with a nominal capacity of 55,000 liters per minute of PLS and 216 cells distributed in two bays and has a daily production capacity of 120 tons of copper cathodes with 99.9% purity.

 

As mentioned above we intend to increase the Buenavista unit’s production of copper cathodes with two new SXEW plant, (SXEW III and SXEW IV) each of them with an annual capacity of 44,000 tons.  The plants would produce copper cathodes of ASTM grade 1 or LME grade A.  In the second half of 2010, we restarted the project and in December 2010 we completed a review of the basic engineering.  We have started the detailed engineering in January 2011 and, when completed, we will begin the acquisition of major equipment and construction of the plant and new infrastructure.

 

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La Caridad

 

The La Caridad complex includes an open-pit mine, concentrator, smelter, copper refinery, precious metals refinery, rod plant, SXEW plant, lime plant and two sulfuric acid plants.

 

La Caridad mine and mill are located about 23 kilometers southeast of the town of Nacozari de Garcia in northeastern Sonora.  Nacozari is about 264 kilometers northeast of the Sonora state capital of Hermosillo and 121 kilometers south of the U.S.-Mexico border.  Nacozari is connected by paved highway with Hermosillo and Agua Prieta and by rail with the international port of Guaymas, and the Mexican and United States rail systems.  An airstrip with a reported runway length of 2,500 meters is located 36 kilometers north of Nacozari, less than one kilometer away from the La Caridad copper smelter and refinery.  The smelter and the sulfuric acid plants, as well as the refineries and rod plant, are located approximately 24 kilometers from the mine.  Access is by paved highway and by railroad.

 

The concentrator began operations in 1979, the molybdenum plant was added in 1982, the smelter in 1986, the first sulfuric acid plant in 1988, the SXEW plant in 1995, the second sulfuric acid plant in 1997, the copper refinery in 1997, the rod plant in 1998, and the precious metals refinery in 1999.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for La Caridad:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Mine annual operating days

 

 

 

365

 

365

 

366

 

Total material mined

 

(kt)

 

84,163

 

85,491

 

85,739

 

Total ore mined

 

(kt)

 

33,344

 

32,952

 

31,779

 

Copper grade

 

(%)

 

0.350

 

0.378

 

0.380

 

Molybdenum grade

 

(%)

 

0.045

 

0.0460

 

0.0380

 

Leach material mined

 

(kt)

 

29,463

 

35,093

 

38,053

 

Leach material grade

 

(%)

 

0.208

 

0.234

 

0.235

 

Estimated leach recovery

 

(%)

 

55.00

 

46.18

 

50.84

 

SXEW cathode production

 

(kt)

 

22.9

 

23.2

 

22.0

 

Total material milled

 

(kt)

 

33,196

 

33,099

 

31,587

 

Stripping ratio

 

(x)

 

1.52

 

1.59

 

1.70

 

Copper concentrate

 

(kt)

 

431.2

 

453.7

 

421.5

 

Molybdenum concentrate

 

(kt)

 

19.2

 

18.0

 

13.7

 

Copper concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

22.00

 

22.59

 

23.00

 

Molybdenum concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

54.27

 

54.51

 

53.02

 

Copper in concentrate

 

(kt)

 

94.9

 

102.5

 

96.9

 

Molybdenum in concentrate

 

(kt)

 

10.4

 

9.8

 

7.3

 

Copper recovery

 

(%)

 

81.59

 

82.02

 

80.70

 

Molybdenum recovery

 

(%)

 

70.20

 

65.87

 

60.59

 

 


Key:  kt = thousand tons

x = ratio obtained dividing waste plus leachable material by ore mined

The copper and molybdenum grade are total grade.  The molybdenum grade value corresponds to molybdenum disulfide (molybdenite); molybdenum recovery is at present about 70.2%.

 

Major mine equipment includes twenty-seven trucks for ore hauling with capacity of 240 tons, six shovels with a capacity of 43 cubic yard.  Loading and auxiliary equipment includes six drillers, five front loaders, three motorgraders and eighteen tractors.

 

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Geology

 

The La Caridad deposit is a typical porphyry copper and molydenum deposit as seen also in the southwestern basin of United States.  The La Caridad mine uses a conventional open-pit mining method.  The ore body is at the top of a mountain, which gives La Caridad the advantage of a relative low waste-stripping ratio, natural pit drainage and relative short haul for both ore and waste.  The mining method involves drilling, blasting, loading and haulage of ore mill and waste to the primary crushers and the leach materials and waste to dumps, respectively.

 

La Caridad deposit is located in northeastern Sonora, Mexico.  The deposit is situated near the crest of the Sierra Juriquipa, about 23 kilometers southeast of the town of Nacozari, Sonora, Mexico.  The Sierra Juriquipa rises to elevations of around 2,000 meters in the vicinity of La Caridad and is one of the many north-trending mountain ranges in Sonora that form a southern extension of the basin and range province.

 

The La Caridad porphyry copper-molybdenum deposit occurs exclusively in felsic to intermediate intrusive igneous rocks and associated breccias.  Host rocks include diorite and granodiorite.  These rocks are intruded by a quartz monzonite porphyry stock and by numerous breccia masses, which contain fragments of all the older rock types.

 

Supergene enrichment, consisting of complete to partial chalcosite (Cu2S) replacement of chalcopyrite (CuFeS2).  The zone of supergene enrichment occurs as a flat and tabular blanket with an average diameter of 1,700 meters and thickness generally between 0 and 90 meters.

 

Economic ore is found as disseminated sulfurs within the central part of the deposit.  Sulfide-filled breccias cavities are most abundant in the intrusive breccia.  This breccia-cavity mineralization occurs as sulfide aggregates which have crystallized in the spaces separating breccia clasts.  Near the margins of the deposit, mineralization occurs almost exclusively in veinlets.  Ore minerals include chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), chalcosite (Cu2S) and molybdenite (MoS2).

 

Mine Exploration

 

The La Caridad ore body has been mined for over 30 years.  The extent of the model area is approximately 6,000 meters by 4,000 meters with elevation ranging from 750 to 1,800 meters.

 

Sixteen drilling campaigns have been conducted on the property since 1968.  These campaigns drilled a total of 3,317 drill holes: 1,154 were diamond drill holes and 2,163 were reverse circulation.  We have also drilled some hammer and percussion drill holes.  A total of 634,080 meters have been drilled through December 2010.

 

In 2008, La Caridad finished a large exploration program of 50,000 meters.  The target was to reach to the 900 level in order to reduce the drilling space and to define the copper and molybdenum mineralization continuity and also carry out metallurgical testing for the flotation and leaching processes.  There was no exploration program in 2009 and 2010.  However, in 2011, we plan an exploration program of 25,000 meters with the objective of further defining the copper and molybdenum mineralization continuity.

 

Concentrator

 

La Caridad uses state-of-the-art computer monitoring systems at the concentrator, the crushing plant and the flotation circuit in order to coordinate inflows and optimize operations.  The concentrator has a current capacity of 90,000 tons of ore per day.

 

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Ore extracted from the mine with a copper grade over 0.30% is sent to the concentrator and is processed into copper concentrates and molybdenum concentrates.  The copper concentrates are sent to the smelter and the molybdenum concentrate is exported.  The molybdenum recovery plant has a capacity of 2,000 tons per day of copper-molybdenum concentrates.  The lime plant has a capacity of 340 tons of finished product per day.

 

La Caridad concentrator plant consists of two primary crushers, six secondary crushers, twelve tertiary crushers, twelve ball mills, a master milling control system, 100 primary flotation cells, four re-grinding mills, 96 cleaning flotation cells, twelve thickeners and six drum filters.

 

SXEW Plant

 

Approximately 602.3 million tons of leaching ore with an average grade of approximately 0.208% copper have been extracted from the La Caridad open-pit mine and deposited in leaching dumps from May 1995 to December 31, 2010.  All copper ore with a grade lower than the mill cut-off grade 0.30%, but higher than 0.15% copper, is delivered to the leaching dumps.  In 1995, we completed the construction of a SXEW facility at La Caridad that has allowed processing of this ore and certain leach ore reserves that were not mined and has resulted in a reduction in our copper production costs.  The SXEW facility has an annual capacity of 21,900 tons of copper cathodes.

 

The La Caridad SX-EW plant has nine irrigation systems for the dumps, two PLS dams and a container of heads that permits the combination of the solutions of both dams and which feeds the SXEW plant with a more homogenous concentration.  The plant has three trains of solvent extraction with a nominal capacity of 2,070 cubic meters per hour and 94 electrowinning cells distributed in one single electrolytic bay.  The plant has a daily production capacity of 62 tons of copper cathodes with 99.999% purity.

 

Processing Facilities — La Caridad

 

Our La Caridad complex includes a smelter, an electrolytic copper refinery, a precious metal refinery and a copper rod plant.  The distance between this complex and the La Caridad mine is approximately 24 kilometers.

 

Smelter

 

Copper concentrates from Buenavista, Santa Barbara, Charcas and La Caridad are transported by rail and truck, respectively, to the La Caridad smelter where they are processed and cast into copper anodes of 99.2% purity.  Sulfur dioxide off-gases collected from the flash furnace, the El Teniente converter and conventional converters are processed into sulfuric acid, at two sulfuric acid plants.  Approximately 2% to 3% of this acid is used by our SXEW plants and the balance is sold to third parties.

 

Almost all of the anodes produced in the smelter are sent to the La Caridad copper refinery.  The actual installed capacity of the smelter is 1,000,000 tons per year, a capacity that is sufficient to treat all the concentrates of La Caridad and Buenavista, and starting in 2010, the concentrates from the IMMSA mines, as we closed the San Luis Potosi smelter.  The smelter includes a flash type concentrates drier, a steam drier, a flash furnace, one El Teniente modified converter furnace, two electric slag-cleaning furnaces, three Pierce-Smith converters, three rafinnate furnaces and two casting wheels.  The anode production capacity is 300,000 tons per year.

 

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Refinery

 

La Caridad includes an electrolytic copper refinery that uses permanent cathode technology.  The installed capacity of the refinery is 300,000 tons per year.  The refinery consists of an anode plant with a preparation area, an electrolytic plant with an electrolytic cell house with 1,115 cells and 32 liberator cells, two cathode stripping machines, an anode washing machine, a slime treatment plant and a number of ancillary installations.  The refinery is producing grade A copper cathode of 99.99% purity.  Anodic slimes are recovered from the refining process and sent to the slimes treatment plant where additional copper is extracted.  The slimes are then filtered, packed and shipped to the La Caridad precious metals refinery to produce silver and gold.

 

The operations of the precious metal refinery are divided into two stages: (i) the antimony is eliminated from the slime, and (ii) the slime is dried in a steam dryer.  After this the dried slime is smelted and a gold and silver alloy is obtained, which is known as dore.  The precious metal refinery plant has a hydrometallurgical stage and a pyrometallurgical stage, besides a steam dryer, dore casting system, Kaldo furnace, 20 electrolytic cells in the silver refinery, one induction furnace for fine silver, one silver ingot casting system and two reactors for obtaining fine gold.  The process ends with the refining of the gold and silver alloy.

 

Copper Rod Plant

 

A rod plant at the La Caridad complex was completed in 1998 and reached its full annual operating capacity of 150,000 tons in 1999.  The plant is producing eight millimeter copper rods with a purity of 99.99%.  The rod plant includes a vertical furnace, one retention furnace, one molding machine, one laminating machine, one coiling machine and one coil compacter.

 

Other facilities include a lime plant with a capacity of 132,000 tons per year; two sulfuric acid plants, one with a capacity of 2,625 tons per day and the second with a capacity of 2,135 tons per day; three oxygen plants, each with a production capacity of 275 tons per day; and two power turbo generators, one of them uses residual heat from the flash furnace, the first with a 11.5 megawatt capacity and the second with a 25 megawatt capacity.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for the La Caridad processing facilities:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Smelter

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total copper concentrate smelted

 

(kt)

 

416.7

 

466.0

 

574.6

 

Anode copper production

 

(kt)

 

117.6

 

140.8

 

173.2

 

Average copper content in anode

 

(%)

 

99.05

 

99.19

 

99.25

 

Average smelter recovery

 

(%)

 

98.7

 

98.5

 

97.5

 

Sulfuric acid production

 

(kt)

 

441.5

 

485.7

 

578.2

 

Refinery

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Refined cathode production

 

(kt)

 

84.6

 

117.1

 

140.3

 

Refined silver production

 

(000 kg)

 

189.6

 

202.3

 

136.4

 

Refined gold production

 

(Kg)

 

845.7

 

950.1

 

666.0

 

Rod Plant

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper rod production

 

(kt)

 

57.3

 

60.1

 

76.3

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Sales data:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average realized price copper rod

 

($ per lb)

 

3.45

 

2.49

 

3.24

 

Average premium copper rod

 

($ per lb)

 

0.12

 

0.11

 

0.11

 

Average realized price gold

 

($ per ounce)

 

1,220.07

 

976.30

 

858.80

 

Average realized price silver

 

($ per ounce)

 

20.11

 

14.93

 

13.84

 

Average realized price sulfuric acid

 

($ per ton)

 

29.16

 

25.70

 

145.99

 

 


Key:                      kt = thousand tons

Kg = kilograms

 

MEXICAN IMMSA UNIT

 

Our IMMSA unit (underground mining poly-metallic division) operates five underground mining complexes situated in central and northern Mexico and produces zinc, lead, copper, silver and gold, and has a coal mine.  These complexes include industrial processing facilities for zinc, lead, copper and silver.  All of IMMSA’s mining facilities employ exploitation systems and conventional equipment.  We believe that all the plants and equipment are in satisfactory operating condition.  IMMSA’s principal mining facilities include Charcas, Santa Barbara, San Martin, Santa Eulalia and Taxco.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our Mexican IMMSA unit:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Average annual operating days(*)

 

 

 

313

 

325

 

315

 

Total material mined and milled

 

(kt)

 

2,893.3

 

3,010

 

2,923

 

Zinc average ore grade

 

(%)

 

3.77

 

4.07

 

4.14

 

Zinc concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

179.8

 

199.1

 

194.0

 

Zinc concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

55.16

 

55.47

 

55.10

 

Zinc average recovery

 

(%)

 

90.86

 

90.22

 

88.37

 

Lead average ore grade

 

(%)

 

0.86

 

0.91

 

0.89

 

Lead concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

36.5

 

40.4

 

38.3

 

Lead concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

55.43

 

55.67

 

53.36

 

Lead average recovery

 

(%)

 

81.65

 

82.34

 

78.38

 

Copper average ore grade

 

(%)

 

0.39

 

0.37

 

0.37

 

Copper concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

18.4

 

18.7

 

18.3

 

Copper concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

30.76

 

30.06

 

29.57

 

Copper average recovery

 

(%)

 

49.80

 

50.74

 

50.42

 

 


kt =  thousand tons

(*)         Weighted average annual operating days based on total material mined and milled in the five mines: Charcas, San Martin, Taxco, Santa Barbara, and Santa Eulalia.

 

Charcas

 

The Charcas mining complex is located 111 kilometers north of the city of San Luis Potosi in the State of San Luis Potosi, Mexico.  Charcas is connected to the state capital by a paved highway of 130 kilometers.  14 kilometers from the southeast of the Charcas complex is the “Los Charcos” railroad station which connects with the Mexico-Laredo railway.  Also, a paved road connects Charcas to the city of Matehuala via a federal highway and begins at the northeast of the Charcas townsite.  The complex includes three underground mines (San Bartolo, Rey-Reina and La Aurora) and one flotation plant that produces zinc, lead and copper concentrates, with significant amounts of silver.  The Charcas mining district was discovered in 1573 and operations in the 20th century began in 1911.  The Charcas mine is characterized by low operating costs and good quality ores and is situated near the zinc refinery.  The Charcas mine is now Mexico’s largest producer of zinc.

 

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The Charcas complex’s equipment includes fourteen jumbo drilling tools, nineteen scoop trams for mucking and loading, ten trucks and six locomotives for internal ore haulage and four hoists.  In addition, the mill has one primary crusher, one secondary crusher and two tertiary crushers, four mills and three flotation circuits.

 

Geology

 

The Charcas mining district occupies the east-central part of the Mexican Central Mesa and is part of the Sierra Madre metallogenic province.  Geological history starts in the Superior Triasic, where sandy clay sediments were deposited argilloarenaceous.  Due to emersion in the beginning of the Jurassic Superior, the sediments suffered intense erosion, settling on continental sediments.  This sequence was affected by tectonic effort, which folded and failed on this rock package.  Later the positioning of intrusive rocks originated fractures, which gave way to positioning of mineral deposits.  The site’s paragenesis suggests two stages of mineralization.  First minerals are rich in silver, lead and zinc, with abundant calcite and small quantities of quartz chalcopyrite.  Second, there is a link of copper and silver, where the characteristic minerals are chalcopyrite, lead ore with silver content, pyrite and scarce sphalerite.  Economic ore is found as replacement sulfurs in carbonates host rock.  The ore mineralogy is comprised predominantly of calcopyrite (CuFeS2), sphalerite (ZnS), galena (PbS) and silver minerals as diaphorite (Pb2Ag3Sb3S8).

 

Mine exploration

 

At Charcas, 18,108 meters of diamond drilling were executed from underground stations and 28,860 meters from surface.  With this drilling, 1,423,672 tons were added to the reserve base in 2010.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our Charcas mine:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Annual operating days

 

 

 

324

 

322

 

325

 

Total material mined and milled

 

(kt)

 

1,165

 

1,162

 

1,169

 

Zinc average ore grade

 

(%)

 

5.1

 

5.50

 

5.70

 

Zinc concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

101.8

 

108.9

 

109.5

 

Zinc concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

56.78

 

56.98

 

56.94

 

Zinc average recovery

 

(%)

 

97.29

 

97.08

 

93.53

 

Lead average ore grade

 

(%)

 

0.4

 

0.47

 

0.53

 

Lead concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

6.8

 

7.9

 

9.8

 

Lead concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

48.14

 

52.81

 

45.40

 

Lead average recovery

 

(%)

 

69.55

 

76.58

 

71.26

 

Copper average ore grade

 

(%)

 

0.23

 

0.22

 

0.23

 

Copper concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

3.1

 

3.2

 

3.6

 

Copper concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

30.26

 

29.56

 

28.54

 

Copper average recovery

 

(%)

 

35.09

 

37.02

 

37.83

 

 


kt = thousand tons

 

The Charcas mine uses the hydraulic cut-and-fill method and the room-and-pillar mining method with descending benches.  The broken ore is hauled to the underground crusher station.  The crushed ore is then hoisted to the surface for processing in the flotation plant to produce lead, zinc and copper concentrates.  The capacity of the flotation plant is 4,100 tons of ore per day.  The lead concentrate produced at Charcas is treated at a third party refinery in Mexico.  The zinc and copper concentrates are treated at our San Luis Potosi zinc refinery and the copper

 

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concentrates were treated at the San Luis Potosi copper smelter until 2010.  They are now treated at our La Caridad smelter.

 

Santa Barbara

 

The Santa Barbara mining complex is located approximately 26 kilometers southwest of the city of Hidalgo del Parral in southern Chihuahua, Mexico.  The area can be reached via paved road from Hidalgo del Parral, a city on a federal highway.  Chihuahua, the state capital is located 250 kilometers north of the Santa Barbara complex.  Additionally, El Paso on the Texas border is located 600 kilometers north of Santa Barbara.  Santa Barbara includes three main underground mines (San Diego, Segovedad and Tecolotes) and a flotation plant and produces lead, copper and zinc concentrates, with significant amounts of silver.  Gold-bearing veins were discovered in the Santa Barbara district as early as 1536.  Mining activities in the 20th century began in 1913.

 

The mining operations at Santa Barbara are more diverse and complex than at any of the other mines in our Mexican operations, with veins that aggregate approximately 21 kilometers in length.  Each of the three underground mines has several shafts and crushers.  Due to the variable characteristics of the ore bodies, four types of mining methods are used: shrinkage stoping, long-hole drilled open stoping, cut-and-fill stoping and horizontal bench stoping.  The ore, once crushed, is processed in the flotation plant to produce concentrates.  The flotation plant has a capacity of 5,700 tons of ore per day.  The lead concentrate produced is treated at a third party refinery in Mexico.  The copper concentrates were treated at our San Luis Potosi copper smelter, and the zinc concentrates are either treated at the San Luis Potosi zinc refinery or exported.  The copper concentrates are now treated at our La Caridad smelter.

 

The major mine equipment at Santa Barbara includes eighteen jumbo drilling tools, one Simba drilling tools, thirty-nine scoop trams, thirteen trucks and eleven locomotives for internal ore haulage, seven trucks for external haulage and six hoists.  For treating the ore, there are six primary jaw crushers, one secondary crusher and two tertiary crushers, three mills and three flotation circuits.  The concentrator plant has a milling capacity of 5,800 tons of ore per day.

 

Geology

 

The majority of production from the district comes from quartz veins within faults and fractures.  The north to northwestern trending veins is up to several kilometers long, dips steeply to the west and is 0.5 to 30 meters wide.  Ore shoots up to several hundred meters in length, extends to at least 900 meters below the surface and is separated from other ore by 0.5 to 1 meter of barren quartz vein.  Metal zoning occurs in some veins, with zinc and lead content generally decreasing with depth and copper increasing with depth.  Three main systems of veins exist inside the district, represented by the veins Coyote, Segovedad Novedad and Coyote Seca Palmar.  In addition to the main veins, there are many smaller sub-parallel to branching ore bearing veins. Economic ore minerals include sphalerite (ZnS), marmatite (ZnFeS), galena (PbS), chalcopyrite (CuFeS2) and tetrahedrite (CuFe12Sb4S13).  Gangue minerals include quartz (SiO2), pyrite (FeS2), magnetite (Fe2O4), pirrotite (Fe2+S), arsenopyrite (FeAsS) and fluorite (CaF2).

 

The Santa Barbara district has mineralization to indicate that it will continue to be a significant producer of lead, copper and zinc for decades.  The full potential of the district has not yet been defined, but the area seems to justify an increase in exploration.

 

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Mine Exploration:

 

At Santa Barbara, 14,242 meters were drilled from underground stations and 19,348 meters from the surface in 2010.  With this drilling, 2,130,761 tons were added to the reserve base in 2010.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our Santa Barbara mines:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Annual operating days

 

 

 

321

 

328

 

327

 

Total material mined and milled

 

(kt)

 

1,578

 

1,542

 

1,461

 

Zinc average ore grade

 

(%)

 

2.53

 

2.49

 

2.37

 

Zinc concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

63.7

 

59.4

 

55.9

 

Zinc concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

53.99

 

55.44

 

53.68

 

Zinc average recovery

 

(%)

 

86.1

 

85.72

 

86.69

 

Lead average ore grade

 

(%)

 

1.02

 

0.95

 

0.90

 

Lead concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

24.3

 

22.7

 

19.4

 

Lead concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

56.53

 

54.34

 

54.28

 

Lead average recovery

 

(%)

 

85.29

 

84.07

 

80.20

 

Copper average ore grade

 

(%)

 

0.54

 

0.53

 

0.53

 

Copper concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

15.3

 

15.5

 

14.8

 

Copper concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

30.86

 

30.16

 

29.82

 

Copper average recovery

 

(%)

 

55.57

 

57.31

 

56.87

 

 


kt = thousand tons

 

San Martin

 

San Martin has been on strike since July 2007.  Please see Note 15 “Commitments and contingencies” to our consolidated financial statements.

 

The San Martin mining complex is located in the municipality of Sombrerete in the western part of the state of Zacatecas, Mexico, approximately 101 kilometers southeast of the city of Durango and nine kilometers east of the Durango State boundary.  Access to the property is via a federal highway between the cities of Durango and Zacatecas.  A paved six kilometer road connects the mine and town of San Martin with the highway.  The city of Sombrerete is about 16 kilometers east of the property.  The complex includes an underground mine and a flotation plant and produces lead, copper and zinc concentrates, with significant amounts of silver.  The mining district in which the San Martin mine is located was discovered in 1555.  Mining operations in the 20th century began in 1949.  San Martin lies in the Mesa Central between the Sierra Madre Occidental and the Sierra Madre Oriental.

 

The horizontal cut-and-fill mining method is used at the San Martin mine.  The broken ore is hauled to the underground crusher station.  The ore is then brought to the surface and fed to the flotation plant to produce concentrates.  The flotation plant has a total capacity of 4,400 tons of ore per day.  The lead concentrate is treated at a third party refinery in Mexico.  The copper concentrate was treated at our San Luis Potosi copper smelter and the zinc concentrate is either treated at the San Luis Potosi zinc refinery or exported.

 

The major mine equipment at San Martin includes eight jumbo drilling tools, thirteen scoop trams, nine trucks and three hoists.  For treating the ore, there are two primary jaw crushers, two secondary crushers and one tertiary crusher, two mills and

 

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three flotation circuits. The concentrator plant has a mill capacity of 4,400 tons of ore per day.

 

Geology

 

San Martin lies in the Central Mesa between two major geologic provinces, Sierra Madre Occidental and Sierra Madre Oriental.  The main sedimentary rock-formation in the San Martin district is the Upper Cretaceous Age Cuesta del Cura limestone.  The formation is an interlayered sequence of shallow marine limestone and black chert, and it is overlain by Indura formation which outcrops at the foot of the topographic heights of the Cuesta del Cura formation.  It consists mainly of alternating shales and fine-grained clayed limestones in ten to thirty centimeter thick layers.

 

The district’s most important mineral deposits are replacement veins and bodies generated in the skarn by Cerro de la Gloria granodiorite intrusion.  An extensive zone of skarn west of the intrusive hosts, the San Marcial, Ibarra and Gallo-Gallina main ore veins, which appear at the surface for distances of up to 1,000 meters, with thicknesses of 40 centimeters to four meters, paralleling the intrusive contact.  In the central part of the deposit there is a horizontal zoning with respect to the contact of the intrusive with high values of silver and copper.  In the top of the deposit there is mostly lead and zinc.  In the northeast/east over concentric structures to the intrusive there is an increment of lead, zinc and silver in the skarn.  Economic ore is found as replacement ore bodies between the main veins as massive and disseminated sulfides with widths from eight meters up to 200 meters.  These bodies consist mostly of chalcopyrite (CuFeS2), sphalerite (ZnS), galena (PbS), bornite (Cu5FeS4), tetrahedrite (CuFe12Sb4S13), native silver (Ag), pyrrite (FeS), arsenopyrite (FeAsS) and stibnite (Sb2S3).  Molybdenum and tungsten are found in little portions in the skarn near the contact associated with the calcite.

 

Mine Exploration

 

There was no mine exploration drilling in the three years ending December 31, 2010 because the San Martin mine was on strike.

 

There was no production at the San Martin mine in the three years ending December 31, 2010. The following table summarizes the estimated production losses at our San Martin mine due to the strike:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Days of strike

 

365

 

365

 

366

 

Estimated strike production loss (tons):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zinc in concentrates

 

10,264

 

10,264

 

10,292

 

Lead in concentrates

 

500

 

500

 

501

 

Copper in concentrates

 

4,360

 

4,360

 

4,375

 

 

Santa Eulalia

 

The mining district of Santa Eulalia is located in the central part of the state of Chihuahua, Mexico, approximately 26 kilometers east of the city of Chihuahua.  This district covers approximately 48 square kilometers and is divided into three fields: east field, central field and west field.  The west field and the east field, in which the principal mines of the complex are found, are separated by six kilometers.  The Buena Tierra mine is located in the west field and the San Antonio mine is located in the east field.  The mining district was discovered in 1590, although exploitation did not formally begin until 1870.

 

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The district of Santa Eulalia is connected to the city of Chihuahua by a paved road (highway no. 45), at a distance of ten kilometers there is a paved detour to Aquiles Serdan and Francisco Portillo (also known as Santo Domingo) where the Company’s offices and the Buena Tierra mine are located.  Access to the Buena Tierra mine and San Antonio mine is via an 11 kilometer unpaved road.

 

The Santa Eulalia mine suspended operations from October 2000 to December 2004, during which time rehabilitation work was completed at the San Antonio shaft and pipes were installed to expand the pumping capacity to 10,500 gallons per minute.  In January 2005, operations were restarted.  In May 2010, the Santa Eulalia mine suspended operations because of unusually heavy rains, which caused flooding in the area and hindered production.  We have a rehabilitation program, which includes a pumping system with a total budget of $12.9 million, of which $3.8 million was spent at December 31, 2010. We expect to restore mine production by October, 2011.

 

The flotation plant, at which lead and zinc concentrates are produced, has a capacity of 1,500 tons of ore per day.  The lead concentrate is treated at a third party refinery, and the zinc concentrate is treated at our San Luis Potosi refinery.

 

Major mine equipment at the Santa Eulalia mine include five Jumbo drilling tools, eleven scoop trams for mucking and loading, two trucks and two hoists.  For treating the ore, there are two primary crushers, one secondary crusher and one tertiary crusher, two mill crushers, one mill and two flotation circuits.  The concentrator plant has a milling capacity of 1,450 tons of ore per day.

 

Geology

 

Santa Eulalia is the largest of a number of similar districts that lie along the intersection of the Laramide-aged Mexican Thrust Belt and the Tertiary volcanic plateau of the Sierra Madre Occidental.  Deposits throughout the belt occur in a thick Jurassic-Cretaceous carbonate succession that overlies Paleozoic or older crust.

 

The main sedimentary rock in the Santa Eulalia district is the Lower Cretaceous Limestone.  These are irregularly covered by volcanic sedimentary conglomerates that are overlaid by volcanic rocks of the tertiary and alluvial material of the Quaternary Age.

 

In the Santa Eulalia mining district a thickness of 500 meters of sedimentary rocks is known to exist which consists of the following formations: 1) Formation Lagrima (limestone fossils); 2) Formation Glen Rose (limestone blue and at its base a black limestone appears); and 3) Formation Cuchillo (limestone with shale).  Dikes and sills of riolite composition and sills of diabase also exist.

 

In the district there are several systems of fractures and faults associated with the emplacement of felsitic and maphic intrusives.  The most important controller of the ore bodies are the north-south fractures.

 

The mineralization corresponds in its majority to ore skarns — silicoaluminates of calcium, iron and manganese with variable quantities of lead, zinc, copper and iron sulfides, located in the planes of crossings in the interstices of the silicates.  Economic ore is found as replacement in the Limestone Glen Rose in the contact with dikes and sills and replacements in diabase sills.  The mineralogy is comprised predominantly of sphalerite (ZnS), galena (PbS) and small quantities of pyrargyrite (Ag3SbS3).

 

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Mine Exploration

 

At Santa Eulalia, in 2010, 4,531 meters were drilled from underground stations and 12,586 meters from the surface.  With this drilling, 150,266 tons were added to the reserve base in 2010.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our Santa Eulalia mine:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Annual operating days

 

 

 

150

 

326

 

326

 

Total material mined and milled

 

(kt)

 

150.3

 

306.2

 

293.0

 

Zinc average ore grade

 

(%)

 

6.54

 

6.57

 

6.73

 

Zinc concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

14.3

 

30.8

 

28.7

 

Zinc concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

48.86

 

50.20

 

50.87

 

Zinc average recovery

 

(%)

 

71.28

 

77.01

 

73.87

 

Lead average ore grade

 

(%)

 

2.64

 

2.35

 

2.29

 

Lead concentrate produced

 

(kt)

 

5.4

 

9.8

 

9.1

 

Lead concentrate average grade

 

(%)

 

56.69

 

61.05

 

59.94

 

Lead average recovery

 

(%)

 

81.26

 

83.23

 

81.41

 

 


kt =         thousand tons

 

Taxco

 

Taxco has been on strike since July 2007.  Please see Note 15 “Commitments and contingencies” to our consolidated financial statements.

 

The Taxco mining complex is located on the outskirts of the city of Taxco in the northern part of the state of Guerrero, Mexico, approximately 71 kilometers from the city of Cuernavaca, Morelos, where access through the highway to the complex is possible.  The complex includes several underground mines (San Antonio, Guerrero and Remedios) and a flotation plant and produces lead and zinc concentrates, with some amounts of gold and silver.  The mining district in which the Taxco mines are located was discovered in 1519.  Mining activities in the 20th century commenced in 1918.  The Taxco district lies in the northern part of the Balsas-Mexcala basin adjacent to the Paleozoic Taxco-Zitacuaro Massif.

 

We employ shrinkage, cut-and-fill and the room and pillar mining methods at the Taxco mines.  The flotation plant has a capacity of 2,000 tons of ore per day.  The lead concentrate is treated at a third party refinery in Mexico.  The zinc concentrate is either treated at the San Luis Potosi zinc refinery or exported.

 

The major mine equipment at the Taxco complex include four Jumbo drilling tools, ten scoop trams for mucking and loading, five trucks and three locomotives for internal ore haulage and three hoists.  For treating the ore, there are two primary crushers, one secondary crusher and two tertiary crushers, three mills and two flotation circuits.  The concentrator plant has a milling capacity of 2,000 tons of ore per day.

 

Geology

 

The Taxco district is stratigraphically formed of rocks from Jurassic to recent periods, which are described below, with emphasis on the mineralization control characteristics.  The Taxco schist is composed of a series of schists and fylites, most likely from a volcanic-sedimentary sequence of tufa and limonites.  They represent a sequence of metamorphological arch and its age has been defined as Jurassic Medium.  The Morelos formation from the Upper Cretaceous age (Apian-Turonian)

 

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lies on a discordant form over Taxco schist and its contact is several times marked by a clay zone (mylonites) and breccia, which implies a shifting of this unit over the schist (packs).  The Mezcala formation is constituted by a sequence of shale and sandstone with some inter-stratified layers of limestone.  Its base is calcarean.  Its top tends to be rich in clay with thin limestone layers.  The Balsas group is constituted by conglomerates and is sandy on its base, rests in discordance form on an erosioned surface from the Mexcala formation.  The Tilzapotla Ryolite is the newest rock, which emerged in the district before the alluvial deposit.  It is formed of flux, breccia, tuffaceous, ignimbrites and vitrophyrre of ryolite composition.

 

There are four types of ore deposits found in Taxco district.  In order of importance they are as follows: fissure-filling veins, replacement veins, blanket-like replacement bodies (so called “mantos”), stock works and brecciate chimneys.  The three first ones are intimately related and they were formed in the same era, although in different stages.

 

The veins reach up to two kilometers in length with a variable potency of thirty centimeters up to eight meters, which is the case of copper veins at the mines of Guerrero, Hueyapa and Palo Amarillo at the San Antonio mine; the Remedios mine has among other veins, El Muerto and El Cristo one kilometer long and five meters in average potency.

 

Economic ore is found in the deposit in veins. Ore mineral include argentiferous galena (PbS), sphalerite (ZnS), pyrargyrite (Ag3SbS3), and other sulfosalts, and replacement “mantos.”  The most mineralized zones are in the vicinity of the veins with the limestone.  The mineralization is more intensive in the base of the limestone and consists of sphalerite (ZnS), galena (PbS), pyrite (FeS) and magnetite (FeOFe2O3).

 

Mine Exploration

 

There was no mine exploration drilling in the three years ending December 31, 2010 because the Taxco mine was on strike.

 

There was no production at the Taxco mine in the three years ending December 31, 2010. The following table summarizes the estimated production losses at our Taxco mine due to the strike:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Days of strike

 

365

 

365

 

366

 

Estimated strike production loss (tons):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zinc in concentrates

 

13,270

 

13,270

 

13,306

 

Lead in concentrates

 

2,225

 

2,225

 

2,233

 

 

Processing Facilities - San Luis Potosi

 

Our San Luis Potosi electrolytic zinc refinery is located in the city of San Luis Potosi, in the state of San Luis Potosi, Mexico.  The San Luis Potosi copper smelter is adjacent to the refinery. The city of San Luis Potosi is connected to our refinery and smelter by a major highway.

 

Smelter

 

Our San Luis copper smelter, which was in operation since 1925, was closed in 2010, and copper concentrates previously smelted at this plant are now sent to La Caridad for smelting.  We believe operating efficiencies will increase with La Caridad replacing the copper smelting capacity of San Luis Potosi.

 

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We have initiated a program for plant demolition and soil remediation with a budget of $35.7 million, of which we have spent $7.1 million at December 31, 2010.  By remediating the site and promoting an urban development we expect to generate a net gain in the disposal of this property.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our San Luis Potosi copper smelter:

 

 

 

 

 

2010(*)

 

2009

 

2008

 

Total copper concentrate smelted

 

(kt)

 

2.7

 

44.1

 

40.9

 

Blister copper production

 

(kt)

 

0.9

 

20.0

 

19.0

 

Silver in blister

 

(oz. per ton)

 

558

 

416

 

360

 

Gold in blister

 

(oz. per ton)

 

3.3

 

2.2

 

2.1

 

Copper average grade in blister

 

(%)

 

95.8

 

95.7

 

96.0

 

Average smelter recovery

 

(%)

 

92.18

 

97.52

 

97.07

 

Average realized price copper blister

 

($ per pound)

 

3.35

 

2.43

 

2.63

 

 


kt = thousand tons

(*) Through March 16, 2010.

 

Zinc Refinery

 

The San Luis Potosi electrolytic zinc refinery was built in 1982.  It was designed to produce 105,000 tons of refined zinc per year by treating up to 200,000 tons of zinc concentrate from our own mines, principally Charcas, which is located 113 kilometers from the refinery.  The refinery produces special high grade zinc (99.995% zinc), high grade zinc (over 99.9% zinc) and zinc-based alloys with aluminum, lead, copper or magnesium in varying quantities and sizes depending on market demand.  Refined silver and gold production is obtained from tolling services provided by Peñoles.

 

The electrolytic zinc refinery’s major equipment includes a roaster with 85 square meters of roasting area, a steam recovery boiler and an acid plant.  There is a calcine processing area with five leaching stages: neutral, hot acid, intermediate acid, acid, purified fourth and jarosite, as well as two stages for solution purifying.  Additionally, the equipment includes a cell house with two electrowinning circuits to finally obtain metallic zinc; an alloy and molding area with two induction furnaces and four molding systems, two of them with chains to produce 25 kilogram ingots; and two casting wheels to manufacture one ton jumbo pieces.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our San Luis Potosi zinc refinery:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Total zinc concentrate treated

 

(kt)

 

184.0

 

193.7

 

179.2

 

Refined zinc produced

 

(kt)

 

95.7

 

98.7

 

95.4

 

Sulfuric acid produced

 

(kt)

 

166.7

 

174.6

 

162.1

 

Refined silver produced

 

(kt)

 

10.2

 

12.8

 

10.0

 

Refined gold produced

 

(k)

 

6.8

 

7.0

 

6.0

 

Refined cadmium produced

 

(kt)

 

0.6

 

0.6

 

0.6

 

Average refinery recovery

 

(%)

 

95.7

 

95.5

 

95.2

 

Average realized price refined zinc

 

($ per lb)

 

1.03

 

0.78

 

0.89

 

Average realized price zinc concentrate

 

($ per lb)

 

 

0.82

 

0.88

 

Average realized price silver

 

($ per oz)

 

22.4

 

16.10

 

13.82

 

 


kt =         thousand tons

 

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Nueva Rosita Coal and Coke Complex

 

The Nueva Rosita coal and coke complex, which began operations in 1924, is located in the state of Coahuila, Mexico on the outskirts of the city of Nueva Rosita near the Texas border.  It includes a) an underground coal mine, which has been closed as a result of an accident in 2006; b) an open-pit mine with a yearly capacity of approximately 350,000 tons of coal; c) a coal washing plant completed in 1998 with a capacity of 900,000 tons per year that produces clean coal of a higher quality; and d) a re-engineered and modernized 21 ovens coke facility capable of producing 100,000 tons of coke per year (metallurgical, nut and fine) of which, 95,000 tons are metallurgical coke.  There is also a by-product plant to clean the coke gas oven in which tar, ammonium sulfate and light crude oil are recovered.  There are also two boilers to produce 80,000 steam pounds that are used in the by-products plant.  The re-engineering and modernization of 21 ovens was completed in April, 2006 and are presently operating with no problems to report.

 

The coke oven installation supplied the San Luis Potosi copper smelter with low-cost coke, resulting in significant cost savings to the smelter.  The production is now sold to Peñoles and other Mexican consumers in northern Mexico.  We expect to sell 65,700 tons of metallurgical coke in 2011.

 

Mine Exploration:

 

During 2010 at Nueva Rosita, 1,213 meters of diamond drilling were performed at the Esperanzas properties.  Through this drilling we identified approximately 0.3 million tons of mineralized material.

 

The table below sets forth 2010, 2009 and 2008 production information for our Nueva Rosita coal and coke complex:

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Coal mined — open-pit

 

(kt)

 

240.5

 

238.2

 

296.8

 

Average BTU content

 

BTU/Lb

 

9,200

 

9,080

 

9,100

 

Average percent sulfur

 

%

 

1.80

 

1.80

 

1.80

 

Clean coal produced

 

(kt)

 

125.6

 

106.2

 

91.5

 

Coke tonnage produced

 

(kt)

 

72.9

 

72.0

 

70.3

 

Average realized price coal

 

($ per ton)

 

39.0

 

38.5

 

27.70

 

Average realized price arsenic clean coal

 

($ per ton)

 

165

 

 

45.00

 

Average realized price coke

 

($ per ton)

 

262.8

 

279.0

 

213.62

 

 


kt = thousand tons

 

ORE RESERVES

 

Ore reserves are those estimated quantities of proven and probable material that may be economically mined and processed for extraction of their mineral content, at the time of the reserve determination. “Proven” (measured) reserves are reserves for which (a) quantity is computed from dimensions revealed in outcrops, trenches, workings or drill holes; (b) grade and/or quality are computed from the results of detailed samplings; and (c) the sites for inspection, sampling and measurement are spaced so closely and the geologic character is so well defined that size, shape, depth and mineral content of reserves are well-established. “Probable” (indicated) reserves are reserves for which quantity and grade and/or quality are computed from information similar to that used for proven (measured) reserves, but the sites for inspection, sampling, and measurement are farther apart or are otherwise less adequately spaced.  The degree of assurance, although lower than that for proven (measured) reserves, is

 

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high enough to assume continuity between points of observation. “Mineralized material,” on the other hand, is a mineralized body that has been delineated by appropriately spaced drilling and/or underground sampling to support the reported tonnage and average grade of metal(s).  Such a deposit does not qualify as a reserve until legal and economic feasibility are concluded based upon a comprehensive evaluation of unit costs, grade, recoveries and other material factors.

 

Our proven and probable ore reserve estimates are based on engineering evaluations of assay values derived from the sampling of drill holes and other openings.  We believe that the samplings taken are spaced at intervals sufficiently close enough and the geological characteristics of the deposits are sufficiently well defined to render the estimates reliable.  The ore reserves estimates include assessments of the resource, mining and metallurgy, as well as economic, marketing, legal, environmental, governmental, social and other necessary considerations.

 

Our Peruvian operations, including the Toquepala and Cuajone reserves, are classified into proven (measured), probable (indicated) and possible (inferred) categories based on a RCB Index (Relative Confidence Bound Index) that measures our level of geologic knowledge and confidence in each block.  The RCB index is a measure of relative confidence in the block grade estimate.  This approach combines the local variability of the composites used to krig a block with the Kriging variance and incorporates the use of confidence intervals in measuring uncertainty of the block estimates relative to each other.  The final resource classification is then based on the distribution of these RCB values for blocks above 0.05% copper.  It is the distribution that is used to find the breaks between proven/probable and probable/possible.

 

Our Mexican operations, including the Buenavista and La Caridad reserves, are calculated using a mathematical block model and applying the MineSight software system. The estimated grades per block are classified as proven and probable.  These grades are calculated applying a three-dimensional interpolation procedure and the inverse distance squared.  Likewise, the quadrant method or spherical search is implemented in order to limit the number of composites that will affect the block’s interpolated value.  The composites data is derived from the geological exploration of the ore body.  In order to classify the individual blocks in the model, a thorough geostatistical variogram analysis is conducted, taking into consideration the principal characteristics of the deposit.  Based on this block model classification, and with the implementation of the Lerch-Grossman algorithm, and the MineSight Pit Optimizer procedure, mineable reserves are determined.  The calculated proven and probable reserves include those blocks that are economically feasible to mine by open-pit method within a particular mine design.

 

For the IMMSA unit, the basis for reserve estimations are sampling of mining operations and drilling exploration, geographical and topographic surveys, tracking down all the foregoing in the corresponding maps, measurement, calculations and interpretation based on the maps and reports from the mines, the mills and/or smelters.  Mineral reserves are mineral stock which is estimated for extraction, to exploit if necessary, to sell or utilize economically, all or in part, taking into consideration the quotations, subsidies, costs, availability of treatment plants and other conditions which we estimate will prevail in the period for which reserves are being calculated.  The reserves are divided into proven (85% reliable or more according to statistical studies) and probable (70-80% reliable or more according to statistical studies) categories according to their level of reliability and availability.  In order to comply with SEC regulations, proven reserves is a classification that can only be used for such mineral found on top of the last level of the mine (either mineral up to 15 meters below the last level or below the first 15 meters only with sufficient drilling (25 or 30 meters between each drill)).

 

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Annually our engineering department reviews in detail the reserve computations.  In addition, our engineering department reviews the computation when changes in assumptions occur.  Changes can occur for price or cost assumptions, results in field drilling or new geotechnical parameters.  We also engage third party consultants to review mine planning procedures.

 

Pursuant to SEC guidance, the reserves information in this report are calculated using average metals prices over the most recent three years unless otherwise stated.  We refer to these three-year average metals prices as “current prices.”  Our current prices for copper are calculated using prices quoted by COMEX, and our current prices for molybdenum are calculated according to Platt’s Metals Week.  Unless otherwise stated, reserves estimates in this report use $2.971 per pound for copper and $18.587 per pound for molybdenum, both current prices as of December 31, 2010.  The current prices for copper and molybdenum were $2.903 and $23.443 as of December 31, 2009 and $3.148 and $28.022 as of December 31, 2008.

 

For internal ore reserve estimation, our management uses long-term metal price assumptions for copper and molybdenum, which are intended to approximate average prices over the long term.  Since December 31, 2009 these price assumptions are $1.80 per pound for copper and $11.00 per pound for molybdenum.  The average metal prices over the last 10 and 15 years periods and the continued positive outlook for these metals have led us to use these prices.

 

For the years 2010, 2009 and 2008, we have used reserves estimates based on current average prices as of the most recent year then ended to determine amortization of mine development and intangible assets.

 

We periodically reevaluate estimates of our ore reserves, which represent our estimate as to the amount of unmined copper remaining in our existing mine locations that can be produced and sold at a profit.  These estimates are based on engineering evaluations derived from samples of drill holes and other openings, combined with assumptions about copper market prices and production costs at each of our mines.

 

The persons responsible for ore reserve calculations are as follows:

 

Peruvian open-pit:

Cuajone mine — Liset F. Vicente, Senior Mine Engineer

Toquepala mine — T. Wilbert Perez, Superintendent Mine Engineering

 

Mexican open-pit:

La Caridad Mine - Marco A. Figueroa, Engineering and Mine Planning Superintendent

Buenavista mine — Jesus Molinares, Engineering and Mine Planning Superintendent

 

IMMSA unit:

Santa Barbara - Jorge M. Espinosa, Planning and Control Superintendent

Charcas - Jose P. Guerrero, Planning and Control Superintendent

Santa Eulalia — Guillermo Garcia, Planning and Control Superintendent

Taxco - Marco A. Gonzalez, Chief of Geology

San Martin - Maria I. Carrillo, Chief Engineer

 

For more information regarding our reserve estimates, please see Item 7 “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations” — “Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates” — “Ore Reserves.”

 

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The table below details our proven and probable copper and molybdenum reserves as estimated at December 31, 2010.

 

 

 

PERUVIAN OPEN-PIT UNIT

 

MEXICAN OPEN-PIT UNIT

 

 

 

 

 

Sensitivity to Change in
metals prices (3)

 

 

 

Cuajone
Mine (1)

 

Toquepala
Mine (1)

 

Buenavista
Mine (1)

 

La Caridad
Mine (1)

 

TOTAL OPEN-
PIT MINES

 

MEXICAN
IMMSA
UNIT (2)

 

Increase
20%

 

Decrease 20%

 

Mineral Reserves

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metal prices:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper ($/lb.)

 

2.971

 

2.971

 

2.971

 

2.971

 

2.971

 

2.971

 

3.565

 

2.377

 

Molybdenum ($/lb.)

 

18.587

 

18.587

 

18.587

 

18.587

 

18.587

 

 

 

22.304

 

14.869

 

Cut-off grade

 

0.149

%

0.157

%

0.114

%

0.126

%

0.131

%

 

 

0.108

%

0.166

%

Proven

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sulfide ore reserves (kt)

 

1,195,706

 

2,822,600

 

4,647,837

 

3,699,834

 

12,365,977

 

18,104

 

13,128,081

 

10,757,828

 

Average grade:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

0.559

%

0.508

%

0.398

%

0.227

%

0.387

%

0.470

%

0.376

%

0.416

%

Molybdenum

 

0.019

%

0.027

%

 

 

0.028

%

0.016

%

 

 

0.016

%

0.035

%

Lead

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.180

%

 

 

 

 

Zinc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.830

%

 

 

 

 

Leachable material (kt)

 

10,374

 

388,423

 

1,320,057

 

267,858

 

1,986,712

 

 

 

1,530,816

 

2,853,339

 

Leachable material grade

 

0.559

%

0.143

%

0.138

%

0.200

%

0.150

%

 

 

0.135

%

0.170

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Probable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sulfide ore reserves (kt)

 

1,430,472

 

707,868

 

1,885,047

 

934,057

 

4,957,444

 

29,422

 

5,521,451

 

4,018,778

 

Average grade:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

0.399

%

0.311

%

0.355

%

0.198

%

0.332

%

0.510

%

0.317

%

0.360

%

Molybdenum

 

0.016

%

0.008

%

 

 

0.028

%

0.011

%

 

 

0.010

%

0.011

%

Lead

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.800

%

 

 

 

 

Zinc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.050

%

 

 

 

 

Leachable material (kt)

 

7,220

 

1,110,184

 

487,435

 

50,986

 

1,655,825

 

 

 

1,511,978

 

1,826,133

 

Leachable material grade

 

0.357

%

0.100

%

0.118

%

0.175

%

0.109

%

 

 

0.094

%

0.131

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sulfide ore reserves (kt)

 

2,626,178

 

3,530,468

 

6,532,884

 

4,633,891

 

17,323,421

 

47,526

 

18,649,532

 

14,776,606

 

Average grade:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

0.472

%

0.468

%

0.385

%

0.221

%

0.371

%

0.495

%

0.358

%

0.401

%

Molybdenum

 

0.017

%

0.023

%

 

 

0.028

%

0.015

%

 

 

0.014

%

0.029

%

Lead

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.945

%

 

 

 

 

Zinc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.966

%

 

 

 

 

Leachable material (kt)

 

17,594

 

1,498,607

 

1,807,492

 

318,844

 

3,642,537

 

 

 

3,042,794

 

4,679,472

 

Leachable material grade

 

0.476

%

0.111

%

0.133

%

0.196

%

0.131

%

 

 

0.115

%

0.155

%

Waste (kt) (5)

 

6,456,790

 

11,048,815

 

6,904,373

 

2,799,636

 

27,209,614

 

 

 

28,649,243

 

25,226,748

 

Total material (kt)

 

9,100,562

 

16,077,890

 

15,244,749

 

7,752,371

 

48,175,572

 

47,526

 

50,341,569

 

44,682,826

 

Stripping ratio

 

2.47

 

3.55

 

1.33

 

0.67

 

1.78

 

 

 

1.70

 

2.02

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leachable material

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reserves in stock (kt)

 

17,289

 

1,168,584

 

711,412

 

597,977

 

2,495,262

 

 

 

2,495,262

 

2,495,262

 

Average copper grade

 

0.509

%

0.151

%

0.124

%

0.249

%

0.169

%

 

 

0.169

%

0.169

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In pit reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proven (kt)

 

10,374

 

388,423

 

1,320,057

 

267,858

 

1,986,712

 

 

 

1,530,816

 

2,853,339

 

Average copper grade

 

0.559

%

0.143

%

0.138

%

0.200

%

0.150

%

 

 

0.135

%

0.170

%

Probable (kt)

 

7,220

 

1,110,184

 

487,435

 

50,986

 

1,655,825

 

 

 

1,511,978

 

1,826,133

 

Average copper grade

 

0.357

%

0.100

%

0.118

%

0.175

%

0.109

%

 

 

0.094

%

0.131

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total leachable reserves (kt)

 

34,883

 

2,667,191

 

2,518,904

 

916,821

 

6,137,799

 

 

 

5,538,056

 

7,174,734

 

Average copper grade

 

0.493

%

0.128

%

0.131

%

0.231

%

0.147

%

 

 

0.139

%

0.160

%

Copper contained in ore reserves in pit(kt) (4)

 

12,479

 

18,186

 

27,556

 

10,866

 

69,087

 

235

 

70,309

 

66,388

 

 


kt = Thousand tons

 

(1)          The Cuajone, Toquepala, Buenavista and La Caridad concentrator recoveries calculated for these reserves were 85.7%, 87.18%, 81.00% and 81.13%, respectively, obtained by using recovery formulas according to the different milling capacity and geo-metallurgical zones.

(2)          The IMMSA unit includes the Charcas, Santa Barbara, San Martin, Santa Eulalia and Taxco mines. Zinc and lead contained in ore reserves are as follows:

 

(in thousand tons) 

 

Proven

 

Probable

 

Total

 

Zinc

 

512

 

897

 

1,409

 

Lead

 

214

 

235

 

449

 

 

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(3)          In preparing the sensitivity analysis, we recalculated our reserves based on the assumption that current average metal prices were 20% higher and 20% lower, respectively, than the actual current average prices for year-end 2010.  Reserve results of this sensitivity analysis are not proportional to the increase or decrease in metal price assumptions.  The analysis above does not include our IMMSA unit’s underground mines, for which the sensitivity analysis is as follows:

 

Sensitivity to 20% Change in Metals Prices

 

 

 

Increase 20%

 

Decrease 20%

 

Sulfide ore reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

Proven(thousands of tons)

 

18,326

 

16,997

 

Average grade copper

 

0.470

%

0.490

%

Copper contained (thousands of tons)

 

86

 

83

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Probable (thousands of tons)

 

29,985

 

27,578

 

Average grade copper

 

0.510

%

0.530

%

Copper contained (thousands of tons)

 

153

 

147

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total (thousands of tons)

 

48,311

 

44,575

 

Average grade copper

 

0.495

%

0.515

%

Copper contained (thousands of tons)

 

239

 

230

 

 

(4)          Copper contained in ore reserves for open-pit mines is (i) the product of sulfide ore reserves and the average copper grade proven plus (ii) the product of sulfide ore reserves and the average copper grade probable plus (iii) the product of in-pit leachable reserves and the average copper grade.  Copper contained in ore reserves for underground mines is the product of sulfide ore reserves and the average copper grade.

 

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The table below details our proven and probable copper and molybdenum reserves as of December 31, 2010, calculated based on long-term price assumptions of $1.80 for copper and $11.00 for molybdenum.

 

 

 

Cuajone
Mine

 

Toquepala
Mine

 

Buenavista
Mine

 

La Caridad
Mine

 

Total
Open-Pit
Mines

 

IMMSA
(1)

 

Mineral Reserves

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metal prices:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper ($/lb.)

 

1.800

 

1.800

 

1.800

 

1.800

 

1.800

 

1.800

 

Molybdenum ($/lb.)

 

11.00

 

11.00

 

11.00

 

11.00

 

11.00

 

11.00

 

Cut-off grade

 

0.203

%

0.251

%

0.213

%

0.220

%

0.223

%

 

 

Proven

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sulfide ore reserves(kt)

 

959,460

 

1,947,165

 

2,866,827

 

2,051,244

 

7,824,696

 

16,071

 

Average grade:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

0.588

%

0.586

%

0.505

%

0.279

%

0.476

%

0.500

%

Molybdenum

 

0.019

%

0.035

%

 

 

0.028

%

0.018

%

 

 

Lead

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.250

%

Zinc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.970

%

Leachable material (kt)

 

8,890

 

1,034,487

 

2,138,350

 

1,067,041

 

4,248,768

 

 

 

Leachable material grade

 

0.597

%

0.214

%

0.209

%

0.170

%

0.201

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Probable

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sulfide ore reserves(kt)

 

923,074

 

164,012

 

1,110,049

 

349,841

 

2,546,976

 

26,481

 

Average grade:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

0.421

%

0.387

%

0.452

%

0.250

%

0.409

%

0.550

%

Molybdenum

 

0.016

%

0.013

%

 

 

0.028

%

0.010

%

 

 

Lead

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.840

%

Zinc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.090

%

Leachable material (kt)

 

5,232

 

1,361,765

 

629,993

 

191,694

 

2,188,684

 

 

 

Leachable material grade

 

0.389

%

0.136

%

0.179

%

0.160

%

0.151

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sulfide ore reserves(kt)

 

1,882,534

 

2,111,177

 

3,976,876

 

2,401,085

 

10,371,672

 

42,552

 

Average grade:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

0.506

%

0.571

%

0.490

%

0.274

%

0.459

%

0.531

%

Molybdenum

 

0.018

%

0.033

%

 

 

0.028

%

0.016

%

 

 

Lead

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

0.995

%

Zinc

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.045

%

Leachable material (kt)

 

14,122

 

2,396,252

 

2,768,343

 

1,258,735

 

6,437,452

 

 

 

Leachable material grade

 

0.520

%

0.170

%

0.202

%

0.168

%

0.184

%

 

 

Waste (kt)

 

4,509,169

 

8,223,027

 

5,866,535

 

1,716,601

 

20,315,332

 

 

 

Total material (kt)

 

6,405,825

 

12,730,456

 

12,611,754

 

5,376,421

 

37,124,456

 

42,552

 

Stripping ratio

 

2.40

 

5.03

 

2.17

 

1.24

 

2.58

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Leachable material

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reserves in stock (kt)

 

17,289

 

1,168,584

 

711,412

 

597,977

 

2,495,262

 

 

 

Average copper grade

 

0.509

%

0.151

%

0.124

%

0.249

%

0.169

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In-pit reserves:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proven (kt)

 

8,890

 

1,034,487

 

2,138,350

 

1,067,041

 

4,248,768

 

 

 

Average copper grade

 

0.597

%

0.214

%

0.209

%

0.170

%

0.201

%

 

 

Probable(kt)

 

5,232

 

1,361,765

 

629,993

 

191,694

 

2,188,684

 

 

 

Average copper grade

 

0.389

%

0.136

%

0.179

%

0.160

%

0.151

%

 

 

Total leachable reserves

 

31,411

 

3,564,836

 

3,479,755

 

1,856,712

 

8,932,714

 

 

 

Average copper grade

 

0.514

%

0.164

%

0.186

%

0.194

%

0.180

%

 

 

Copper contained in ore reserves (kt) (2)

 

9,599

 

16,128

 

25,079

 

8,694

 

59,500

 

226

 

 


(kt) = Thousand tons

(1)          The IMMSA unit includes the Charcas, Santa Barbara, San Martin, Santa Eulalia and Taxco mines. Zinc and lead contained in ore reserves are as follows:

 

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Table of Contents

 

(in thousand tons) 

 

Proven

 

Probable

 

Total

 

Zinc

 

477

 

818

 

1,296

 

Lead

 

201

 

222

 

423

 

 

(2)          Copper contained in ore reserves for open-pit mines is (i) the product of sulfide ore reserves and the average copper grade plus (ii) the product of in-pit leachable reserves and the average grade of copper.  Copper contained in ore reserves for underground mines is the product of sulfide ore reserves and the average copper grade.

 

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OVERVIEW OF BLOCK MODEL RECONCILIATION PROCESS

 

We apply the following block model to mill reconciliation procedure.

 

The following stages are identified at the Cuajone, Toquepala, Buenavista and La Caridad mines:

 

1.               The mine geologists gather the necessary monthly statistical data from our information system (“SRP”), which provides ore tons milled and ore grades in the concentrator.

2.               Mined areas are topographically determined and related boundaries are built.

3.               Using the “interactive planner” option in our mining software (Minesight), ore tons and grades are calculated inside mined areas over the block model.  At this point the current cut-off grade is considered.

4.               In the final stage, accumulated tons mined, weighted average grade for ore material and leach is compared with data coming from our SRP system.

 

Tonnage and grade reconciliation for 2010 are as follows:

 

 

 

Long Range Model

 

Mill

 

Variance

 

Mine

 

Tons
(thousands)

 

% Copper

 

Tons
(thousands)

 

% Copper

 

Tons
(thousands)

 

% Copper

 

Cuajone

 

31,762

 

0.596

%

31,461

 

0.598

%

301

 

(0.002

)%

Toquepala

 

20,423

 

0.673

%

21,654

 

0.678

%

(1,231

)

(0.005

)%

Buenavista

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

La Caridad

 

32,617

 

0.345

%

33,344

 

0.350

%

(727

)

(0.005

)%

 


(*) In 2010, the Buenavista mine was on strike through June and the mill was not restored to production until the end of the year.

 

If the estimation error appears greater than 3%, a detailed evaluation is done to review the differences, which normally could result in more in-fill drilling, in order to better understand the geological characteristics (grade, rock type, mineralization and alteration) and the spacing of drill holes which are considered in the ore body zone.

 

AVERAGE DRILL-HOLE SPACING

 

The following is the average drill-hole spacing for proven and probable sulfide reserves as of December 31, 2010:

 

 

 

Proven

 

Probable

 

 

 

(average spacing in meters)

 

Cuajone

 

83.96

 

121.42

 

Toquepala

 

76.96

 

117.35

 

Buenavista

 

51.96

 

100.94

 

La Caridad

 

41.50

 

100.20

 

 

ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

Reference is made to the information under the caption “Litigation Matters” in the consolidated financial statement Note 15 “Commitments and contingencies.”

 

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PART II

 

ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

 

SCC COMMON STOCK:

 

SCC’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and the Lima Stock Exchange (“BVL”).  Effective February 17, 2010, SCC’s common stock symbol changed from PCU to SCCO on both the NYSE and the BVL.  At December 31, 2010, there were 2,694 holders of record of our common stock.  The Company’s common stock commenced trading on NYSE and BVL on January 5, 1996.

 

DIVIDEND AND STOCK MARKET PRICES:

 

The table below sets forth the cash dividends paid per share of capital stock and the high and low stock prices on both the NYSE and the BVL for the periods indicated.

 

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Quarters

 

1st

 

2nd

 

3rd

 

4th

 

Year

 

1st

 

2nd

 

3rd

 

4th

 

Year

 

Dividend per Share

 

$

0.43

 

$

0.45

 

$

0.37

 

$

0.43

 

$

1.68

 

$

0.12

 

$

0.04

 

$

0.10

 

$

0.18

 

$

0.44

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock market Price

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NYSE:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

High

 

$

36.30

 

$

35.11

 

$

35.17

 

$

48.84

 

$

48.84

 

$

19.03

 

$

24.91

 

$

31.44

 

$

36.40

 

$

36.40

 

Low

 

$

26.63

 

$

26.19

 

$

26.44

 

$

35.42

 

$

26.19

 

$

12.74

 

$

17.04

 

$

19.04

 

$

29.11

 

$

12.74

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BVL:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

High

 

$

36.20

 

$

35.00

 

$

35.00

 

$

49.13

 

$

49.13

 

$

19.20

 

$

25.05

 

$

31.50

 

$

36.21

 

$

36.21

 

Low

 

$

26.71

 

$

26.30

 

$

26.60

 

$

35.40

 

$

26.30

 

$

12.63

 

$

17.18

 

$

18.90

 

$

29.35

 

$

12.63

 

 

On January 27, 2011, a dividend of 58 cents per share was announced payable March 1, 2011 to shareholders of record as of February 15, 2011.  Our dividend policy continues to be reviewed at Board of Directors’ meetings, taking into consideration the current intensive capital investment program and expected future cash flow generated from operations.

 

For a description of limitations on our ability to make dividend distributions, see “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations — “Liquidity and Capital Resources” and Note 12 “Financing” to our consolidated financial statements.

 

DIRECTORS’ STOCK AWARD PLAN

 

The following table sets forth certain information related to our shares held as treasury stock for the Directors stock award plan at December 31, 2010:

 

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Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

Plan Category

 

Number of securities
to be issued upon
exercise of
outstanding options

 

Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options

 

Number of securities
remaining available
for future issuance

 

 

 

(a)

 

(b)

 

(c)

 

Directors’ stock award plan

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

343,200

 

 

For additional information see “Note 16 — Stockholders Equity — Directors’ Stock Award Plan.”

 

SCC COMMON STOCK REPURCHASE PLAN:

 

Pursuant to the $500 million share repurchase program authorized by the Company’s Board of Directors in 2008, the Company has purchased 33.4 million shares of its common stock at a total cost of $457.0 million as shown below.  These shares will be available for general corporate purposes.  The Company may purchase additional shares from time to time, based on market conditions and other factors.  This repurchase program has no expiration date and may be modified or discontinued at any time.

 

The following table summarizes the repurchase program activity since its inception in 2008:

 

Period

 

Total
Number of
Shares

 

Average
Price
Paid
per

 

Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of
Publicly

 

Maximum Number
of Shares that
May Yet Be
Purchased Under
the Plan

 

Total
Cost
($ in

 

From

 

To

 

Purchased

 

Share

 

Announced Plan

 

@ $48.74

 

millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2008:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

08/11/08

 

12/31/08

 

28,510,150

 

$

13.49

 

28,510,150

 

 

 

$

384.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2009:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

01/12/09

 

09/30/09

 

4,912,000

 

14.64

 

33,422,150

 

 

 

71.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

05/05/10

 

05/05/10

 

13,200

 

28.75

 

33,435,350

 

 

 

0.4

 

08/12/10

 

08/12/10

 

1,200

 

29.33

 

33,436,550

 

 

 

(*

)

10/14/10

 

10/14/10

 

1,200

 

40.34

 

33,437,750

 

 

 

(*

)

 

 

 

 

15,600

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total purchased

 

33,437,750

 

$

13.67

 

 

 

881,777

 

$

457.0

 

 


(*) — Less than $0.1 million.

 

As a result of the repurchase of shares of SCC’s common stock and AMC’s purchase of shares of SCC’s common stock, Grupo Mexico’s direct and indirect ownership increased to 80% at March 31, 2009 and remains at 80% as of December 31, 2010.

 

SHAREHOLDER RETURN PERFORMANCE PRESENTATION

 

Set forth below is a line graph comparing the yearly change in the cumulative total returns on the Company’s common stock against cumulative total return on the S&P 500 Stock Index and the S&P Metals and Mining Select Industry Index, for the five year period ending December 31, 2010.  The chart below analyzes the total return on SCC’s

 

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common stock for the period commencing  December 31, 2005 and ending December 31, 2010, compared with the total return of the S&P 500 and the S&P Metals and Mining Select Industry Index for the same five-year period.  In 2006, SCC’s stock provided a positive return of 74.99% compared with 13.62% for the S&P 500 and 33.83% for S&P Metals and Mining Select Industry Index.  In 2007, SCC’s stock provided a positive return of 115.34% compared with 3.53% for S&P 500 and 41.71% for S&P Metals and Mining Select Industry Index.  In 2008, SCC´s stock had a negative return of 50.65%, compared with negative returns of 38.49% and 60.02% for the S&P 500 and for S&P Metals and Mining Select Industry Index.  In 2009, SCC´s stock had a positive return of 108.54%, compared with positive returns of 23.45% and 85.59% for the S&P 500 and for S&P Metals and Mining Select Industry Index, respectively.  In 2010, SCC’s stock had a positive return of 55.85% compared with positive returns of 12.78% and 95.52% for the S&P 500 and the S&P Metals and Mining Industry Index, respectively.

 

Comparison of Five Year Cumulative Total Return *

SCC Stock, S&P 500 Index and S&P Metals and Mining Select Industry Index **

 

 

* Total return assumes reinvestment of dividends

** The comparison assumes $100 invested on December 31, 2005

 

The foregoing Performance Graph and related information shall not be deemed “soliciting material” or “filed” with the SEC or subject to Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, nor shall such information be incorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or Securities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent that the Company specifically incorporates it by reference into such filing.

 

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ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

FIVE-YEAR SELECTED FINANCIAL AND STATISTICAL DATA

 

The selected historical financial data presented below as of and for the five years ended December 31, 2010, includes certain information that has been derived from our consolidated financial statements.  The selected financial data should be read in conjunction with Item 7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” and the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto.

 

(In millions, except per share amounts, stock and financial ratios)

 

 

 

Years Ended December 31,

 

Statement of Earnings Data 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

5,149.5

 

$

3,734.3

 

$

4,850.8

 

$

6,085.7

 

$

5,460.2

 

Operating income

 

2,604.2

 

1,485.1

 

2,201.9

 

3,497.4

 

3,054.3

 

Net income

 

1,562.7

 

934.6

 

1,414.5

 

2,226.6

 

2,046.9

 

Net income attributable to:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-controlling interest

 

8.7

 

5.2

 

7.9

 

10.2

 

9.3

 

Southern Copper Corporation

 

$

1,554.0

 

$

929.4

 

$

1,406.6

 

$

2,216.4

 

$

2,037.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Per share amounts: (1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings basic and diluted

 

$

1.83

 

$

1.09

 

$

1.60

 

$

2.51

 

$

2.31

 

Dividends paid

 

$

1.68

 

$

0.44

 

$

1.94

 

$

2.27

 

$

1.71

 

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

Balance Sheet Data 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

2,192.7

 

$

772.3

 

$

716.7

 

$

1,409.3

 

$

1,022.8

 

Total assets

 

8,128.0

 

6,058.2

 

5,764.3

 

6,580.6

 

6,376.4

 

Total long-term debt, including current portion

 

2,760.4

 

1,280.3

 

1,290.0

 

1,449.8

 

1,528.1

 

Total liabilities

 

4,217.6

 

2,164.6

 

2,368.9

 

2,715.8

 

2,695.8

 

Total equity

 

$

3,910.4

 

$

3,893.7

 

$

3,395.4

 

$

3,864.8

 

$

3,680.6

 

 

 

 

Years Ended December 31,

 

Statement of Cash Flows

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash provided from operating activities

 

$

1,920.7

 

$

963.2

 

$

1,728.3

 

$

2,703.5

 

$

2,059.3

 

Depreciation, amortization and depletion

 

323.2

 

322.6

 

327.3

 

327.9

 

275.1

 

Cash used for investing activities

 

(473.8

)

(359.3

)

(418.6

)

(246.0

)

(725.3

)

Capital expenditures

 

(408.7

)

(414.8

)

(524.4

)

(315.7

)

(455.8

)

Cash provided from (used for) financing activities

 

36.6

 

(458.0

)

(2,048.0

)

(2,088.3

)

(1,164.3

)

Dividends paid

 

(1,428.0

)

(376.0

)

(1,710.8

)

(2,002.3

)

(1,509.1

)

 

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Table of Contents

 

 

 

Years Ended December 31,

 

Capital Stock (1) 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common shares outstanding — basic and diluted (in thousands)

 

850,000

 

850,000

 

854,900

 

883,397

 

883,384

 

NYSE Price — high

 

$

48.84

 

$

36.40

 

$

41.34

 

$

47.12

 

$

19.37

 

NYSE Price — low

 

$

26.19

 

$

12.74

 

$

9.19

 

$

16.84

 

$

11.55

 

Book value per share

 

4.58

 

4.56

 

3.96

 

4.36

 

4.15

 

P/E ratio

 

26.66

 

30.12

 

10.03

 

14.05

 

7.79

 

 

 

 

Years Ended December 31,

 

Financial Ratios 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross margin(2)

 

53.0

%

42.5

%

48.3

%

59.7

%

58.0

%

Operating income margin(3)

 

50.6

%

39.8

%

45.4

%

57.5

%

55.9

%

Net margin(4)

 

30.2

%

24.9

%

29.0

%

36.4

%

37.3

%

Current assets to current liabilities

 

3.25

 

2.97

 

2.11

 

2.84

 

2.84

 

Net debt(5)/total capitalization(6)

 

12.7

%

11.5

%

14.4

%

1.0

%

12.1

%

Ratio of earnings to fixed charges(7)

 

15.5

x

15.1

x

20.8

x

25.4

x

27.2

x

 


(1)                  Per share amounts reflect earnings and dividends of Southern Copper Corporation. Numbers of shares and values per share have been adjusted to reflect the 2008 and 2006 stock splits.

(2)                  Represents net sales less cost of sales (including depreciation, amortization and depletion), divided by net sales as a percentage.

(3)                  Represents operating income divided by sales as a percentage.

(4)                  Represents net income divided by net sales as a percentage.

(5)                  Net debt is defined as total debt minus cash and cash equivalents balance.  Please see Item 7. Management Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, “Financing Section.”

(6)                 Represents net debt divided by net debt plus equity.

(7)                  Represents earnings divided by fixed charges.  Earnings are defined as earnings before income taxes, non-controlling interest and cumulative effect of change in accounting principle, plus fixed charges and amortization of interest capitalized, less interest capitalized.  Fixed charges are defined as the sum of interest expense and interest capitalized, plus amortized premiums, discounts and capitalized expenses related to indebtedness.

 

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ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

 

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations relates to and should be read together with our Audited Consolidated Financial Statements as of and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010.  Therefore, unless otherwise noted, the discussion below of our financial condition and results of operations is for us, including our Minera Mexico subsidiary, on a consolidated basis for all periods.  Our financial results may not be indicative of our future results.

 

This discussion contains forward-looking statements that are based on management’s current expectations, estimates and projections about our business and operations.  Our actual results may differ materially from those currently anticipated and expressed in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of factors.  See Item 1 “Business” - “Cautionary Statement.”

 

EXECUTIVE OVERVIEW

 

Business:  Our business is primarily the production and sale of copper.  In the process of producing copper, a number of valuable metallurgical by-products are recovered, which we also produce and sell.  Market forces outside of our control largely determine the sale prices for our products.  Our management, therefore, focuses on copper production, cost control, production enhancement and maintaining a prudent capital structure to remain profitable.  We endeavor to achieve these goals through capital spending programs, exploration efforts and cost reduction programs.  Our aim is to remain profitable during periods of low copper prices and to maximize financial performance in periods of high copper prices.

 

We are one of the world’s largest copper mining companies in terms of production and sales with our principal operations in Peru and Mexico.  We also have an active ongoing exploration program in Chile.  In addition to copper we produce significant amounts of other metals, either as a by-product of the copper process or in a number of dedicated mining facilities in Mexico.  In 2010 approximately 73% of our revenues came from the sale of copper, 13% from molybdenum, 6% from silver and 8% from various other products, including zinc, gold and other materials.

 

We believe that our greatest strength lies in our copper ore reserves, which at December 31, 2010 totaled 59.7 million tons of contained copper, calculated at a copper price of $1.80 per pound (as of December 31, 2010 the LME and COMEX copper price was $4.42).  In terms of copper reserves, we believe we hold the world’s largest reserve position.

 

Our other significant strengths include our asset quality, our low cost leadership in the industry and our prudent financial policies, which are reflected in our financial performance.

 

AMC — Business Combination Proposal: In July 2010, we received a proposal from AMC, our parent company and the parent company of Asarco, offering to effect an all stock business combination of our Company and AMC.  A special committee formed from our independent directors is evaluating this proposal.  Please see Note 2 to our financial statements, for further information.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Outlook:  Various key factors will affect our outcome.  These include, but are not limited to, some of the following:

 

·          In 2010, we finally solved the illegal work stoppage at Cananea that had been plaguing our Mexican operations since 2007.  To reflect what we believe is a new beginning for this property, we have renamed the entity Buenavista del Cobre or Buenavista.  SXEW production at this property reached capacity in the fourth quarter of 2010 and we expect to reach full concentrator capacity in the first quarter of 2011.

 

·          Changes in copper and molybdenum prices.  Copper represents about 73% of our sales. Molybdenum, our most significant by-product, represents about 13% of our sales.  We believe the market for copper in 2011 will be in deficit as increased demand will exceed increases in supply.  In addition, we are expecting a balanced market for molybdenum.

 

·          We expect that the 2011 production of copper will be approximately 630,000 tons, an increase of 26% over 2010.  This estimate includes the restoration of Buenavista’s production at full capacity after the first quarter 2011 and the processing of third party concentrates.

 

·          We expect molybdenum production in 2011 to be about 17,000 tons, a decrease from 2010 production due to a 9% decrease in production at our Peruvian mines because of a temporary decrease in ore grades.

 

·          In 2011, we will continue with our capital investment program. We have budgeted $1.7 billion in spending for the year.  Spending in Peru is estimated to be $862 million and in Mexico $881 million.  This investment is part of our five year capital expenditure program to increase production of copper and molybdenum.

 

Earnings: The table below highlights key financial and operational data of our Company for the three years ended December 31, 2010:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales (in millions)

 

$

5,150

 

$

3,734

 

$

4,851

 

Net income attributable to SCC (in millions)

 

$

1,554

 

$

929

 

$

1,407

 

Earnings per share

 

$

1.83

 

$

1.09

 

$

1.60

 

Dividends per share

 

$

1.68

 

$

0.44

 

$

1.94

 

Average LME copper price

 

$

3.42

 

$

2.34

 

$

3.16

 

Pounds of copper sold (in millions)

 

1,106

 

1,118

 

1,115

 

 

Sales and net income increased significantly in 2010 from the prior year.  Prices of copper and our principal by-products were all higher in 2010 and were trending higher at year end.  The 2010 sales volumes were generally lower for most of our products, copper was 1% lower than the prior year and silver and zinc were lower by 15% and 9.5%, respectively.  Molybdenum sales volume, however, was over 10% higher in 2010 than the prior year, offsetting much of the decrease caused by the lower volume of other metals.  Earnings increased by 67% in 2010 as a result of the increase in metal prices.  Metal prices for the first month of 2011 continued to improve and we are confident that the outlook for 2011 is promising.  However, while we believe that the market fundamentals for copper are strong, some caution should be exercised.  Current copper inventories in the principal warehouses have increased in recent months and there exists strong price volatility in the metals market and particularly in copper.  Considering this, as well as our large capital investment program, we have put in place a significant price protection program for 2011 and the first quarter of 2012.  Please see Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk, “Copper Swaps”, on page 112 for more detailed information related to this price protection.

 

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Production: The table below highlights key mine production data of our Company for the three years ended December 31, 2010:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Copper mined (in million pounds)

 

1,055

 

1,070

 

1,078

 

Molybdenum mined (in million pounds)

 

45

 

41

 

36

 

Zinc mined (in million pounds)

 

219

 

243

 

236

 

Silver mined (in million ounces)

 

13

 

13

 

12

 

 

Copper mined in 2010 was 15 million pounds under the 2009 copper mine production.  A net decrease at our Peruvian mines of 43 million pounds, largely from lower grade at the Cuajone mine and a decrease of 17 million pounds from La Caridad mine, due to lower grades and recoveries, were partially offset by 46 million pounds of SXEW production from the Buenavista mine, which began restoring operations in the second half of 2010.  Full capacity is expected to be reached by the end of the first quarter of 2011.  This includes concentrate production along with our SXEW production.  In 2009, Buenavista was completely shutdown.

 

Molybdenum production reached a record level in 2010.  Production increased by approximately 4 million pounds in 2010 due primarily to grade and recovery increases at the La Caridad and Toquepala mines.

 

Zinc production, which comes from our IMMSA unit in Mexico, decreased by 24 million pounds in 2010 due principally to the lower production at the Santa Eulalia mine as a result of unusually heavy rains, which caused flooding in the area and disrupted production.  We have a rehabilitation program for Santa Eulalia, which includes a pumping system with a total budget of $12.9 million. We expect to restore full mine production by October 2011.

 

Our silver production decreased 4.2% in 2010, due to decreases at our operations in Mexico and Peru.

 

Copper mined in 2009 was about 8 million pounds under the 2008 copper mine production.  A net increase at our Peruvian mines of 11 million pounds, largely from improved recovery and higher grade at the Toquepala mine, plus an increase of 15 million pounds from La Caridad mine, due to higher recoveries and grades, was offset by production losses due to the Buenavista strike.  In 2008, we were able to produce 34 million of copper at Buenavista during the early part of the year.  In 2009, Buenavista was completely shutdown.  Molybdenum production increased by approximately 5 million pounds in 2009 due primarily to an increase of approximately 5 million pounds at La Caridad, due to grade and recovery increases.  Zinc production, which is from our IMMSA unit, increased by 7 million pounds in 2009.  Silver production increased 7.2% in 2009, with increases occurring at our operations in Mexico and Peru.

 

Buenavista mine: Operations at our Buenavista mine are being restored to full capacity after being closed for almost three years because of the strike.  Full capacity of SXEW was restored in the fourth quarter 2010 and full capacity of the concentrator is being restored in the first quarter of 2011.  Through December 31, 2010 we spent $70.9 million for the rehabilitation of the mine and plant and we expect to spend an additional $43.1 million in 2011.  We anticipate that a portion of these costs will be recovered from insurance.

 

The recovery of the Buenavista mine allows us to resume the development of our capital investment projects at the property, which includes a concentrator expansion, a third and a fourth SXEW plants, a molybdenum plant and the Quebalix III, a crushing, spreading and conveying system at the mine.

 

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Tia Maria project:  In connection with obtaining approval of the EIA of the project, additional information, including the use of sea water, was submitted to the government.  On December 1, 2010, MINEM approved a communication plan with new options to use to inform the details of EIA to the local communities.  We completed the communication plan in January 2011, which included the opening of three information offices in the communities that would be mostly impacted by the project and we held four informative meetings with citizens of the local communities. In addition, advertisements explaining the project were placed in local newspapers, as well as on local television and radio stations.  On February 1, 2011, we filed a report with MINEM indicating full completion of the program.  The observation and comment period for the local and community members and other stakeholders, including environmentalist and non-governmental organizations, expires on March 2, 2011 and we expect to receive approval of the EIA during the second quarter of 2011.  Construction work is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2011 and copper production will start by the fourth quarter of 2012.  Based on the current developments of the project we have performed an impairment analysis of the project assets and we have concluded that no impairment exists as of December 31, 2010.

 

KEY MATTERS

 

We discuss below several matters that we believe are important to understand our results of operations and financial condition.  These include, (i) our “operating cash costs” as a measure of our performance, (ii) metal prices, (iii) business segments, (iv) the effect of inflation and other local currency issues and (v) our capital investment programs.

 

Operating Cash Costs

 

An overall benchmark used by us and a common industry metric to measure performance is operating cash costs per pound of copper produced.  Operating cash cost is a non-GAAP measure that does not have a standardized meaning and may not be comparable to similarly titled measures provided by other companies.  A reconciliation of our operating cash cost per pound to the cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) as presented in the consolidated statement of earnings is presented under the subheading, “Non-GAAP Information Reconciliation,” below.

 

We have defined operating cash cost per pound as cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion), less the cost of purchased concentrates, plus selling, general and administrative charges, treatment and refining charges, net revenue (loss) on sale of metal purchased from third parties and by-products revenues, and sales premiums, less workers’ participation and other miscellaneous charges, including the Peruvian royalty charge and the change in inventory levels; divided by total pounds of copper produced by our own mines.  In our calculation of operating cash cost per pound of copper produced, we credit against our costs the revenues from the sale of by-products, principally molybdenum, zinc, silver and the premium over market price that we receive on copper sales.  We account for the by-product revenue in this way because we consider our principal business to be the production and sale of copper.  We believe that our Company is viewed by the investment community as a copper company, and is valued, in large part, by the investment community’s view of the copper market and our ability to produce copper at a reasonable cost.  We also include copper sales premiums as a credit, as these amounts are in excess of published copper prices.  The increase in recent years in the price of molybdenum, as well as increases in silver and zinc, has had a significant effect on our traditional calculation of cash cost and its comparability between periods.  Accordingly, we present cash costs with and without crediting the by-product revenues against our costs.

 

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We exclude the cost of purchases of third party copper material.  From time to time we purchase copper concentrates on the open market in order to maximize the use of our smelter capacity or to take advantage of an attractive market situation.  We view these purchases on an incremental basis and measure the results incrementally.  We find that the inclusion of these purchases with our own production often creates a distortion in our unit cost.  Accordingly, we include only the net effect of these purchases, so that only the net revenue or loss from the transaction is included in the calculation.  We believe this will allow others to see a truer presentation of our cash cost.

 

In addition, we exclude from our calculation of operating cash cost depreciation, amortization and depletion, which are considered non-cash expenses.  Exploration is considered a discretionary expenditure and is also excluded.  Workers’ participation provisions are determined on the basis of pre-tax earnings and are also excluded.  Additionally excluded from operating cash costs are items of a non-recurring nature and the royalty charges.

 

Our operating cash costs per pound, as defined, are presented in the table below for the three years ended December 31, 2010.  We present cash costs with and without the inclusion of by-product revenues.

 

 

 

Year

 

Positive (negative)
Variance

 

(Cents per pound)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

2010-2009

 

2009-2008

 

Operating cash cost per pound of copper produced

 

16.8

 

35.8

 

21.8

 

19.0

 

(14.0

)

Less: by-products revenue

 

134.1

 

100.1

 

135.3

 

34.0

 

(35.2

)

Operating cash cost per pound of copper produced without by-products revenue

 

150.9

 

135.9

 

157.1

 

(15.0

)

21.2

 

 

2010 compared with 2009:

 

As seen on the chart above, our cash cost per pound for 2010 when calculated with by-products revenue is 16.8 cents per pound compared with 35.8 cents per pound in 2009.  The increase in the by-products credit in the 2010 period was largely due to higher sales prices for molybdenum, silver and zinc and a record molybdenum production in 2010.  The increase in the credit for molybdenum was 29.0 cents per pound in 2010, of which 19.0 cents was due to higher prices.

 

Our per pound cash cost, excluding by-product revenues, was higher by 15.0 cents per pound in 2010 compared with 2009 principally due to an increase of 13.5 cents per pound in production cost, mainly power and fuel cost due to increased market prices, labor due to salary increases, local currency appreciation and repair costs.

 

2009 compared with 2008:

 

As seen on the chart above, our cash cost per pound for 2009 when calculated with by-products revenue is 35.8 cents per pound compared with 21.8 cents per pound in 2008.  The decrease in the by-products credit in the 2009 period was largely due to lower molybdenum prices.  The effect of lower molybdenum prices reduced the by-products credit by approximately 30.7 cents per pound for 2009.

 

Our per pound cash cost, excluding by-product revenues, was lower by 21.2 cents per pound in 2009 compared with 2008 due to a decrease of 19.4 cents per pound in production cost as result of the modernization of our equipment and the lower power and fuel cost, which decreased cash cost by 15.9 cents.

 

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Metal Prices

 

The profitability of our operations is dependent on, and our financial performance is significantly affected by, the international market prices for the products we produce, especially for copper, molybdenum, zinc and silver.  Metals prices historically have been subject to wide fluctuations and are affected by numerous factors beyond our control.  These factors, which affect each commodity to varying degrees, include international economic and political conditions, levels of supply and demand, the availability and cost of substitutes, inventory levels maintained by producers and others and, to a lesser degree, inventory carrying costs and currency exchange rates.  In addition, the market prices of certain metals have on occasion been subject to rapid short-term changes due to speculative activities.

 

We are subject to market risks arising from the volatility of copper and other metals prices.  Assuming that expected metal production and sales are achieved, that tax rates are unchanged and giving no effects to actual or potential hedging programs, metal price sensitivity factors would indicate the estimated change in net earnings resulting from metal price changes in 2011 as provided in the table below:

 

 

 

Copper

 

Molybdenum

 

Zinc

 

Silver

 

Change in metal prices (per pound except silver — per ounce)

 

$

0.01

 

$

1.00

 

$

0.01

 

$

1.00

 

Change in net earnings (in millions)

 

$

7.6

 

$

21.1

 

$

1.1

 

$

7.7

 

 

Business Segments

 

We view our Company as having three operating segments and manage it on the basis of these segments.  These segments are (1) our Peruvian operations, (2) our Mexican open-pit operations and (3) our Mexican underground operations, known as our IMMSA unit.  Our Peruvian operations include the Toquepala and Cuajone mine complexes and the smelting and refining plants, industrial railroad and port facilities which service both mines.  The Peruvian operations produce copper, with significant by-product production of molybdenum, silver and other material.  Our Mexican open-pit operations include La Caridad and the Buenavista mine complexes and the smelting and refining plants and support facilities, which service both mines.  The Mexican open-pit operations produce copper, with significant by-product production of molybdenum, silver and other material.  Our IMMSA unit includes five underground mines that produce zinc, lead, copper, silver and gold, a coal mine which produces coal and coke, and a zinc refinery.

 

Segment information is included in our review of “Results of Operations” and also in Note 21 “Segment and related information” of our consolidated financial statements.

 

Inflation and Devaluation of the Peruvian Nuevo Sol and the Mexican Peso

 

Our functional currency is the U.S. dollar.  Portions of our operating costs are denominated in Peruvian nuevos soles and Mexican pesos.  Since our revenues are primarily denominated in U.S. dollars, when inflation/deflation in Peru or Mexico is not offset by a change in the exchange rate of the nuevo sol or the peso, respectively, to the dollar, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected to the extent that the inflation/devaluation effects are passed onto us by our suppliers or reflected in our wage adjustments.  In addition, the dollar value of our net monetary assets denominated in nuevos soles or pesos can be affected by devaluation of the nuevo sol or the peso, resulting in a remeasurement loss in our financial statements.  Recent inflation and devaluation rates are provided in the table below.

 

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Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Peru

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peruvian inflation rate

 

2.1

%

0.2

%

6.6

%

Nuevo sol/dollar devaluation/(appreciation) rate

 

(2.8

)%

(8.0

)%

4.8

%

Mexico

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexican inflation rate

 

4.4

%

3.6

%

6.5

%

Peso/dollar devaluation/(appreciation) rate

 

(5.4

)%

(3.5

)%

24.5

%

 

Capital Investment Program

 

We made capital expenditures of $408.7 million, $414.8 million and $524.4 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.  In general, the capital expenditures and investment projects described below are intended to increase production and/or decrease costs.

 

The table below sets forth our capital expenditures for the three years ended December 31, 2010 (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Peruvian projects:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tia Maria — Arequipa

 

$

152.5

 

$

162.0

 

$

118.0

 

Toquepala concentrator expansion

 

32.8

 

52.6

 

37.7

 

Cuajone concentrator expansion

 

18.8

 

4.3

 

18.2

 

Tailings disposal — Quebrada Honda dam

 

3.3

 

5.6

 

21.7

 

Ilo smelter modernization (including marine trestle)

 

1.6

 

10.2

 

6.6

 

Sub-total projects

 

209.0

 

234.7

 

202.2

 

Maintenance and replacement

 

55.2

 

49.7

 

100.3

 

Total Peruvian expenditures

 

264.2

 

284.4

 

302.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexican projects:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Buenavista mine rehabilitation and benefit plant

 

35.0

 

 

 

El Arco feasibility study, land and water rights

 

14.1

 

10.4

 

3.9

 

La Caridad tailings dam — Internal dikes

 

4.3

 

2.2

 

2.1

 

Santa Eulalia pumping system

 

3.2

 

0.6

 

 

La Caridad concentrator plant expansion

 

0.3

 

0.2

 

 

Pilares mine (including land acquisition)

 

0.2

 

0.7

 

20.0

 

Buenavista SXEW plant II

 

0.4

 

 

 

Buenavista crusher and conveyors system for leach material, phases I and II

 

0.4

 

 

13.6

 

La Caridad crusher high efficiency system

 

 

 

2.8

 

San Luis Potosi effluent plant

 

 

4.9

 

 

Sub-total projects

 

57.9

 

19.0

 

42.4

 

Maintenance and replacement

 

86.7

 

111.4

 

179.5

 

Total Mexican expenditures

 

144.6

 

130.4

 

221.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total capital expenditures

 

$

408.8

 

$

414.8

 

$

524.4

 

 

We are committed to continuing the growth of our Company.  In 2011, we will continue with our capital investment program.  We have budgeted $1.7 billion in spending for the year.  Spending in Peru is estimated to be $862 million and in Mexico $881 million.  This investment is part of our five year capital investment program to increase production of copper and molybdenum.  Capital spending plans will continue to be reviewed and adjusted in response to changes in the economy or market conditions.

 

We expect to meet the cash requirements for these projects from cash on hand, internally generated funds and from additional external financing if required.

 

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Peruvian operations:

 

Tia Maria project: This project, located in the Peruvian region of Arequipa, is expected to produce about 260 million pounds of SXEW copper cathodes per year.  In connection with obtaining approval of the EIA of the project, additional information, including the use of sea water, was submitted to the government.  On December 1, 2010, MINEM approved a communication plan with new options to use to inform the details of EIA to the local communities.  We completed the communication plan in January 2011, which included the opening of three information offices in the communities that would be mostly impacted by the project and we held four informative meetings with citizens of the local communities.  In addition, advertisements explaining the project were placed in local newspapers, as well as on local television and radio stations.  On February 1, 2011, we filed a report with MINEM indicating full completion of the program.  The observation and comment period for the local and community members and other stakeholders, including environmentalist and non-governmental organizations, expires on March 2, 2011 and we expect to receive approval of the EIA during the second quarter of 2011.  Construction work is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2011 and copper production is expected to start by the fourth quarter of 2012.  Current investment in the project is focused on the development of engineering studies for the mine facilities and on the purchase of equipment for copper extraction processes.  We estimate a total investment of $934.0 million of which $432.5 million was spent through December 31, 2010.

 

Toquepala concentrator expansion:  Through 2010, we have spent a total of $123.1 million on the Toquepala concentrator expansion.  The approval of the use of high pressure grinding rolls (HPGR) and wet screening at the tertiary crushing stage will reduce capital and operating cost.  The scope of the project is currently under review as we are evaluating an increase in milling capacity of 60,000 tons per day from the 40,000 tons per day originally planned.  As a result of this review, the EIA is expected to be presented during the second quarter of 2011 and the project start-up in the first half of 2013.

 

Cuajone concentrator expansion: This project will expand the concentrator to process 105,000 tons per day and has a total capital budget of $301 million, of which we have spent $41.3 million through December 31, 2010.  Increased production from this expansion project will begin in the second half of 2011.  The purchase of mine and auxiliary equipment to support the work to optimize the Cuajone mine plan is in progress.  As part of the expansion plans, the project contemplates a variable cut-off grade methodology, which will increase copper and molybdenum production by a total of 147,000 tons and 3,000 tons, respectively, in the next 10 years.

 

Tailings disposal at Quebrada Honda: This project will increase the height of the existing Quebrada Honda dam to impound future tailings from the Toquepala and Cuajone mills and will extend the expected life of this tailings facility by 35 years.  The first stage of the tailings disposal project was completed.  Construction of the drainage system for the lateral dam started in June 2010.  The project has a total cost of $66 million with $47.0 million expended through December 31, 2010.

 

Ilo smelter modernization: In May 2010, the Ilo smelter marine trestle, with a total cost of $25.3 million, started operation.  We now offload directly to offshore ships the sulfuric acid produced at the Ilo smelter, avoiding hauling cargo through the city of Ilo.  The 500 meter long marine trestle is the last component of the Ilo smelter modernization project.

 

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Mexican operations:

 

Buenavista SXEW plant III: In the second half of 2010, we restarted the project and in December 2010 we completed a review of the basic engineering.  We have started the detailed engineering in January 2011 and, when completed, we will begin the acquisition of major equipment and construction of the plant and new infrastructure.  The total budget for this project is $216 million, of which we have spent $1.9 million through December 31, 2010.

 

Crushing, conveying and spreading system (“Quebalix III”): In 2010 the project has also been restarted.  We have almost completed the acquisition of the project equipment and will begin construction of the crusher building and the conveying and spreading systems for the leachable ore.  We expect a total investment of $70 million, of which we have spent $32.9 million through December 31, 2010.

 

Buenavista molybdenum plant: The basic engineering for the project is in process and we expect it to be completed during the first quarter of 2011.  Further, we will complete the metallurgical testing and start the detailed engineering and the procurement of the main equipment.

 

Pilares project: The Pilares mine site is located close to the La Caridad mine and is being evaluated.  As of December 31 2010, 13,700 meters of drilling has been performed, access roads developed and metallurgical testing and preliminary mine planning has begun.

 

Social programs for the Buenavista community are underway.  The local hospital has been reconstructed, two new water wells for the community have been completed, as well as a street paving program, and the town library was provided with modern technology to improve reference search capabilities.

 

Other capital expenditures

 

Tantahuatay: The construction of the Tantahuatay gold project, in which we have an 44.25% participation with Compania de Minas Buenaventura, has advanced and is expected to start dore gold production by June 2011.  The project is expected to have an average annual production of 90,000 ounces of gold and about 426,000 ounces of silver, for five years. It will require a total investment of $110 million.  During 2011, we will continue to assess the underlying copper deposit for possible future development.

 

El Arco: El Arco is a world class copper deposit in the central part of the Baja California peninsula, with estimated mineralized material of over 1.0 billion tons with an ore grade of 0.51% and 14 grams of gold per ton.  This project is expected to produce 190,000 tons of copper and 105,000 ounces of gold annually.  We continue to invest in land acquisition required for the project.  In 2010, the project feasibility study was completed at a cost of $15.0 million.

 

Potential projects

 

We have a number of projects that we may develop in the future.  We evaluate new projects on the basis of our long-term corporate objectives, expected return, environmental needs, required investment and estimated production, among other considerations.  All capital spending plans will continue to be reviewed and adjusted to respond to changes in the economy or market conditions.

 

The above information is based on estimates only.  We cannot make any assurance that we will undertake any of these projects or that the information noted is accurate.

 

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CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES

 

Our significant accounting policies are discussed in Note 3 “Summary of Significant Accounting Policies”, of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, included in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data” of this Annual Report.

 

Our discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations, as well as quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risks, are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP.  Preparation of these consolidated financial statements requires our management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  We make our best estimate of the ultimate outcome for these items based on historical trends and other information available when the financial statements are prepared.  Changes in estimates are recognized in accordance with the accounting rules for the estimate, which is typically in the period when new information becomes available to management.  Areas where the nature of the estimate makes it reasonably possible that actual results could materially differ from amounts estimated include: ore reserves, revenue recognition, estimated mine stripping ratios, leachable material and related amortization, the estimated useful lives of fixed assets, asset retirement obligations, litigation and contingencies, valuation allowances for deferred tax assets, tax positions, fair value of financial instruments, and inventory obsolescence.  We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

Ore Reserves:  For internal ore reserve estimation, we use metal price assumptions of $1.80 per pound for copper and $11.00 per pound for molybdenum.  These prices are intended to approximate average prices over the long term.  Our management uses these price assumptions, as it believes these prices reflect the full price cycle of the metals market.

 

However, pursuant to SEC guidance, the reserve information in this report is calculated using average metals prices over the most recent three years, except as otherwise stated.  We refer to these three-year average metals prices as “current average prices.”  Our current average prices for copper are calculated using prices quoted by COMEX, and our current average prices for molybdenum are calculated using prices published in Platt’s Metals Week.  Unless otherwise stated, reserves estimates in this report use $2.97 per pound for copper and $18.59 per pound for molybdenum, both current average prices as of December 31, 2010.  The prices for copper and molybdenum were $2.90 and $23.44, respectively, as of December 31, 2009 and $3.15 and $28.02, respectively, as of December 31, 2008.

 

Certain financial information is based on reserve estimates calculated on the basis of current average prices.  These include amortization of intangible assets and mine development.  However, variations in ore reserve calculations from changes in metal price assumptions do not create material changes to our financial results.

 

Leachable Material:  At one of our Mexican mines, we capitalize the cost of materials with low copper content extracted during the mining process (leachable material), which is collected in leach dumps.  The capitalized cost is recognized in earnings over the period we expect to recover copper from the leach dumps, which is estimated to be five years.

 

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Asset Retirement Obligation:  Our mining and exploration activities are subject to various laws and regulations governing the protection of the environment.  Accounting for reclamation and remediation obligations requires management to make estimates unique to each mining operation of the future costs we will incur to complete the reclamation and remediation work required to comply with existing laws and regulations.  These estimates are based in part on our inflation and credit rate assumptions.  Actual costs incurred in future periods could differ from amounts estimated.  Additionally, future changes to environmental laws and regulations could increase the extent of reclamation and remediation work required to be performed by us.  Any such increases in future costs could materially impact the amounts charged to operations for reclamation and remediation.

 

Asset retirement obligations are further discussed in Note 11 “Asset Retirement Obligation” to our consolidated financial statements included herein.

 

Revenue Recognition:  For certain of our sales of copper and molybdenum products, customer contracts allow for pricing based on a month subsequent to shipping, in most cases within the following three months and in few cases perhaps a few further months.  In such cases, revenue is recorded at a provisional price at the time of shipment.  The provisionally priced copper sales are adjusted to reflect forward LME or COMEX copper prices at the end of each month until a final adjustment is made to the price of the shipments upon settlement with customers pursuant to the terms of the contract.  In the case of molybdenum sales, for which there are no published forward prices, the provisionally priced sales are adjusted to reflect the market prices at the end of each month until a final adjustment is made to the price of the shipments upon settlement with customers pursuant to the terms of the contract. (See details in “Provisionally Priced Sales” under this Item 7).

 

Derivative Instruments: We utilize certain types of derivative financial instruments to enhance our ability to manage risks that exist as part of our ongoing business operations and to enhance our return on Company assets.  Derivative contracts are reflected as assets or liabilities in the balance sheet at their fair value.  The estimated fair value of the derivatives is based on market and/or dealer quotations and in certain cases valuation modeling.  From time to time we have entered into copper and zinc swap contracts to protect a fixed copper and zinc price for portions of our metal sales, hedging contracts to fix fuel prices for a portion of our production costs, interest rate swap agreements to hedge the interest rate risk exposure on certain of our bank obligations with variable interest rates and currency swap arrangements to ensure Mexican peso/ U.S. dollar conversion rates.  Realized and unrealized gains and losses related to economic hedges that do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognized in the consolidated statement of earnings as follows: copper and zinc derivatives are included in net sales, gain and losses related to fuel costs are included in cost of sales and all other are included in “Gain (loss) on derivative instruments.”  Changes in the fair value of copper derivatives that are designated as cash flow hedges are deferred in accumulated other comprehensive income and are recognized in sales as the hedged copper sales occur.

 

Income Taxes: In preparing our consolidated financial statements, we recognize income taxes in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate.  For each jurisdiction, we calculate the actual amount currently payable or receivable, as well as deferred tax assets and liabilities attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases.  Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which these temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled.  The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in rate is recognized through the income tax provision in the period that the change is enacted.

 

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A valuation allowance is provided for those deferred tax assets for which it is more likely than not that the related benefits will not be realized. In determining the amount of the valuation allowance, we consider estimated future taxable income, as well as feasible tax planning strategies in each jurisdiction. If we determine that we will not realize all or a portion of our deferred tax assets, we will increase our valuation allowance with a charge to income tax expense. Conversely, if we determine that we will ultimately be able to realize all or a portion of the related benefits for which a valuation allowance has been provided, all or a portion of the related valuation allowance will be reduced with a credit to income tax expense.

 

Our Company’s operations involve dealing with uncertainties and judgments in the application of complex tax regulations in multiple jurisdictions. The final taxes paid are dependent upon many factors, including negotiations with taxing authorities in various jurisdictions and resolution of disputes arising from federal, state, and international tax audits. We recognize potential liabilities and record tax liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues in the U.S. and other tax jurisdictions based on our estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due. We follow the guidance of ASC 740 “Income Tax” (FIN 48 “Uncertain tax positions” in prior literature) to record these liabilities. (See Note 9 “Income taxes” of the consolidated financial statements for additional information). We adjust these reserves in light of changing facts and circumstances; however, due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from our current estimate of the tax liabilities. If our estimate of tax liabilities proves to be less than the ultimate assessment, an additional charge to expense would result. If payment of these amounts ultimately proves to be less than the recorded amounts, the reversal of the liabilities would result in tax benefits being recognized in the period when we determine the liabilities are no longer necessary. We recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

 

Asset Impairments: We evaluate our long-term assets when events or changes in economic circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. Our evaluations are based on business plans that are prepared using a time horizon that is reflective of our expectations of metal prices over our business cycle. We are currently using a long-term average copper price of $1.80 per pound of copper and an average molybdenum price of $11.00 per pound, along with near-term price forecast, for 2010, reflective of the current price environment, for our impairment tests. The results of our impairment sensitivity analysis, which included a stress test using a copper price assumption of $1.50 per pound and a molybdenum price assumption of $10.00 per pound, showed projected undiscounted cash flows in excess of the carrying amounts of long-lived assets by margins ranging from 2.2 to 4.2 times such carrying amount.

 

In recent years our assumptions for long-term average prices resulted in stricter evaluations for impairment analysis than using the three year average prices for copper and molybdenum prices. Should this situation reverse in the future with three year average prices below the long-term price assumption, we would assess the need to use the three year average prices in our evaluations. We use an estimate of the future undiscounted net cash flows of the related asset or asset group over the remaining life to measure whether the assets are recoverable and measure any impairment by reference to fair value.

 

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PROVISIONALLY PRICED SALES

 

The following are the provisionally priced copper and molybdenum sales outstanding at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008:

 

Provisionally Priced Sales 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Copper

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Millions of pounds

 

13.8

 

23.4

 

141.0

 

Priced at average of (per pound)

 

$

4.38

 

$

3.33

 

$

1.39

 

Molybdenum

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Millions of pounds

 

9.1

 

10.9

 

6.3

 

Priced at average of (per pound)

 

$

16.40

 

$

11.75

 

$

9.50

 

 

Provisional sales adjustments included in accounts receivable and net sales at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

Provisional Sales Adjustments 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

$

4.8

 

$

4.1

 

$

(44.2

)

Molybdenum

 

7.3

 

(16.2

)

(53.1

)

Total

 

$

12.1

 

$

(12.1

)

$

(97.3

)

 

Management believes that the final pricing of these sales will not have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following table highlights key financial results for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010.

 

Statement of Earnings Data 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

5,149.5

 

$

3,734.3

 

$

4,850.8

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)

 

(2,099.4

)

(1,823.7

)

(2,182.2

)

Selling, general and administrative

 

(88.3

)

(78.3

)

(102.4

)

Depreciation, amortization and depletion

 

(323.3

)

(322.6

)

(327.3

)

Exploration

 

(34.3

)

(24.6

)

(37.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

2,604.2

 

1,485.1

 

2,201.9

 

Interest expense, net

 

(160.5

)

(97.6

)

(99.1

)

Interest income

 

7.8

 

6.6

 

48.4

 

Gain (loss) on derivative instruments

 

 

4.2

 

(74.6

)

Other income (expense)

 

(20.7

)

6.1

 

17.2

 

Income taxes

 

(868.1

)

(469.8

)

(679.3

)

Income attributable to non-controlling interest

 

(8.7

)

(5.2

)

(7.9

)

Income attributable to SCC

 

$

1,554.0

 

$

929.4

 

$

1,406.6

 

 

The table below outlines the average published market metals prices for our metals for each of the three years ended December 31, 2010:

 

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AVERAGE MARKET METALS PRICES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

% Change

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

2009 to 2010

 

2008 to 2009

 

Copper price ($ per pound - LME)

 

$

3.42

 

$

2.34

 

$

3.16

 

46.2

%

(25.9

)%

Copper price ($ per pound - COMEX)

 

$

3.43

 

$

2.35

 

$

3.13

 

46.0

%

(24.9

)%

Molybdenum price ($ per pound)(1)

 

$

15.60

 

$

10.91

 

$

28.42

 

43.0

%

(61.6

)%

Zinc price ($ per pound - LME)

 

$

0.98

 

$

0.75

 

$

0.85

 

30.7

%

(11.8

)%

Silver price ($ per ounce - COMEX)

 

$

20.18

 

$

14.67

 

$

14.97

 

37.6

%

(2.0

)%

 


(1) Platt’s Metals Week Dealer Oxide.

 

SEGMENT SALES INFORMATION

 

The following table presents the volume of sales by segment of copper and our significant by-products, for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2010:

 

Copper Sales (million pounds)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Peruvian operations

 

792.4

 

808.4

 

762.2

 

Mexican open-pit

 

311.7

 

289.0

 

321.9

 

Mexican IMMSA unit

 

23.0

 

34.6

 

35.4

 

Other and intersegment elimination

 

(21.0

)

(14.2

)

(5.0

)

Total copper sales

 

1,106.1

 

1,117.8

 

1,114.5

 

 

By-product Sales (million pounds, except
silver - million ounces)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peruvian operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Molybdenum contained in concentrate

 

22.3

 

19.6

 

20.4

 

Silver

 

4.5

 

4.3

 

3.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexican open-pit operations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Molybdenum contained in concentrate

 

22.9

 

21.4

 

16.0

 

Silver

 

7.1

 

6.5

 

4.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IMMSA unit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zinc-refined and in concentrate

 

215.1

 

228.0

 

220.7

 

Silver

 

7.0

 

12.3

 

8.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other and intersegment elimination

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Zinc

 

(7.9

)

0.9

 

0.5

 

Silver

 

(3.2

)

(4.9

)

(2.1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total by-product sales

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Molybdenum contained in concentrate

 

45.2

 

41.0

 

36.4

 

Zinc-refined and in concentrate

 

207.2

 

228.9

 

221.2

 

Silver

 

15.4

 

18.2

 

15.0

 

 

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Results of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2010 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2009.

 

Net sales

 

Net sales in 2010 were $5,149.5 million, compared with $3,734.3 million in 2009, an increase of $1,415.2 million. The increase was principally a result of higher average metal prices and higher molybdenum sales volume.

 

Molybdenum sales volume increased 10.5%, following a production record in 2010 due primarily to grade and recovery increases at the La Caridad and Toquepala mines.

 

The increase in metal prices was a result of improvements in the global economy and, in the case of copper, was helped by increased demand from China.

 

Net sales in 2010 include a loss of $41.9 million on copper hedges. There was no copper derivative activity in 2009.

 

The table below presents information regarding the volume of our copper sales products for the years 2010 and 2009.

 

Copper Sales by product (million pounds)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Refined

 

637.2

 

692.4

 

Blister

 

 

40.0

 

Anode

 

38.6

 

30.8

 

Concentrates and other

 

135.2

 

94.2

 

SXEW

 

167.4

 

126.0

 

Rod

 

127.7

 

134.4

 

Total

 

1,106.1

 

1,117.8

 

 

Mine copper production was 1,055.0 million pounds in 2010, a decrease of 1.4% from 2009. This decrease of 15.1 million pounds included a reduction of 43.2 million pounds at our Peruvian operation, principally from the Cuajone mine due to lower ore grades net of an increase of 28.0 million pounds at our Mexican open-pit mines. The increase was mainly due to 45.6 million pounds of SXEW cathodes from our Buenavista mine, which restored full leach capacity during the third quarter of 2010. This was partially offset by a decrease of 16.8 million pounds at La Caridad mine due to lower ore grades and recoveries.

 

Molybdenum production reached a record of 45.2 million pounds in 2010, a 9.8% increase from 2009. This increase was principally due to higher ore grades at the La Caridad and Toquepala mines.

 

Mine zinc production amounted to 218.7 million pounds in 2010, a 10.2% decrease from 2009. The decrease of 24.8 million pounds in zinc production is principally the result of lower production at the Santa Eulalia mine due to unusually heavy rains, which caused flooding in the area and hindered production. We are currently working on a rehabilitation program and expect to restore full mine production by October 2011.

 

Copper made up 72.7% of net sales in 2010 compared with 70.7% in 2009. Sales of by-products in 2010 totaled $1,403.7 million compared with $1,095.4 million in 2009, an increase of 28.1%. The increase is principally attributable to the increase in the sales prices for molybdenum, silver and zinc, as well as higher molybdenum sales volume.

 

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The table below provides the sales of our by-products as a percentage of our total net sales.

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31,

 

By-product Sales as a percentage of total net sales 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Molybdenum

 

13.3

%

11.7

%

Zinc

 

4.1

%

4.7

%

Silver

 

6.0

%

7.4

%

Other by-products

 

3.9

%

5.5

%

Total

 

27.3

%

29.3

%

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)

 

Our cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) in 2010 was $2,099.4 million, compared with $1,823.7 million in 2009, an increase of $275.7 million, or 15.1%. The increase in cost of sales was principally due to 1) higher production cost, including $48.5 million of higher fuel and power cost due to higher market prices, $22.9 million of higher labor cost, including a payment of approximately $10.2 million in signing bonuses to our Peruvian workers, and $21.3 million of higher costs for repairs at our Ilo smelter, 2) $109.6 million of higher workers’ participation as a result of increased earnings, 3) $16.4 million of higher mine royalties due to higher sales value and 4) $35.9 million for the restoration costs at our Buenavista facility.

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

Our selling, general and administrative expense in 2010 was $88.3 million, compared with $78.3 million in 2009, an increase of $10.0 million. The increase was mainly due to $3.5 million of higher labor cost, $2.4 million of a currency translation effect due to the revaluation of the Mexican peso. The 2009 administrative expenses include a credit adjustment of $3.5 million to the post retirement benefit plans at our Peruvian operations.

 

Exploration

 

We maintain active exploration programs in Peru, Mexico and Chile. Exploration expense in 2010 was $34.3 million and included $13.6 million in Peru (including Chile) and $20.7 million in Mexico, compared with $24.6 million in 2009, of which $14.6 million was in Peru and Chile and $10.0 million in Mexico.

 

Exploration expense in Peru decreased $1.0 million mainly at Los Chancas due to the completion of the pre-feasibility studies, partially offset by the exploration at other several minor prospects.

 

Exploration spending in Mexico was $10.7 million higher in 2010 principally due to 1) $7.4 million of higher drilling cost at our IMMSA mines which includes $2.8 million at the Charcas and Santa Eulalia mines and $4.6 million at the Santa Barbara mine, 2) $2.0 million at the La Caridad mine due to the restart of drilling programs, and 3) $1.1 million due to the acquisition of mining rights and additional field work.

 

Interest expense, net

 

Net interest expense in 2010 was $160.5 million compared with $97.6 million in 2009, an increase of $62.9 million. Interest expense increased in 2010 as a result of the issuance of $1.5 billion in fixed-rate unsecured notes at an average rate of 5.4%. Capitalized interest was $7.5 million and $2.2 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Interest income

 

Interest income in 2010 was $7.8 million, compared with $6.6 million in 2009, an increase of $1.2 million.  Our interest income increased as a result of higher average cash balances, principally because of improved earnings and additional borrowings.

 

Gain (loss) on derivative instruments

 

Gain on derivative instruments in 2009 was $4.2 million related to the U.S. dollar / Mexican peso exchange rate derivatives.  The Mexican peso appreciated 3.5% in 2009. We did not hold any exchange rate derivatives in 2010.  For a further discussion please see Note 17 “Derivative instruments” to our consolidated financial statements.  Gains or losses on copper and other metal derivatives are included in net sales and gains or losses on gas derivatives are included in the cost of sales on the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

Other income (expense)

 

Other income (expense) was an expense of $20.7 million in 2010 compared with income of $6.1 million in 2009.

 

The significant items in 2010 that increased the expense in “Other income (expense)” include: 1) an expense in Peru of $14.8 million for the regional development contribution, an increase of $5.6 million over the prior year, attributable to higher profits, 2) a decrease in Peru of $1.4 million related to gains on sale of miscellaneous property, 3) the 2009 period recorded a gain of $1.7 million related to a contract breakage fee received by our Peruvian operations; 2010 did not include any fees of this nature, 4) our Mexican operations included an increase in other miscellaneous charges of $3.8 million which include payments to local municipalities of $1.7 million related to the settlement of the Buenavista (Cananea) strike.  In addition donations are included in this category.

 

Income taxes

 

Income taxes in 2010 were $868.1 million and include $838.3 million of Peruvian and Mexican income taxes and $29.8 million for U.S. federal and state income taxes.  Income taxes in 2009 were $469.8 million and include $471.0 million of Peruvian and Mexican income taxes and a benefit of $1.2 million for U.S. federal and state income taxes.   U.S. income taxes are primarily attributable to investment income and limitations placed on the use of available tax credits (both foreign tax credits and the minimum tax credit).

 

The increase of $398.3 million or 84.8% was primarily due to $1,026.4 million of higher pretax income.  The effective tax rate for 2010 was 35.7%, compared with 33.5% in 2009.  The increase in the effective tax rate is principally due to an increase in unrecognized tax benefit (UTB)caused by a prior year change in the percentage depletion in the UTB and a decrease to the percentage depletion allowance presently forecasted for 2010 when compared with 2009.

 

Net Income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest in 2010 was $8.7 million compared with $5.2 million in 2009, an increase of $3.5 million or 67.3%.  This increase is the result of higher earnings at our Peruvian operations.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Net income attributable to SCC

 

Our net income attributable to SCC in 2010 was $1,554.0 million, compared with $929.4 million in 2009, an increase of $624.6 million.  Net income attributable to SCC increased largely as a result of higher metal prices and the factors described above.

 

Segment Operating Income Information — 2010 vs.2009:

 

Peruvian Open-pit Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Value

 

%

 

Net sales

 

$

3,125.9

 

$

2,223.5

 

$

902.4

 

40.6

%

Operating costs and expenses

 

(1,406.1

)

(1,206.2

)

(199.9

)

(16.6

)%

Operating income

 

$

1,719.8

 

$

1,017.3

 

$

702.5

 

69.1

%

 

Net sales at our Peruvian operations in 2010 were $3,125.9 million compared with $2,223.5 million in 2009, an increase of $902.4 million.  This increase was primarily due to the increase in metal prices and an increase in molybdenum and silver sales volume.  The LME copper price was 46.2% higher in 2010 (the majority of the copper sales of our Peruvian operations are priced on the LME) and the molybdenum and silver prices were 43% and 37.6% higher, respectively.

 

Molybdenum and silver sales volume increased by 2.7 million pounds and 0.2 million ounces, respectively.  The increase in molybdenum sales volume was mainly due to higher production at our Toquepala mine due to higher grades and recoveries.  The increase in silver sales volume was due to higher production at the Toquepala mine.

 

Net sales in 2010 also include a loss on copper hedge derivatives of $27.7 million while in 2009 we held no copper derivatives positions.

 

Operating costs and expenses at our Peruvian operations in 2010 were $1,406.1 million, compared with $1,206.2 million in 2009, an increase of $199.9 million principally due to higher cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion).  Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) was $1,218.2 million in 2010, compared with $1,026.7 million in 2009.  The increase of $191.5 million was primarily the result of 1) $80.6 million of higher production cost principally due to $18.3 million of higher cost of fuel and power due to an increase in market prices, $20.7 million of higher labor cost, including a payment of approximately $10.2 million in signing bonuses to our Peruvian workers, and $41.6 million of operating and repair cost mainly due to repairs at our Ilo smelter plant, 2) $21.9 million of higher royalty charge and 3) $74.7 million of higher workers’ participation.  The increases in royalty charge and the workers’ participation are both due to higher earnings.

 

Operating income in 2010 was $1,719.8 million, compared with $1,017.3 million in 2009, an increase of $702.5 million.  Operating income increased as a result of the factors described above.

 

Mexican Open-pit Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Value

 

%

 

Net sales

 

$

1,648.5

 

$

1,076.7

 

$

571.8

 

53.1

%

Operating costs and expenses

 

(910.3

)

(745.7

)

(164.6

)

(22.1

)%

Operating income

 

$

738.2

 

$

331.0

 

$

407.2

 

123.0

%

 

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Table of Contents

 

Net sales at our Mexican open-pit operations in 2010 were $1,648.5 million, compared with $1,076.7 million in 2009, an increase of $571.8 million.  This increase is a result of higher metal prices and higher copper, molybdenum and silver sales volume.  The increase in sales volumes was due to the recovery of the SXEW production at our Buenavista mine and to higher ore grades and recoveries at La Caridad mine.

 

Net sales in 2010 included a loss on copper hedge derivatives of $14.3 million.  There was no copper derivative activity in 2009.

 

Operating costs and expenses at our Mexican open-pit operations in 2010 were $910.3 million compared with $745.7 million in 2009, an increase of $164.6 million.  The increase was the result of higher cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) in 2010 of $164.5 million.  Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) was $710.1 million in 2010, compared with $545.6 million in 2009.  The increase was primarily due to $104.2 million of higher metal purchased from third parties to cover the production loss from the Buenavista mine and the concentrate purchased from our IMMSA unit after the closing of the San Luis Potosi copper smelter in March 2010 and $29.6 million of higher workers’ participation due to the increase in earnings.  The concentrates previously smelted at San Luis Potosi are now purchased and processed at La Caridad.

 

Operating income in 2010 was $738.2 million compared with $331.0 million in 2009, an increase of $407.2 million or 123.0%.  Operating income increased as a result of the factors described above.

 

IMMSA unit

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Value

 

%

 

Net sales

 

$

512.7

 

$

560.2

 

$

(47.5

)

(8.5

)%

Operating costs and expenses

 

(359.0

)

(423.3

)

64.3

 

15.2

%

Operating income

 

$

153.7

 

$

136.9

 

$

16.8

 

12.3

%

 

Net sales at our IMMSA unit in 2010 were $512.7 million, compared with $560.2 million in 2009, a decrease of $47.5 million.  The decrease in 2010 was due to lower volume of copper, silver and zinc and sales by the Santa Eulalia mine primarily as a result of the decrease in production because of the unusually heavy rains, which caused flooding in the area and hindered production.  We are working to rectify this problem and expect to restore production to normal levels by October 2011.

 

Operating costs and expenses at our IMMSA unit were $359.0 million in 2010 compared with $423.3 million in 2009, a decrease of $64.3 million.  This decrease was primarily the result of $71.3 million of lower cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion).  The decrease in cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) included $129.1 million of lower metal purchases from third parties, net of $38.0 million of higher inventory consumption.

 

Operating income in 2010 was $153.7 million compared with $136.9 million in 2009, an increase of $16.8 million.  Operating income increased primarily as a result of the factors described above.

 

Intersegment Eliminations and Adjustments

 

The net sales, operating costs and expenses and operating income discussed above will not be directly equal to amounts in our consolidated statement of earnings because the adjustments of intersegment operating revenues and expenses must be taken into account.  Please see Note 21 “Segment and related information” of our consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Results of Operations for the Year Ended December 31, 2009 Compared with Year Ended December 31, 2008.

 

Net sales

 

Net sales in 2009 were $3,734.3 million compared with $4,850.8 million in 2008, a decrease of $1,116.5 million.  The decrease was principally a result of lower average metal prices, partially offset by increases in sales volume.

 

Copper sales volume increased slightly in 2009.  However, molybdenum, and silver sales volume increased 12.6% and 21.1%, respectively, as a result of higher grades and recovery at our Cuajone and La Caridad mines.  In addition, zinc sales volume increased 3.5% due to higher grades and recoveries.

 

The decline in metal prices, which began late in 2008 and continued into 2009 began to recover in the second quarter of 2009 and continued through the balance of the year. Copper prices averaged over $3.00 per pound in the fourth quarter and closed 2009 at $3.33 per pound.  The average molybdenum and zinc prices in 2009 were 61.6% and 11.8% lower than 2008, respectively.

 

Net sales in 2008 also include a $137.0 million gain on copper derivatives.  There was no copper derivative activity in 2009.

 

The table below presents information regarding the volume of our copper sales products for the years 2009 and 2008.

 

Copper Sales by product (million pounds)

 

2009

 

2008

 

Refined

 

692.4

 

657.4

 

Blister

 

40.0

 

21.9

 

Anode

 

30.8

 

22.0

 

Concentrates and other

 

94.2

 

101.4

 

SXEW

 

126.0

 

142.2

 

Rod

 

134.4

 

169.6

 

Total

 

1,117.8

 

1,114.5

 

 

Mine copper production was 1,070.1 million pounds in 2009, a decrease of 0.7% from 2008.  This decrease of 7.8 million pounds included a reduction of 19.4 million pounds at our Mexican open-pit segment mainly due to the strike at our Buenavista mine, which was partially offset by an increase of 11.1 million pounds at our Peruvian mines due to higher ore grades and recoveries at the Toquepala mine.

 

Molybdenum production was 41.2 million pounds in 2009, a 14.0% increase from 2008.  This increase was principally due to higher ore grades at the La Caridad and Cuajone mines.

 

Mine zinc production amounted to 243.5 million pounds in 2009, a 3.3% increase from 2008.  The increase of 7.7 million pounds in zinc production is mainly due to higher ore grades at the Santa Barbara mine, and higher recoveries at the Santa Eulalia and Charcas mines.

 

Copper made up 70.7% of net sales in 2009 compared with 69.2% in 2008.  Sales of by-products in 2009 totaled $1,095.4 million compared with $1,495.9 million in 2008, a decrease of 26.8%.  The decrease is principally attributable to the decrease in the sales prices for molybdenum and zinc.  The table below provides the sales of our by-products as a percentage of our total net sales.

 

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Years Ended December 31,

 

By-product Sales as a percentage of total net sales 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Molybdenum

 

11.7

%

16.5

%

Zinc

 

4.7

%

4.0

%

Silver

 

7.4

%

4.3

%

Other by-products

 

5.5

%

6.0

%

Total

 

29.3

%

30.8

%

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)

 

Our cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) in 2009 was $1,823.7 million compared with $2,182.2 million in 2008, a decrease of $358.5 million, or 16.4%.  The decrease in cost of sales was principally due to 1) $269.8 million of lower production cost, including, $200.8 million of lower fuel and power cost due to lower market prices, $28.8 million of lower operating and repair material cost and $28.4 million of lower contractor services at our Mexican operations, both mainly due to lower repairs at La Caridad mine, 2) $77.5 million of lower workers’ participation as a result of lower earnings and 3) $4.8 million of lower mine royalties due to lower sales value.

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

Our selling, general and administrative expense in 2009 was $78.3 million compared with $102.4 million in 2008, a decrease of $24.1 million.  The decrease was mainly due to $8.5 million of lower legal and consulting services in 2009, from amounts spent in 2008 for improvements in information systems technology and tax and internal controls, $7.2 million of lower cost resulting from the devaluation of the Mexican peso, $1.5 million of lower taxes on financial transactions at our Peruvian operations and $1.5 million of lower technical assistance and software licenses payments.

 

Exploration

 

We maintain active exploration programs in Peru, Mexico and Chile.  Exploration expense in 2009 was $24.6 million and included $14.6 million in Peru (including Chile) and $10.0 million in Mexico, compared with $37.0 million in 2008, of which $20.4 million was in Peru (including Chile) and $16.6 million in Mexico.

 

Exploration expense in Peru decreased $5.8 million mainly as a result of the Tia Maria project entering the development stage in the second half of 2008. In 2008, exploration spending in Tia Maria was $4.6 million.  Please see “Capital Investment Program”, under this Item 7.  Also, in 2009 exploration expenses decreased $1.1 million in Chile due to lower drilling and reduced field work.

 

Exploration spending in Mexico was $6.6 million lower in 2009 and includes a decrease of $3.5 million at the IMMSA mines of Charcas and Santa Eulalia and a decrease of $3.1 million at the La Caridad mine.  These decreases were the result of less drilling and field work in 2009.

 

Interest expense, net

 

Net interest expense in 2009 was $97.6 million compared with $99.1 million in 2008, a decrease of $1.5 million.  Interest expense decreased in 2009 as a result of a decrease in our average debt outstanding, mainly due to the payment of $150 million of the series A of our Yankee bonds in April 2008 and the amortization and decrease in interest rate of the Mitsui loan.  Capitalized interest was $2.2 million and $6.8 million in 2009 and 2008, respectively.

 

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Interest income

 

Interest income in 2009 was $6.6 million compared with $48.4 million in 2008, a decrease of $41.8 million.  Our interest income decreased largely as a result of lower average cash balances principally due to lower metal prices and lower interest rate largerly as a result of the international economic crisis.

 

Gain (loss) on derivative instruments

 

Gain on derivative instruments in 2009 was $4.2 million compared with a loss of $74.6 million in 2008.  The losses on derivative instruments in 2009 and 2008 are all related to the U.S. dollar / Mexican peso exchange rate derivatives.  The Mexican peso had appreciated 3.5% in 2009 compared to a devaluation of 24.5% in 2008.  For a further discussion please see Note 17 “Derivative instruments” to our consolidated financial statements.  Gains or losses on copper and other metal derivatives are included in net sales and gains or losses on gas derivatives are included in the cost of sales on the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

Other income (expense)

 

Other income (expense) was income of $6.1 million in 2009 compared with an income of $17.2 million in 2008.  The decrease of $11.1 million includes $27.1 million of lower income at our Mexican operations and $16.0 million of higher income at our Peruvian operations.  The decrease in income at our Mexican operation was mainly due to $17.8 million of lower gain on the sale of inactive properties and $5.5 lower miscellaneous sales.  The increase in income at our Peruvian operation was largely due to a gain in the mark to market valuation of short-term investments in 2009 of $3.4 million compared with a loss of $10.3 million in 2008.

 

Income taxes

 

Income taxes in 2009 were $469.8 million and include $471.0 million of Peruvian and Mexican income taxes and a benefit of $1.2 million for U.S. federal and state income taxes.  Income taxes in 2008 were $679.3 million and include $724.3 million of Peruvian and Mexican income taxes and $45.0 million for U.S. federal and state income taxes.   U.S. income taxes are primarily attributable to investment income and limitations placed on the use of available tax credits (both foreign tax credits and the minimum tax credit).

 

The decrease of $209.5 million or 30.8% was primarily due to $689.3 million of lower pretax income.  The effective tax rate for 2009 was 33.5%, compared with 32.5% in 2008.  The increase in the effective tax rate is largely due to dividends received by SCC from tax jurisdictions with lower tax rate (Mexico 28%). The dividend income is taxed in the U.S. at a rate of 35%.

 

The rate increase caused by this differential of 28% versus 35% was partially offset by benefits recognized when we settled prior year audits.  Please see Note 9 “Income taxes” for further discussion of the settlement.

 

Net Income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest in 2009 was $5.2 million compared with $7.9 million in 2008, a decrease of $2.7 million or 34%.  This decrease is the result of lower earnings at our Peruvian operations.

 

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Net income attributable to SCC

 

Our net income attributable to SCC in 2009 was $929.4 million compared with $1,406.6 million in 2008, a decrease of $477.2 million or 33.9%.  Net income attributable to SCC decreased as a result of the factors described above.

 

Segment Operating Income Information — 2009 vs.2008:

 

Peruvian Open-pit Operations

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change

 

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Value

 

%

 

Net sales

 

$

2,223.5

 

$

2,803.2

 

$

(579.7

)

(20.7

)

Operating costs and expenses

 

(1,206.2

)

(1,273.0

)

66.8

 

5.2

 

Operating income

 

$

1,017.3

 

$

1,530.2

 

$

(512.9

)

(33.5

)

 

Net sales at our Peruvian operations in 2009 were $2,223.5 million compared with $2,803.2 million in 2008, a decrease of $579.7 million.  This decrease was primarily due to the decline in metal prices partially offset by an increase in copper and silver sales volume.  The LME copper price was 25.9% lower in 2009 (the majority of the copper sales of our Peruvian operations are priced on the LME) and the molybdenum price was 61.6% lower.

 

Copper and silver sales volume increased by 46.2 million pounds and 0.6 million ounces, respectively.  The increase in copper sales volume was mainly due to higher production at our Toquepala mine due to higher grades and recoveries.  The increase in silver sales volume was due to higher production at both mines due to higher ore grades.

 

Net sales in 2008 also include a gain on copper derivatives of $91.8 million while in 2009 we held no copper derivatives positions.

 

Operating costs and expenses at our Peruvian operations in 2009 were $1,206.2 million compared with $1,273.0 million in 2008, a decrease of $66.8 million principally due to lower cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion).  Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) was $1,026.7 million in 2009 compared with $1,100.4 million in 2008.  The decrease of $73.7 million was primarily the result of $121.8 million of lower cost of fuel and power due to a decrease in market prices and $64.6 million of lower workers’ participation due to lower earnings.  These decreases were partially offset by $99.0 million of higher copper concentrates purchased from third parties to cover smelter production requirements.

 

Operating income in 2009 was $1,017.3 million compared with $1,530.2 million in 2008, a decrease of $512.9 million.  The operating income increased as a result of the factors described above.

 

Mexican Open-pit Operations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change

 

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Value

 

%

 

Net sales

 

$

1,076.7

 

$

1,583.6

 

$

(506.9

)

(32.0

)

Operating costs and expenses

 

(745.7

)

(949.5

)

203.8

 

21.5

 

Operating income

 

$

331.0

 

$

634.1

 

$

(303.1

)

(47.8

)

 

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Net sales at our Mexican open-pit operations in 2009 were $1,076.7 million compared with $1,583.6 million in 2008, a decrease of $506.9 million.  This decrease is a result of lower metal prices, and lower copper sales volume, mainly refined and rod, due to the loss of production at Buenavista as a result of the ongoing strike.  In 2008 we produced and sold 34 million pounds of copper at Buenavista versus nothing in 2009.  This decrease was partially offset by an increase in silver and molybdenum production and sales volume due to higher ore grades and recoveries at La Caridad mine.

 

Net sales in 2008 included a gain on copper derivatives of $45.2 million while there was no copper derivative activity in 2009.

 

Operating cost and expenses at our Mexican open-pit operations in 2009 was $745.7 million compared with $949.5 million in 2008, a decrease of $203.8 million.  The decrease was the result of lower cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) in 2009 of $182.6 million.  Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) was $545.6 million in 2009, compared with $728.2 million in 2008.  The decrease was primarily the effect of the strike at the Buenavista mine and included, 1) $100.1 million of lower production cost, 2) $22.3 million of lower workers’ participation, 3) $54.3 million of lower inventory consumption, and 4) $14.0 million of severance payments in 2008.

 

Operating income in 2009 was $331.0 million, compared with $634.1 million in 2008, a decrease of $303.1 million or 47.8%.  The operating income decreased as a result of the factors described above.

 

IMMSA unit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change

 

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Value

 

%

 

Net sales

 

$

560.2

 

$

525.1

 

$

35.1

 

6.7

 

Operating costs and expenses

 

(423.3

)

(513.3

)

90.0

 

17.5

 

Operating income

 

$

136.9

 

$

11.8

 

$

125.1

 

1,060.2

 

 

Net sales at our IMMSA unit in 2009 were $560.2 million compared with $525.1 million in 2008, an increase of $35.1 million.  The increase in 2009 was primarily due to higher silver and zinc production and sales volume at the Santa Barbara mine as a result of higher ore grades and higher recoveries at the Santa Eulalia, Charcas and Santa Barbara mines, partially offset by lower metal prices.

 

Operating costs and expenses at our IMMSA unit were $423.3 million in 2009, compared with $513.3 million in 2008, a decrease of $90.0 million.  This decrease was primarily the result of $69.3 million of lower cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion).  The decrease in cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion) included: $54.9 million of lower production cost mainly due to lower market prices for fuel and power cost and $21.4 million of lower inventory consumption.

 

Operating income in 2009 was $136.9 million, compared with $11.8 million in 2008, an increase of $125.1 million.  The operating income decreased primarily as a result of the factors described above.

 

Intersegment Eliminations and Adjustments

 

The net sales, operating costs and expenses and operating income discussed above will not be directly equal to amounts in our consolidated statement of earnings because the adjustments of intersegment operating revenues and expenses must be taken into

 

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account.  Please see Note 21 “Segment and related information” of our consolidated financial statements.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

The following discussion relates to our liquidity and capital resources for each of the years in the three year period ended December 31, 2010.

 

Liquidity

 

The following table shows the cash flow for the three year period ended December 31, 2010 (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Net cash provided from operating activities

 

$

1,920.7

 

$

963.2

 

$

1,728.3

 

Net cash used for investing activities

 

$

(473.8

)

$

(359.3

)

$

(418.6

)

Net cash provided (used) for financing activities

 

$

36.6

 

$

(458.0

)

$

(2,048.0

)

 

Net cash provided from operating activities:

 

2010-2009

 

The increase of $957.5 million in the 2010 cash provided from operating activities from 2009 was due to an increase of $628.1 million in net income and a decrease in working capital needs of $348.8 million.  The increase in net income was primarily due to higher metal prices.

 

In 2010, net income was $1,562.7 million, approximately 81.4% of the net operating cash flow.  Significant items added to or (deducted from) to arrive at operating cash flow included depreciation, amortization and depletion of $323.2 million and $13.5 million of net currency translation effect, which were added back to net income in determining operating cash flow, and $40.4 million of a deferred income tax benefit, which was deducted from net income in determining operating cash flow.

 

In addition, in 2010 a decrease in working capital increased operating cash flow by $62.6 million.  The 2010 and 2009 increase (decrease) in cash from working capital includes (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Variance

 

Accounts receivable

 

$

(308.1

)

$

(299.6

)

$

(8.5

)

Inventories

 

(48.8

)

(4.5

)

(44.3

)

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

540.9

 

(89.1

)

630.0

 

Other operating assets and liabilities

 

(121.4

)

107.1

 

(228.5

)

Total

 

$

62.6

 

$

(286.1

)

$

348.7

 

 

The increase in accounts receivable value was principally due to higher metal prices at the end of 2010 compared with 2009.  The LME and COMEX copper prices increased by over 46.0% in 2010 compared with 2009, and molybdenum, zinc and silver increased by 43.0%, 30.7% and 37.6%, respectively.  The increase in inventories of $48.8 million includes an increase of $12.4 million in finished goods inventory, principally due to shipping delays at our Mexican operations and $40.7 million of higher work-in process inventory principally due to scheduled repairs at our smelter facilities.  The increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities was mainly due to an increase in workers’ participation and income tax provision due to the higher earnings.  Other operating assets and liabilities in 2010 were a use of cash of $121.4 million, which

 

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was caused principally by an increase of $51.6 million in the long term income tax provision.

 

In 2009 net income was $934.6 million, approximately 97.0% of the net operating cash flow.  Significant items added to or (deducted from) to arrive at operating cash flow included, depreciation, amortization and depletion of $322.6 million and $41.2 million of deferred income tax, which were added back to net income in determining operating cash flow, and ($56.8) million of the realized 2008 loss on derivative instruments, which were deducted from net income in determining operating cash flow.

 

In addition, in 2009 an increase in working capital decreased operating cash flow by $286.1 million.

 

2009-2008

 

The decrease of $765.2 million in the 2009 cash provided from operating activities from 2008 was due to the reduction of $479.9 million in net income and an increase in working capital needs of $355.8 million.  The reduction in net income was primarily due to lower metal prices.

 

In 2009 net income was $934.6 million, approximately 97.0% of the net operating cash flow.  Significant items (deducted from), or added to arrive to operating cash flow included, depreciation, amortization and depletion of $322.6 million and $41.2 million of deferred income tax, which were added back to net income in determining operating cash flow, and ($56.8) million of the realized 2008 loss on derivative instruments, which were deducted from net income in determining operating cash flow.

 

In addition, in 2009 an increase in working capital decreased operating cash flow by $286.1 million.  The 2009 and 2008 increase (decrease) in cash from working capital includes (in millions):

 

 

 

2009

 

2008

 

Variance

 

Accounts receivable

 

$

(299.6

)

$

330.1

 

$

(629.7

)

Inventories

 

(4.5

)

(3.3

)

(1.2

)

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

(89.1

)

(164.3

)

75.2

 

Other operating assets and liabilities

 

107.1

 

(92.9

)

200.0

 

Total

 

$

(286.1

)

$

69.6

 

$

(355.7

)

 

The increase in accounts receivable value was principally due to higher metal prices at the end of 2009 compared with 2008.  The LME and COMEX copper prices increased by over 70% in the fourth quarter 2009 compared with the fourth quarter 2008, and zinc and silver increased by 85.2% and 73.0%, respectively.  The increase in inventories of $4.5 million includes an increase of $23.8 million in metal inventory mainly due to higher metal purchases from third parties at our Mexican operations to reduce the production loss caused by the ongoing strikes net of a decrease of $19.2 million in supplies inventory.  The decrease in accounts payable and accrued liabilities was mainly due to a decrease in accounts payable trade as a result of the lower prices of supplies and the strikes at our Mexican operations.  Other operating assets and liabilities in 2009 were a source of cash of $107.1 million, which was caused principally by a decrease of $44.1 million in the long term income tax provision.

 

Net cash used for investing activities:

 

2010: Net cash used for investing activities in 2010 included $408.7 million for capital expenditures, $66.9 million for the purchase of bonds classified as trading securities, and $21.5 million for our share of the investment in the development of the Tantahuatay gold project, less $14.7 million of proceeds from the sale of short-

 

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term investments and $8.7 million of proceeds from the sale of inactive properties of our Mexican operations.  The capital expenditures included $260.3 million of investments at our Peruvian operations, $152.5 million for the Tia Maria project, $32.8 million for the Toquepala concentrator expansion, $18.8 million for the Cuajone concentrator expansion and $56.2 million for various other replacement expenditures.  In addition, we spent $140.9 million for replacement assets at our Mexican operations, $109.8 million of which was at our Mexican open-pit operations, $29.8 million at our IMMSA unit and $8.8 million for other corporate projects, including at our administrative office in Mexico City.

 

2009: Net cash used for investing activities in 2009 included $414.8 million for capital expenditures, $43.8 million of proceeds from the redemption of short-term investments and $11.8 million of proceeds from the sale of inactive properties at our Mexican operations.  The capital expenditures included $284.4 million of investments at our Peruvian operations, $162.0 million for the Tia Maria project, $52.6 million for the Toquepala concentrator expansion, and $69.8 million for various other replacement expenditures.  In addition, we spent $130.4 million for replacement assets at our Mexican operations, $79.4 million of which was at our Mexican open-pit operations, $27.8 million at our IMMSA unit and $23.2 million at our administrative office in Mexico City.

 

2008: Net cash used for investing activities included $524.4 million of capital expenditures, $45.2 million received from the redemption of short-term investments and $60.6 million of proceeds from the sale of inactive properties at our Mexican operations.  The $524.4 million of capital expenditures includes the following expenditures at our Peruvian operations, $118.0 million for the Tia Maria project, $37.7 million for the Toquepala expansion project, $18.2 million for the Cuajone expansion project, $21.7 million for the tailing disposal project, $17.3 million for electrical shovels and $89.5 million for equipment replacement and upgrades.  Capital expenditures also include equipment replacement and upgrade of $145.0 million at our Mexican open-pit operations, $44.2 million at our IMMSA unit and $32.8 million for our administrative office in Mexico.

 

Net cash used for financing activities:

 

2010: Net cash provided from financing activities was $36.6 million and includes $1,480.8 million from the issuance of fixed-rate unsecured notes, net of debt issuance cost of $8.8 million, less a dividend distribution of $1,428.0 million, a debt repayment of $10.0 million and distributions to our non-controlling interest investors of $6.5 million.

 

2009: Net cash used for financing activities amounted to $458.0 million and included a shareholder dividend distribution of $376.0 million, a distribution to our non-controlling interest investors of $1.1 million, $71.9 million for the repurchase of 4.9 million shares of our common stock and $10.0 million for debt payment.

 

2008: Net cash used for financing activities amounted to $2,048.0 million, and included a shareholder dividend distribution of $1,710.8 million, a distribution to our non-controlling interest investors of $10.2 million, $384.7 million for the repurchase of 28.5 million shares of our common stock and $160.0 million of debt repayment.  In addition, we received $216.4 million from the sale of 350 million shares of our parent company’s common stock. See Note 16 “Stockholder Equity.”

 

Other Liquidity Considerations

 

In 2008, our Board of Directors authorized an up to $500 million share repurchase program.  Since the inception of the program we have purchased 33.4 million shares of

 

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our common stock at a cost of $457 million.  These shares will be available for general corporate purposes.  Substantially all of the purchases were made in 2008 and 2009.  While we do not anticipate significant additional purchases, the repurchase program has no expiration date and may be modified or discontinued at any time.  For further details please see Item 5 - SCC common stock repurchase plan.

 

On January 27, 2011, our Board of Directors authorized a dividend of 58 cents per share to be paid on March 1, 2011 to shareholders of record as of February 15, 2011.  Our dividend policy continues to be reviewed at Board of Directors’ meetings, taking into consideration the current capital investment program and expected future cash flow generated from operations.

 

We expect that we will meet our cash requirements for 2011 and beyond from cash on hand and internally generated funds.  In addition, we believe that we will be able to access additional external financing on reasonable terms, if required.

 

In December 2006, our Peruvian Branch signed a contract with the Peruvian government committing our Company to make annual contributions for five years to support the regional development of Peru. The contributions are being used for social benefit programs. During these four years we made non-deductible contributions as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

Payment

 

2006

 

$

16.1

 

 

 

2007

 

18.9

 

 

 

2008

 

12.7

 

 

 

2009

 

9.2

 

 

 

 

This contract expired in 2010 with the last payment to be deposited in April 2011. At December 31, 2010 we made a provision of $14.8 million.

 

It is our understanding that the Peruvian government is studying alternatives to replace this contribution and is considering, among other things, an increase in mining royalties or a tax on “windfall” profits.  We believe that a decision on these options will be deferred until after the new Peruvian government takes office in late July 2011.  The Peruvian presidential election is scheduled to be held in April 2011.

 

In 2004, the Peruvian Congress enacted legislation imposing a royalty charge to be paid by mining companies.  Under this law, we are subject to a 1% to 3% charge based on sales, calculated on the value of the concentrates produced.  We made a provision of $65.5 million, $43.7 million and $53.9 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, for this charge.

 

Retained earnings of $1.8 billion generated by our Mexican subsidiary have been designated as permanently reinvested.  Accordingly, we will not receive distributions of such amounts for the foreseeable future.  We will incur in additional taxes equal to the difference between U.S. and Mexican tax rates that would result in the event that we receive distributions from our Mexican subsidiary.

 

FINANCING

 

Our total debt at December 31, 2010 was $2,760.4 million compared with $1,280.3 million at December 31, 2009, net of the unamortized discount of notes issued under par of $26.0 million and $16.1 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  The increase in total debt during 2010 was due to the issuance of $1.5 billion in fixed-rate unsecured notes described below.

 

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The ratio of debt to total capitalization was 41.4% at December 31, 2010 compared to 24.7% at December 31, 2009.  Also the ratio of net debt to net capitalization was 12.7% at December 31, 2010 compared with 11.5% at December 31, 2009.

 

We define net debt as total debt, including current maturities, minus cash and cash equivalents.  We believe that net debt is useful to investors as a measure of our financial position.  We define net capitalization as the sum of net debt and equity.  We use the net debt to net capitalization ratio as measure of our indebtedness position and to determine how much debt can we take in addition to the use of the equity and the balance sheet in general.  We define total capitalization as the sum of the carrying values of our total debt, including current maturities and equity.  A reconciliation of our net debt to net capitalization and total debt to total capitalization as included in the consolidated balance sheet is presented under the sub heading “Non-GAAP Information Reconciliation,” below.

 

On April 16, 2010, we issued $1.5 billion in fixed-rate unsecured notes with a discount of $10.3 million, which is being amortized over the term of the related debt.  Net proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes, including the financing of the Company’s capital expenditure program.

 

Please see Note 12 “Financing” for a discussion about the covenants requirements related to our long-term debt.

 

Capital Investment Programs

 

A discussion of our capital investment programs is an important part of understanding our liquidity and capital resources.  We expect to meet the cash requirements for these capital expenditures from cash on hand, internally generated funds and from additional external financing if required.  For information regarding our capital expenditure programs, please see the discussion under the caption “Capital Investment Program” under this Item 7.

 

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

 

The following table summarizes our significant contractual obligations as of December 31, 2010:

 

 

 

 

 

Payments due by Period

 

 

 

Total

 

2011

 

2012

 

2013

 

2014

 

2015

 

2016 and
Thereafter

 

 

 

 

 

(dollars in millions)

 

Long-term debt

 

$

2,786.4

 

$

10.0

 

$

10.0

 

$

10.0

 

$

 

$

200.0

 

$

2,556.4

 

Interest on debt

 

4,389.4

 

189.3

 

189.0

 

188.8

 

188.7

 

183.3

 

3,450.3

 

Uncertain tax position(a)

 

77.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Workers’ participation

 

222.4

 

222.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contribution to the Peruvian regional development

 

14.8

 

14.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pension and post-retirement obligations

 

73.2

 

12.4

 

5.3

 

5.4

 

5.7

 

5.9

 

38.5

 

Asset retirement obligation

 

59.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

59.1

 

Purchase obligations:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitment to purchase energy

 

1,161.3

 

167.5

 

167.6

 

192.5

 

192.5

 

192.5

 

248.7

 

Capital expenditure projects

 

246.1

 

186.8

 

58.3

 

1.0

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

9,030.5

 

$

803.2

 

$

430.2

 

$

397.7

 

$

386.9

 

$

581.7

 

$

6,353.0

 

 


(a)          The above table does not include any future payment related to uncertain tax position liabilities because there is often a high degree of uncertainty regarding the timing of future cash outflows.  As of December 31, 2010 the liability recognized by the Company is $77.8 million and is included as non-current liability in the consolidated balance sheet.

 

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Long-term debt payments do not include the debt discount valuation account of $26 million.

 

Interest on debt is calculated at rates in effect at December 31, 2010.  As almost all our debt is at fixed rates, future expenditures will not change significantly due to rate changes.  Please refer to Note 12 “Financing” of our consolidated financial statements for a description of our long-term debt arrangements and credit facilities.

 

Workers’ participation is currently calculated based on Peruvian Branch and Mexican pre-tax earnings.  In Peru, the provision for workers’ participation is calculated at 8% of pre-tax earnings.  The current portion of this participation, which is accrued during the year, is based on the Peruvian Branch’s taxable income and is largely distributed to workers following determination of final results for the year.  Amounts in excess of 18 times a worker’s salary is distributed to governmental bodies.  In Mexico, workers’ participation is determined using the guidelines established in the Mexican income tax law at a rate of 10% of pre-tax earnings as adjusted by the tax law.

 

Pursuant to our agreement with the Peruvian Government signed on December 28, 2006 we had committed to make annual contributions for five years for the regional development of Peru based on Peruvian Branch’s earnings after income tax.  The contribution expired in 2010 and the last deposit should be made in April 2011.  For an additional discussion on this matter please see “Regional development contribution” in Note 15 “Commitments and contingencies” of the consolidated financial statements.

 

Pension and post retirement obligations include the benefits expected to be paid under our pension and post-retirement benefit plans.  Please refer to Note 13 “Benefit plans” of our consolidated financial statements.

 

Asset retirement obligations include the aggregate amount of the closure and remediation costs of our Peruvian mines and facilities to be paid under the mine closure plans approved by MINEM. See Note 11 “Asset retirement obligation.”

 

We have a commitment to purchase power for our Peruvian operations from Enersur through April 2017.  In 2009 we signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Enersur regarding the power supply agreement.  As a result of the MOU, formulas for calculating the monthly power cost have changed, decreasing power cost vis a vis the former methodology.  The new formula has been applied since May 2009 to date and will be used until the end of the contract in 2017.  Amounts indicated on the above table are based on our long-term estimated power costs as amended by the MOU, which are subject to change as energy generation costs change and our forecasted power requirements through the life of the agreements change.

 

Capital expenditure projects include committed purchase orders and executed contracts principally for our Peruvian projects of Tia Maria and the Toquepala concentrator expansion.

 

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NON-GAAP INFORMATION RECONCILIATION

 

Operating cash cost:

 

Following is a reconciliation of “Operating Cash Cost” (see page 83) to GAAP cost of sales in millions of dollars and dollars per pound in the table below:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

$ million

 

$ per
pound

 

$ million

 

$ per
pound

 

$ million

 

$ per
pound

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)—GAAP

 

$

2,099.4

 

$

2.019

 

$

1,823.7

 

$

1.743

 

$

2,182.2

 

$

1.976

 

Add:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

88.3

 

0.085

 

78.3

 

0.075

 

102.4

 

0.093

 

Treatment and refining charges

 

54.6

 

0.053

 

42.3

 

0.040

 

40.8

 

0.037

 

By-product revenue (1)

 

(1,384.1

)

(1.331

)

(1,017.3

)

(0.972

)

(1,476.1

)

(1.336

)

Net revenue on sale of metal purchased from third parties

 

(10.4

)

(0.010

)

(29.6

)

(0.028

)

(18.2

)

(0.016

)

Less:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Workers’ participation

 

(244.3

)

(0.235

)

(134.7

)

(0.129

)

(212.1

)

(0.192

)

Cost of metals purchased from third parties

 

(280.6

)

(0.270

)

(266.6

)

(0.255

)

(232.8

)

(0.211

)

Royalty charge and other, net

 

(201.0

)

(0.194

)

(145.5

)

(0.139

)

(121.6

)

(0.111

)

Inventory change

 

53.2

 

0.051

 

23.8

 

0.023

 

(23.9

)

(0.022

)

Operating Cash Cost

 

175.1

 

0.168

 

$

374.4

 

$

0.358

 

$

240.7

 

$

0.218

 

Less by-product revenue and net revenue on sale of metal purchased from third parties

 

1,394.5

 

1.341

 

1,046.9

 

1.001

 

1,494.3

 

1.353

 

Operating Cash Cost, without by-product revenue and net revenue on sale of metal purchased from third parties

 

$

1,569.6

 

$

1.509

 

$

1,421.9

 

$

1.359

 

$

1,735.0

 

$

1.571

 

Total pounds of copper produced (in millions)

 

1,039.8

 

 

 

1,046.1

 

 

 

1,104.6

 

 

 

 


(1)                  Includes net by-product sales revenue and premiums on sales of refined products.

 

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Net debt to net capitalization:

 

Net debt to net capitalization as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 is as follows:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Total debt

 

$

2,760.4

 

$

1,280.3

 

Cash and cash equivalent balance

 

(2,192.7

)

(772.3

)

Net debt

 

567.7

 

508.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net capitalization:

 

 

 

 

 

Net debt

 

567.7

 

508.0

 

Equity

 

3,910.4

 

3,893.7

 

Net capitalization

 

$

4,478.1

 

$

4,401.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net debt/net capitalization (*)

 

12.7

%

11.5

%

 


(*) Represents net debt divided by net capitalization.

 

Debt to total capitalization:

 

Debt to total capitalization as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 is as follows:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Total debt

 

$

2,760.4

 

$

1,280.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capitalization

 

 

 

 

 

Debt

 

2,760.4

 

1,280.3

 

Equity

 

3,910.4

 

3,893.7

 

Total capitalization

 

$

6,670.8

 

$

5,174.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt/total capitalization (*)

 

41.4

%

24.7

%

 


(*) Represents debt divided by total capitalization.

 

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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Metal price risk:

 

We are subject to market risks arising from the volatility of copper and other metal prices.  Assuming that expected metal production and sales are achieved, that tax rates are unchanged, and giving no effects to potential hedging programs, metal price sensitivity factors would indicate estimated changes in net earnings resulting from metal price changes in 2010 as provided in the table below:

 

 

 

Copper

 

Molybdenum

 

Zinc

 

Silver

 

Change in metal prices (per pound except silver — per ounce)

 

$

0.01

 

$

1.00

 

$

0.01

 

$

1.00

 

Change in net earnings (in millions)

 

$

7.6

 

$

21.1

 

$

1.1

 

$

7.7

 

 

Foreign currency exchange risk:

 

We are also exposed to market risk associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates as certain costs incurred are in currencies other than our functional currency, the U.S. dollar. To manage the volatility related to the risk, we may enter into forward exchange contracts, currency swaps or other currency hedging arrangements. Portions of our operating costs are denominated in Peruvian nuevos soles and Mexican pesos. Since our revenues are primarily denominated in U.S. dollars, when inflation/deflation in Peru or Mexico is not offset by a change in the exchange rate of the nuevo sol or the peso, respectively, to the dollar, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected to the extent that the inflation/devaluation effects are passed onto us by our suppliers or reflected in our wage adjustments. In addition, the dollar value of our net monetary assets denominated in nuevos soles or pesos can be affected by devaluation of the nuevo sol or the peso, resulting in a remeasurement loss in our financial statements. Recent inflation and devaluation rates are provided in the table below.

 

 

 

Years Ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Peru

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Peruvian inflation rate

 

2.1

%

0.2

%

6.6

%

Nuevo sol/dollar devaluation/(appreciation) rate

 

(2.8

)%

(8.0

)%

4.8

%

Mexico

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexican inflation rate

 

4.4

%

3.6

%

6.5

%

Peso/dollar devaluation/(appreciation) rate

 

(5.4

)%

(3.5

)%

24.5

%

 

Change in monetary position:

 

Assuming an exchange rate change of 10% at December 31, 2010, we estimate our net monetary position in Peruvian nuevo sol and Mexican pesos would increase (decrease) our operating income as follows:

 

 

 

Effect in net
earnings
($ in
millions)

 

Appreciation of 10% in exchange rate of U.S. dollar vs. nuevo sol

 

$

32.1

 

Devaluation of 10% in exchange rate of U.S. dollar vs. nuevo sol

 

$

(39.2

)

Appreciation of 10% in exchange rate of U.S. dollar vs. Mexican peso

 

$

40.1

 

Devaluation of 10% in exchange rate of U.S. dollar vs. Mexican peso

 

$

(32.8

)

 

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The net monetary position is net of those assets and liabilities that are nuevo sol or peso denominated at December 31, 2010.

 

Interest rate risk:

 

A portion of our outstanding debt bears interest at variable rates and accordingly is sensitive to changes in interest rates.  Interest rate changes would also result in gains or losses in the market value of our fixed rate debt portfolio due to differences in market interest rates and the rates at the inception of the debt agreements.  Based upon our indebtedness at December 31, 2010, a change in interest rates of one percent (or 100 basis points) would have an average annual impact on net income and cash flows of $0.5 million.  Most of our debt is at fixed rates.

 

Derivative instruments:

 

As part of our risk management policy, we occasionally use derivative instruments to (i) safeguard corporate assets, (ii) insure the value of its future revenue stream and (iii) lessen the impact of unforeseen market swings on its sales revenues.  To meet with these objectives we, from time to time, enter into commodities prices derivatives, interest rate derivative, exchange rate derivative and other instruments.  We do not enter into derivative contracts unless we anticipate a future activity that is likely to occur that will result in exposure to market risk.

 

Copper swaps:

 

In 2010 and 2008, we entered into copper swaps and zero cost collar derivative contracts to reduce price volatility and to protect our sales value as shown below.  In 2010, these transactions meet the requirements of hedge accounting but not in 2008.  The realized gains and losses from these derivatives were recorded in net sales on the consolidated statement of earnings and included in operating activities on the consolidated statement of cash flows.  We did not hold any copper derivatives in 2009.

 

The following table summarized the copper derivative activity related to copper sales transactions realized in 2010 and 2008:

 

 

 

2010

 

2008

 

Zero cost collar contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

Pounds (in millions)

 

 

220.5

 

Average LME cap price

 

 

$

4.23

 

Average LME floor price

 

 

$

3.40

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swap contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

Pounds (in millions)

 

276.7

 

175.1

 

Weighted average COMEX price

 

$

3.79

 

$

3.87

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Realized (loss) gain on copper derivatives

 

$

(41.9

)

$

137.0

 

 

In addition, we have a hedge program to protect the sales value of a portion of our copper production for years 2011 and 2012.  The hedge instruments are based on LME copper prices.  We performed statistical analysis on the difference between the average monthly copper price on the LME and the COMEX exchanges and determined that the correlation coefficient is greater than 0.999.  Based on this analysis we consider that the LME underlying price matches our sales priced at COMEX prices.  These cash

 

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flow hedge relationships qualify as critical matched terms hedge relationships and as a result have no ineffectiveness.  We perform periodic quantitative assessments to confirm that the relationship was highly effective and that the ineffectiveness was the de minimus.

 

At the end of 2010 we held copper derivative contracts to protect a portion of our copper sales for 2011 and the first quarter 2012, as follows:

 

 

 

2011

 

1st Quarter 2012

 

Zero cost collar contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

Pounds (in millions)

 

423.3

 

16.5

 

Average LME cap price

 

$

4.84

 

$

4.81

 

Average LME floor price

 

$

3.02

 

$

3.50

 

Estimated % of copper sales covered

 

30

%

5

%

Unrealized loss recognized in other comprehensive income (net of income taxes of $25.7 million and $0.6 million, respectively) (in millions)

 

$

45.2

 

$

1.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swap contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

Pounds (in millions)

 

291.0

 

 

Weighted average COMEX price

 

$

3.88

 

 

Estimated % of copper sales covered

 

21

%

 

 

Unrealized loss recognized in other comprehensive income net of income taxes of $45.1 million (in millions)

 

$

79.3

 

 

 

Additionally, in January and early February 2011, we entered into copper swaps contracts to protect 165.9 million pounds of copper for 2011 at an average price of $4.42 per pound and into zero cost collar contracts to protect 29.8 million pounds of copper for the first quarter of 2012 at an average floor price of $3.50 per pound of copper and an average cap price of $5.38 per pound of copper.  With the addition of these contracts we increased the percentage of our 2011 and first quarter 2012 copper sales coverage to 61% and 13%, respectively.

 

Transactions under these metal price protection programs are accounted for as cash flow hedges under ASC 815-15 “Derivatives and Hedging-embedded derivatives” (formerly SFAS No. 133 “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”) as they meet the requirements for this treatment and are adjusted to fair market value based on the metal prices as of the last day of the respective reporting period with the gain or loss recorded in other comprehensive income until settlement, at which time the gain or loss is reclassified to net sales in the consolidated statements of earnings.

 

We expect to reclassify into earnings during the next 12 months the unrealized loss included in accumulated other comprehensive loss of approximately $124.5 million (net of income tax) at the time the underlying hedged transactions are realized.  However, changes in copper prices in the next 12 months could increase or decrease the amount of the loss to be reclassified into earnings.

 

Please see additional disclosure about fair value on Note 18-”Financial instruments”.

 

Gas swaps:

 

In the last three years we entered into gas swap contracts to protect part of our gas consumption as follows:

 

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2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gas volume (MMBTUs)

 

 

 

306,000

 

460,000

 

Fixed price

 

 

 

$

3.6350

 

$

8.2175

 

Loss (in millions)

 

 

 

$

 

$

(0.9

)

 

The losses obtained were included in the production cost.  At December 31, 2010 we did not hold any gas contract positions.

 

Exchange rate derivatives, U.S. dollar / Mexican peso contracts:

 

Because more than 85% of our sales collections in Mexico are in US dollars and many of our costs are in Mexican pesos, we entered into zero-cost derivative contracts with the purpose of protecting, within a range, against an appreciation of the Mexican peso to the US dollar.

 

Related to the exchange rate derivative contracts we recorded gains and (losses) as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gain (loss)

 

 

$

4.2

 

$

(74.6

)

 

These gains and losses were recorded as gain (loss) on derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of earnings.  During 2010 and at December 31, 2009 we did not hold any exchange rate derivative contracts.

 

Short-term investments:

 

Short-term investments were as follows ($ in millions):

 

 

 

At December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Trading securities

 

$

66.9

 

$

 

Weighted average interest rate

 

1.14

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Available for sale

 

$

9.3

 

$

22.9

 

Weighted average interest rate

 

1.01

%

0.63

%

Total

 

$

76.2

 

$

22.9

 

 

Trading securities consist of bonds issued by public companies. Each financial instrument is independent of the others and, as of December 31, 2010, included principally $50.0 million of Petroleos Mexicanos bonds acquired at 99.4% and with original maturity on December 3, 2012, and other bonds.  We have the intention to sell these bonds in the short-term.

 

Available for sale investments consist of securities issued by public companies.  Each security is independent of the others and, as of December 31, 2010, included corporate bonds and asset and mortgage backed obligations.  As of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, gross unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities were not material.

 

Related to these investments we earned interest, which was recorded as interest income in the consolidated statement of earnings.  Also, we redeemed some of these securities and recognized gains (losses) due to changes in fair value, which were recorded as other income (expense) in the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

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The following table summarizes the activity of these investments by category (in millions):

 

 

 

Years ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Trading:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest earned

 

$

2.6

 

 

Available for sale:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest earned

 

$

0.2

 

$

0.4

 

Investment redeemed

 

$

14.8

 

$

43.8

 

 

At December 31, 2010 and 2009 contractual maturities of our available for sale debt securities are as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

One year or less

 

$

0.4

 

$

9.0

 

Maturing after one year through five years

 

0.1

 

4.1

 

Maturing after five years through ten years

 

0.8

 

0.1

 

Due after 10 years

 

8.0

 

9.7

 

Total debt securities

 

$

9.3

 

$

22.9

 

 

IMPACT OF NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS

 

None

 

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Table of Contents

 

ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

 

Southern Copper Corporation

and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF EARNINGS

 

For the years ended December 31,
(in thousands, except for per share amounts) 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Net sales

 

$

5,149,500

 

$

3,734,280

 

$

4,850,820

 

Operating cost and expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion shown separately below)

 

2,099,438

 

1,823,673

 

2,182,206

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

88,305

 

78,291

 

102,432

 

Depreciation, amortization and depletion

 

323,240

 

322,590

 

327,302

 

Exploration

 

34,313

 

24,578

 

36,990

 

Total operating costs and expenses

 

2,545,296

 

2,249,132

 

2,648,930

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

2,604,204

 

1,485,148

 

2,201,890

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest expense

 

(167,949

)

(99,793

)

(105,928

)

Capitalized interest

 

7,462

 

2,156

 

6,776

 

Gain (loss) on derivative instruments

 

 

4,236

 

(74,628

)

Other income (expense)

 

(20,737

)

6,077

 

17,272

 

Interest income

 

7,800

 

6,610

 

48,400

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

2,430,780

 

1,404,434

 

2,093,782

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

 

868,071

 

469,861

 

679,323

 

Net income

 

1,562,709

 

934,573

 

1,414,459

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less: Net income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

8,658

 

5,192

 

7,866

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income attributable to SCC

 

$

1,554,051

 

$

929,381

 

$

1,406,593

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Per common share amounts attributable to SCC:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net earnings — basic and diluted

 

$

1.83

 

$

1.09

 

$

1.60

 

Dividends paid

 

$

1.68

 

$

0.44

 

$

1.94

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted average shares outstanding — basic and diluted

 

850,000

 

850,697

 

878,713

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Southern Copper Corporation

and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

(in thousands)

 

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

1,562,709

 

$

934,573

 

$

1,414,459

 

Other comprehensive income (loss) net of tax:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease in pension and other post-retirement benefits

 

12,179

 

10,420

 

3,050

 

Unrealized loss on hedge derivative instruments

 

(125,562

)

 

 

 

 

Unrealized gain on equity securities

 

 

 

27

 

Total comprehensive income

 

1,449,326

 

944,993

 

1,417,536

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comprehensive income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

8,637

 

5,196

 

7,866

 

Comprehensive income attributable to SCC

 

$

1,440,689

 

$

939,797

 

$

1,409,670

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Southern Copper Corporation

and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

 

At December 31, (in thousands)

 

2010

 

2009

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

2,192,677

 

$

772,306

 

Short-term investments

 

76,209

 

22,948

 

Accounts receivable trade (less allowance for doubtful accounts (2010 - $nil and 2009 - $4,614)

 

671,745

 

407,979

 

Accounts receivable other (including affiliates 2010 - $32,700 and 2009 - $4,491)

 

76,284

 

27,609

 

Inventories

 

504,937

 

456,122

 

Deferred income tax — current portion

 

63,935

 

19,672

 

Other current assets

 

117,170

 

67,131

 

Total current assets

 

3,702,957

 

1,773,767

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, net

 

4,094,993

 

3,969,558

 

Leachable material, net

 

65,719

 

107,262

 

Intangible assets, net

 

112,352

 

113,840

 

Deferred income tax

 

43,900

 

52,670

 

Other assets

 

108,098

 

41,113

 

Total assets

 

$

8,128,019

 

$

6,058,210

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

$

10,000

 

$

10,000

 

Accounts payable

 

558,661

 

283,344

 

Accrued income taxes

 

266,241

 

91,359

 

Due to affiliated companies

 

4,665

 

359

 

Accrued workers’ participation

 

222,432

 

146,330

 

Accrued interest

 

60,062

 

39,795

 

Other accrued liabilities

 

16,957

 

26,876

 

Total current liabilities

 

1,139,018

 

598,063

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

2,750,401

 

1,270,252

 

Deferred income taxes

 

113,232

 

143,508

 

Non-current taxes payable

 

77,830

 

26,201

 

Other liabilities and reserves

 

78,070

 

77,607

 

Asset retirement obligation

 

59,059

 

48,925

 

Total non-current liabilities

 

3,078,592

 

1,566,493

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 15)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock par value $0.01; shares authorized: 2010 and 2009 2,000,000,000 shares issued: 2010 and 2009 — 884,596,086

 

8,846

 

8,846

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

1,034,764

 

1,013,326

 

Retained earnings

 

3,595,983

 

3,469,930

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(126,423

)

(13,061

)

Treasury stock, at cost, common shares

 

(622,722

)

(603,413

)

Total stockholders’ equity

 

3,890,448

 

3,875,628

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-controlling interest

 

19,961

 

18,026

 

Total equity

 

3,910,409

 

3,893,654

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities and equity

 

$

8,128,019

 

$

6,058,210

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Southern Copper Corporation

and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

 

For the years ended December 31,
(in thousands)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

1,562,709

 

$

934,573

 

$

1,414,459

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation, amortization and depletion

 

323,240

 

322,590

 

327,302

 

Capitalized leachable material

 

 

 

(2,246

)

Loss (gain) on currency translation effect

 

13,585

 

18,307

 

(18,063

)

Provision (benefit) for deferred income taxes

 

(40,426

)

41,231

 

(100,115

)

(Gain)loss on sale of property

 

 

(6,173

)

(29,778

)

Loss on short-term investments

 

(1,020

)

(4,353

)

10,339

 

Unrealized loss (gain) on derivative investments

 

 

(56,815

)

56,815

 

Cash provided from (used for) operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

(308,079

)

(299,631

)

330,163

 

Inventories

 

(48,815

)

(4,525

)

(3,314

)

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

 

540,955

 

(89,139

)

(164,284

)

Other operating assets and liabilities

 

(121,438

)

107,113

 

(92,938

)

Net cash provided from operating activities

 

1,920,711

 

963,178

 

1,728,340

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

(408,734

)

(414,822

)

(524,400

)

Purchase of short-term investments

 

(66,914

)

 

 

Proceeds on sale of short-term investments

 

14,673

 

43,781

 

45,188

 

Payments to development stage properties accounted for as equity method investments

 

(21,467

)

 

 

Sale of property

 

8,671

 

11,755

 

60,613

 

Net cash used for investing activities

 

(473,771

)

(359,286

)

(418,599

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Debt repaid

 

(10,000

)

(10,000

)

(160,025

)

Debt incurred

 

1,489,674

 

 

 

SCC common shares buyback

 

(463

)

(71,903

)

(384,656

)

Capitalization of debt issuance cost

 

(8,831

)

 

 

Proceeds from sale of parent company shares

 

192

 

 

216,438

 

Dividends paid to common stockholders

 

(1,427,998

)

(375,969

)

(1,710,813

)

Distributions to non-controlling interest

 

(6,495

)

(1,149

)

(10,211

)

Other

 

531

 

998

 

1,231

 

Net cash provided from (used for) financing activities

 

36,610

 

(458,023

)

(2,048,036

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

(63,179

)

(90,303

)

45,763

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

1,420,371

 

55,566

 

(692,532

)

Cash and cash equivalents, at beginning of year

 

772,306

 

716,740

 

1,409,272

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents, at end of year

 

$

2,192,677

 

$

772,306

 

$

716,740

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during the year for:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest

 

$

142,210

 

$

95,492

 

$

116,709

 

Income taxes

 

$

600,371

 

$

339,421

 

$

922,019

 

Workers’ participation

 

$

155,440

 

$

183,697

 

$

305,216

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental schedule of non-cash operating, investing and financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Decrease in pension and other post-retirement benefits

 

$

12,173

 

$

10,416

 

$

3,050

 

Unrealized loss on cash flow hedge derivative instruments recognized in other comprehensive income (net of taxes)

 

$

(125,535

)

$

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non cash transactions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock split:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase in common stock

 

$

 

$

 

$

5,897

 

Decrease in additional paid-in capital

 

$

 

$

 

$

5,897

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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Southern Copper Corporation

and Subsidiaries

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

 

For years ended December 31,
(in thousands)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL EQUITY, beginning of year

 

$

3,893,654

 

$

3,395,399

 

$

3,864,805

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY, beginning of year

 

3,875,628

 

3,381,259

 

3,848,120

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CAPITAL STOCK:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at beginning and end of year:

 

8,846

 

8,846

 

8,846

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ADDITIONAL PAID-IN CAPITAL:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at beginning of year

 

1,013,326

 

993,826

 

819,646

 

Gain on sale of parent company shares

 

 

 

144,091

 

Net movement of the period

 

21,438

 

19,500

 

30,089

 

Balance at end of year

 

1,034,764

 

1,013,326

 

993,826

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TREASURY STOCK:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Southern Copper common shares

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at beginning of the year

 

(460,712)

 

(388,968

)

(4,360

)

Share repurchase program

 

(463)

 

(71,904

)

(384,656

)

Used for corporate purposes

 

208

 

160

 

48

 

Balance at end of period

 

(460,967)

 

(460,712

)

(388,968

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Parent Company common shares

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at beginning of year

 

(142,701)

 

(125,485

)

(170,315

)

Sale of shares

 

 

 

72,339

 

Other activity, including dividend, interest and currency translation effect

 

(19,054)

 

(17,216

)

(27,509

)

Balance at end of year

 

(161,755)

 

(142,701

)

(125,485

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Treasury stock balance at end of year

 

(622,722)

 

(603,413

)

(514,453

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RETAINED EARNINGS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at beginning of year

 

3,469,930

 

2,916,517

 

3,220,857

 

Net earnings

 

1,554,052

 

929,381

 

1,406,473

 

Dividends paid, common stock, per share, 2010 — $1.68, 2009 - $0.44, 2008 — $1.94

 

(1,427,999)

 

(375,968

)

(1,710,813

)

Balance at end of year

 

3,595,983

 

3,469,930

 

2,916,517

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance at beginning of year

 

(13,061)

 

(23,477

)

(26,554

)

Decrease in pension and other post-retirement benefits

 

12,173

 

10,416

 

3,050

 

Unrealized loss on hedge derivative instruments

 

(125,535)

 

 

 

 

 

Unrealized gain on equity securities

 

 

 

27

 

Balance at end of year

 

(126,423)

 

(13,061

)

(23,477

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY, end of year

 

3,890,448

 

3,875,628

 

3,381,259

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST, beginning of year

 

18,026

 

14,140

 

16,685

 

Net earnings

 

8,658

 

5,192

 

7,866

 

Dividends paid

 

(6,747)

 

(1,459

)

(10,411

)

Other activity

 

24

 

153

 

 

NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST, end of year

 

19,961

 

18,026

 

14,140

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL EQUITY, end of year

 

$

3,910,409

 

$

3,893,654

 

$

3,395,399

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RETAINED EARNINGS:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unappropriated

 

$

1,819,772

 

$

1,693,675

 

$

540,981

 

Appropriated

 

1,776,211

 

1,776,255

 

2,375,536

 

Total retained earnings

 

$

3,595,983

 

$

3,469,930

 

$

2,916,517

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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SOUTHERN COPPER CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

NOTE 1-DESCRIPTION OF THE BUSINESS:

 

The consolidated financial statements presented herein consist of the accounts of Southern Copper Corporation (“SCC” or the “Company”) and its subsidiaries.  The Company is an integrated producer of copper and other minerals, and operates mining, smelting and refining facilities in Peru and Mexico.  The Company conducts its primary operations in Peru through a registered branch (the “Peruvian Branch” or “Branch” or “SPCC Peru Branch”).  The Peruvian Branch is not a corporation separate from the Company.  The Company’s Mexican operations are conducted through subsidiaries.

 

NOTE 2 — AMC’s BUSINESS COMBINATION PROPOSAL:

 

On July 22, 2010, the Company received a non-binding proposal from its parent company, AMC, offering to effect an all-stock business combination of Southern Copper and AMC, the parent company of Asarco, in which all stockholders of Southern Copper would receive 1.237 common shares of AMC in exchange for each share of SCC.  Under the proposal presented by AMC the stock of AMC would be registered and listed on the New York, Mexico and the Lima Stock Exchanges.  Once the listing and registration of the AMC shares are completed, SCC’s shares would be delisted from the exchanges.

 

In August 2010, the Company formed a special committee of independent directors to evaluate AMC’s proposal.  The special committee has engaged independent legal, financial and technical advisors to assist in the evaluation.  There is no specific deadline to complete this evaluation.

 

NOTE 3-SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

 

Principles of consolidation—

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of subsidiaries of which the Company has voting control, in accordance with Accounting Standards Codification 810 Consolidation “ASC-810” (in prior literature SFAS No. 94 “Consolidation of All Majority-Owned Subsidiaries”).  Such financial statements are prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“U.S. GAAP”).

 

The consolidated statement of earnings, changes in equity and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2008, have been retrospectively adjusted to conform with the new presentation requirements related to the non-controlling interest set forth in ASC-810 (in prior literature SFAS No. 160 “Non-controlling interest”).

 

Use of estimates—

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Significant items subject to such estimates and assumptions include the carrying value of ore reserves that are the basis for future cash flow estimates and amortization calculations; environmental, reclamation, closure and retirement obligations; estimates of recoverable copper in mill and leach stockpiles; asset impairments (including estimates of future cash flows); bad debts;

 

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inventory obsolescence; deferred and current income tax; valuation allowances for deferred tax assets; reserves for contingencies and litigation; and fair value of financial instruments.  Management bases its estimates on the Company’s historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

Revenue recognition—

 

Substantially all of the Company’s copper is sold under annual or other longer-term contracts.

 

Revenue is recognized when title passes to the customer.  The passing of title is based on terms of the contract, generally upon shipment.  Copper revenue is determined based on the monthly average of prevailing commodity prices according to the terms of the contracts.  The Company provides allowances for doubtful accounts based upon historical bad debt and claims experience and periodic evaluation of specific customer accounts.

 

For certain of the Company’s sales of copper and molybdenum products, customer contracts allow for pricing based on a month subsequent to shipping, in most cases within the following three months and in a couple of cases a few additional months.  In such cases, revenue is recorded at a provisional price at the time of shipment.  The provisionally priced copper sales are adjusted to reflect forward LME or COMEX copper prices at the end of each month until a final adjustment is made to the price of the shipments upon settlement with customers pursuant to the terms of the contract.  In the case of molybdenum sales, for which there are no published forward prices, the provisionally priced sales are adjusted to reflect the market prices at the end of each month until a final adjustment is made to the price of the shipments upon settlement with customers pursuant to the terms of the contract.

 

These provisional pricing arrangements are accounted for separately from the contract as an embedded derivative instrument under ASC 815-15 “Derivatives and Hedging — embedded derivatives” (in prior literature SFAS No. 133 “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”).  The Company sells copper in concentrate, anode, blister and refined form at industry standard commercial terms.  Net sales include the invoiced value and corresponding fair value adjustment of the related forward contract of copper, zinc, silver, molybdenum, acid and other metals.

 

Shipping and handling fees and costs—

 

Amounts billed to customers for shipping and handling are classified as sales.  Amounts incurred for shipping and handling are included in cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion).

 

Cash and cash equivalents—

 

Cash and cash equivalents include bank deposits, certificates of deposit and short-term investment funds with original maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase.  The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value.

 

Short-term investments—

 

The Company accounts for short-term investments in accordance with ASC 320-10 “Investments Debt and Equity Securities — Recognition” (in prior literature SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”).  The Company determines the appropriate classification of all short-term investments as held-to-maturity, available-for-sale or trading at the time of purchase and re-evaluates such

 

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classifications as of each balance sheet date.  Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale investments, net of taxes, are reported as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in stockholders’ equity, unless such loss is deemed to be other than temporary.

 

Inventories—

 

Metal inventories, consisting of work—in-process and finished goods, are carried at the lower of average cost or market.  Costs incurred in the production of metal inventories exclude general and administrative costs.

 

Work-in-process inventories represent materials that are in the process of being converted into a saleable product.  Conversion processes vary depending on the nature of the copper ore and the specific mining operation.  For sulfide ores, processing includes milling and concentrating and results in the production of copper and molybdenum concentrates.

 

Finished goods include saleable products (e.g., copper concentrates, copper anodes, copper cathodes, copper rod, molybdenum concentrate and other metallurgical products).

 

Supplies inventories are carried at average cost less a reserve for obsolescence.

 

Property—

 

Property is recorded at acquisition cost, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization.  Cost includes major expenditures for improvements and replacements, which extend useful lives or increase capacity and interest costs associated with significant capital additions.  Maintenance, repairs, normal development costs at existing mines, and gains or losses on assets retired or sold are reflected in earnings as incurred.

 

Buildings and equipment are depreciated on the straight-line method over estimated lives from five to 40 years or the estimated life of the mine if shorter.

 

Mine development —

 

Mine development includes primarily the cost of acquiring land rights to an exploitable ore body, pre-production stripping costs at new mines that are commercially exploitable, costs associated with bringing new mineral properties into production, and removal of overburden to prepare unique and identifiable areas outside the current mining area for such future production.  Mine development costs are amortized on a unit of production basis over the remaining life of the mines.

 

There is a diversity of practices in the mining industry in the treatment of drilling and other related costs to delineate new ore reserves.  The Company follows the practices outlined in the next two paragraphs in its treatment of drilling and related costs.

 

Drilling and other associated costs incurred in the Company’s efforts to delineate new resources, whether near-mine or Greenfield are expensed as incurred.  These costs are classified as mineral exploration costs.  Once the Company determines through feasibility studies that proven and probable reserves exist and that the drilling and other associated costs embody a probable future benefit that involves a capacity, singly or in combination with other assets, to contribute directly or indirectly to future net cash inflow, then the costs are classified as mine development costs.  These mine development costs incurred prospectively to develop the property are capitalized as incurred, until the commencement of production, and are amortized using

 

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the units of production method over estimated life of the ore body.  During the production stage, drilling and other related costs incurred to maintain production are included in production cost in the period in which they are incurred.

 

Drilling and other related costs incurred in the Company’s efforts to delineate a major expansion of reserves at an existing production property are expensed as incurred.  Once the Company determines through feasibility studies that proven and probable incremental reserves exist and that the drilling and other associated costs embody a probable future benefit that involves a capacity, singly or in combination with other assets, to contribute directly or indirectly to future net cash inflow, then the costs are classified as mine development costs.  These incremental mine development costs are capitalized as incurred, until the commencement of production and amortized using the units of production method over the estimated life of the ore body.  A major expansion of reserves is one that increases total reserves at a property by approximately 10%.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the Company did not capitalize any drilling and related costs.  The net balance of capitalized mine development costs at December 31, 2010 and 2009, were $42.1 million and $43.7 million, respectively.

 

Asset retirement obligations (reclamation and remediation costs)—

 

The fair value of a liability for asset retirement obligations is recognized in the period in which the liability is incurred.  The liability is measured at fair value and is adjusted to its present value in subsequent periods as accretion expense is recorded.  The corresponding asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying value of the related long-lived assets and depreciated over the asset’s useful life.

 

Intangible assets—

 

Intangible assets include primarily the excess amount paid over the book value for investment shares and mining and engineering development studies.  Intangible assets are carried at acquisition costs, net of accumulated amortization and are amortized principally on a unit of production basis over the estimated remaining life of the mines.  Intangible assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the asset may not be recoverable.

 

Debt issuance costs—

 

Debt issuance costs, which are included in other assets, are amortized using the interest method over the term of the related debt.

 

Ore reserves—

 

The Company periodically reevaluates estimates of its ore reserves, which represent the Company’s estimate as to the amount of unmined copper remaining in its existing mine locations that can be produced and sold at a profit.  Such estimates are based on engineering evaluations derived from samples of drill holes and other openings, combined with assumptions about copper market prices and production costs at each of the respective mines.

 

The Company updates its estimate of ore reserves at the beginning of each year. In this calculation the Company uses current metal prices which are defined as the average metal price over the preceding three years.  The current price per pound of copper, as defined, was $2.97, $2.90 and $3.15 at the end of 2010, 2009 and 2008,

 

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respectively.  The ore reserve estimates are used to determine the amortization of mine development and intangible assets.

 

Leachable material—

 

At one of its mines the Company capitalizes the cost of materials with low copper content extracted during the mining process (leachable material), which is collected in areas known as leaching dumps.  The amortization of the capitalized costs is determined based on the depletion period of the leaching dumps, which is estimated to be five years.

 

Exploration—

 

Tangible and intangible costs incurred in the search for mineral properties are charged against earnings when incurred.

 

Income taxes—

 

Provisions for income taxes are based on taxes payable or refundable for the current year and deferred taxes on temporary differences between the amount of taxable income and pretax financial income and between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their reported amounts in the financial statements.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the financial statements at currently enacted income tax rates applicable to the period in which the deferred tax assets and liabilities are expected to be realized and settled as prescribed in ASC 740 “Income tax” (in prior literature SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“SFAS 109”)).  As changes in tax laws or rates are enacted, deferred tax assets and liabilities are adjusted through the provision for income taxes.  Deferred income tax assets are reduced by any benefits that, in the opinion of management, are more likely not to be realized.

 

The Company classifies income tax-related interest and penalties as income taxes in the financial statements.

 

The Company’s operations involve dealing with uncertainties and judgments in the application of complex tax regulations in multiple jurisdictions.  The final taxes paid are dependent upon many factors, including negotiations with taxing authorities in various jurisdictions and resolution of disputes arising from federal, state, and international tax audits.  The Company recognizes potential liabilities and records tax liabilities for anticipated tax audit issues in the U.S. and other tax jurisdictions based on its estimate of whether, and the extent to which, additional taxes will be due.  The Company follows the guidance of ASC 740 “Income Tax” (FIN 48 “Uncertain tax positions” in prior literature) to record these liabilities.  (See Note 9 “Income taxes” of the consolidated financial statements for additional information).  The Company adjusts these reserves in light of changing facts and circumstances; however, due to the complexity of some of these uncertainties, the ultimate resolution may result in a payment that is materially different from the Company’s current estimate of the tax liabilities.  If its estimate of tax liabilities proves to be less than the ultimate assessment, an additional charge to expense would result.  If payment of these amounts ultimately proves to be less than the recorded amounts, the reversal of the liabilities would result in tax benefits being recognized in the period when the Company determines the liabilities are no longer necessary.  The Company recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.

 

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Foreign exchange—

 

The Company’s functional currency is the U.S. dollar. As required by local law, both the Peruvian Branch and Minera Mexico maintain their books of accounts in Peruvian nuevos soles and Mexican pesos, respectively.

 

Foreign currency assets and liabilities are remeasured into U.S. dollars at current exchange rates except for non-monetary items such as inventory, property, intangible assets and other assets which are remeasured at historical exchange rates.  Revenues and expenses are generally translated at actual exchange rates in effect during the period, except for those items related to balance sheet amounts that are remeasured at historical exchange rates.  Gains and losses from foreign currency remeasurement are included in earnings of the period.

 

Gains and (losses) resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in “Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion).”

 

Derivative instruments—

 

The Company utilizes certain types of derivative financial instruments to enhance its ability to manage risks that exist as part of its ongoing business operations and to enhance its return on Company assets.  Derivative contracts are reflected as assets or liabilities in the balance sheet at their fair value.  The estimated fair value of the derivatives is based on market and/or dealer quotations and in certain cases valuation modeling.  From time to time the Company has entered into copper and zinc swap contracts to protect a fixed copper and zinc price for portions of its metal sales, hedging contracts to fix power prices for a portion of its production costs, interest rate swap agreements to hedge the interest rate risk exposure on certain of its bank obligations with variable interest rates and currency swap arrangements to ensure Mexican peso/ U.S. dollar conversion rates.  Gains and losses related to copper and zinc hedges are included in net sales, gain and losses related to power costs are included in cost of sales, all other gains and losses on derivative contracts are included in “Gain (loss) on derivative contracts” in the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

The Company assesses the effectiveness of the derivative contracts periodically using either regression analysis or the dollar offset approach, both retrospectively and prospectively, to determine whether the hedging instruments have been highly effective in offsetting changes in fair value of the hedged items.  The hedge derivative positions meet the 80%-125% of effectiveness required.

 

Unrealized gains (losses) on cash flow derivatives that meet the requirements of hedge accounting are included in “other comprehensive income” in the consolidated balance sheet until settlement.

 

Asset impairments -

 

The Company evaluates long-term assets when events or changes in economic circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable.  These evaluations are based on business plans that are prepared using a time horizon that is reflective of the Company’s expectations of metal prices over its business cycle.  The Company is currently using a long-term average copper price of $1.80 per pound of copper and an average molybdenum price of $11.00 per pound, along with near-term price forecast, for 2011 through 2013, reflective of the current price environment, for impairment tests. The results of itsr impairment tests using these long-term copper and molybdenum prices show no impairment in the carrying value of their assets.

 

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In recent years its assumptions for long-term average prices resulted in stricter evaluations for impairment analysis than would the higher three year average prices for copper and molybdenum.  Should this situation reverse in the future with three year average prices below the long-term price assumption, the Company would assess the need to use the three year average prices in its evaluations.  The Company uses an estimate of the future undiscounted net cash flows of the related asset or asset group over the remaining life to measure whether the assets are recoverable and measures any impairment by reference to fair value.

 

Related to the Tia Maria project and based on the current developments of the project the Company has performed an impairment analysis of the project assets and has concluded that no impairment exists as of December 31, 2010.

 

Other comprehensive income—

 

Comprehensive income represents changes in equity during a period, except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners.  During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the components of “other comprehensive income (loss)” were the unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedge derivative instruments, the unrecognized gain (loss) on employee benefit obligations and the unrealized gain on equity securities.

 

Business segments-

 

Company management views Southern Copper as having three reportable segments and manages it on the basis of these segments.  The segments identified by the Company are: 1) the Peruvian operations, which include the two open-pit copper mines in Peru and the plants and services supporting such mines,  2) the Mexican open-pit copper mines, which include La Caridad and Buenavista mine complexes and their supporting facilities and  3) the Mexican underground mining operations, which include five underground mines that produce zinc, copper, silver and gold, a coal mine and a zinc refinery.

 

The Chief Operating Officer of the Company focuses on operating income as measure of performance to evaluate different segments, and to make decisions to allocate resources to the reported segments.

 

Adoption of new accounting principle-

 

During 2010 the Company adopted the following Accounting Standards Updates (“ASU”) to the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (the “ASC”) issued by the Financial Accounting Standard Board (“FASB”).

 

ASU No. 2010-06: In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU No. 2010-06 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures (Topic 820): Improving Disclosures about Fair Value Measurements,” an update of ASC Subtopic 820-10 “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures - Overall.”

 

This ASU includes the following new disclosure requirements:

 

1.               Significant transfers in and out of Levels 1 and 2 fair value measurements and a description of the reasons for the transfers.

 

2.               The reconciliation of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements should present separately information about purchases, sales, issuances and settlements on a gross basis rather than as one net number.

 

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This ASU also clarifies existing disclosures as follows:

 

1.               A reporting entity should provide fair value measurement disclosures for each class of assets and liabilities.  A class is often a subset of assets or liabilities within a line item in the statement of financial position.  A reporting entity needs to use judgment in determining the appropriate classes of assets and liabilities.

2.               Disclosures about inputs and valuation techniques used to measure fair value for both recurring and nonrecurring fair value measurements.  These disclosures are required for fair value measurements that fall in either Level 2 or Level 3.

 

The new disclosures and clarifications of existing disclosures are effective for interim and annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2009, except for the disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in the roll forward of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements, which are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2010, and for interim periods within those fiscal years.  Please see disclosures required in Note 18 “Financial instruments.”

 

ASU 2010-02: In January 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-02 “Accounting and Reporting for Decreases in Ownership of a Subsidiary—a Scope Clarification,” an update of Subtopic 810-10 “Consolidation-Overall” to address implementation issues related to the changes in ownership provisions in Subtopic 810-10, which establishes the accounting and reporting guidance for non-controlling interests and changes in ownership interests of a subsidiary.

 

The amendments in this ASU are effective beginning in the first interim or annual reporting period ending on or after December 15, 2009 and should be applied retrospectively to the first period that an entity adopted Statement 160.  The Company has adopted this ASU and will apply it to future decreases in ownership of subsidiaries.

 

New accounting pronouncements—

 

ASU 2010-29: In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-29 “Disclosure of Supplementary Pro Forma Information for Business Combinations” a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force and an update of Topic 805 “Business combinations”.  The objective of this update is to address diversity in practice about the interpretation of the pro forma revenue and earnings disclosure requirements for business combinations.

 

This ASU specifies that if a public entity presents comparative financial statements, the entity should disclose revenue and earnings of the combined entity as though the business combination that occurred during the current year had occurred as of the beginning of the comparable prior annual reporting period only.

 

Also the ASU clarifies the acquisition date that should be used for reporting the pro forma financial information disclosures in Topic 805 when comparative financial statements are presented and improve the usefulness of the pro forma revenue and earnings disclosures by requiring a description of the nature and amount of material, nonrecurring pro forma adjustments that are directly attributable to the business combination.

 

This ASU is effective prospectively for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2010.  The Company will apply these requirements in any future business combination.

 

ASU 2010-28: In December 2010, the FASB issued ASU 2010-28 “When to Perform Step 2 of the Goodwill Impairment Test for Reporting Units with Zero or Negative Carrying Amounts”

 

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a consensus of the FASB Emerging Issues Task Force and an update of Topic 350 “Intangibles—Goodwill and Other.”

 

This ASU modifies Step 1 of the goodwill impairment test for reporting units with zero or negative carrying amounts.  For those reporting units, an entity is required to perform Step 2 of the goodwill impairment test if it is more likely than not that a goodwill impairment exists.  In determining whether it is more likely than not, that a goodwill impairment exists, an entity should consider whether there are any adverse qualitative factors indicating that an impairment may exist.  The qualitative factors are consistent with the existing guidance and examples in paragraph 350-20-35-30, which requires that goodwill of a reporting unit be tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount.

 

This Update is effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those years, beginning after December 15, 2010.  The Company will apply this guidance in future goodwill impairment analysis.

 

NOTE 4- SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS:

 

Short-term investments were as follows ($ in millions):

 

 

 

At December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Trading securities

 

$

66.9

 

 

Weighted average interest rate

 

1.14

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Available for sale

 

9.3

 

$

22.9

 

Weighted average interest rate

 

1.01

%

0.63

%

Total

 

$

76.2

 

$

22.9

 

 

Trading securities consist of bonds issued by public companies.  Each financial instrument is independent of the others and, as of December 31, 2010, included principally $50.0 million of Petroleos Mexicanos bonds acquired at 99.4% and with original maturity on December 3, 2012, and other bonds.  The Company has the intention to sell these bonds in the short-term.

 

Available for sale investments consist of securities issued by public companies.  Each security is independent of the others and, as of December 31, 2010, included corporate bonds and asset and mortgage backed obligations.  As of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009, gross unrealized gains and losses on available for sale securities were not material.

 

Related to these investments the Company earned interest, which was recorded as interest income in the consolidated statement of earnings.  Also the Company redeemed some of these securities and recognized gains (losses) due to changes in fair value, which were recorded as other income (expense) in the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

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The following table summarizes the activity of these investments by category (in millions):

 

 

 

Years ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Trading:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest earned

 

$

2.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Available for sale:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest earned

 

$

0.2

 

$

0.4

 

Investment redeemed

 

$

14.8

 

$

43.8

 

 

At December 31, 2010 and 2009, contractual maturities of the Company’s available for sale debt securities are as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

One year or less

 

$

0.4

 

$

9.0

 

Maturing after one year through five years

 

0.1

 

4.1

 

Maturing after five years through ten years

 

0.8

 

0.1

 

Due after 10 years

 

8.0

 

9.7

 

Total debt securities

 

$

9.3

 

$

22.9

 

 

NOTE 5-INVENTORIES:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Metals:

 

 

 

 

 

Finished goods

 

$

67.9

 

$

55.5

 

Work-in-process

 

191.5

 

150.8

 

Supplies

 

245.5

 

249.8

 

Total inventories

 

$

504.9

 

$

456.1

 

 

NOTE 6-PROPERTY:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Buildings and equipment

 

$

6,703.8

 

$

6,531.5

 

Construction in progress

 

833.0

 

751.9

 

Mine development

 

301.3

 

288.6

 

Land, other than mineral

 

41.9

 

48.4

 

Total property

 

7,880.0

 

7,620.4

 

Accumulated depreciation, amortization and depletion

 

(3,785.0

)

(3,650.8

)

Total property, net

 

$

4,095.0

 

$

3,969.6

 

 

Depreciation and depletion expense for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, amounted to $279.6 million, $271.2 million and $257.5 million, respectively.

 

NOTE 7-CAPITALIZED LEACHABLE MATERIAL COST:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Capitalized leachable material

 

$

378.1

 

$

378.1

 

Accumulated amortization

 

(312.4

)

(270.8

)

Capitalized leachable material, net

 

$

65.7

 

$

107.3

 

 

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Amortization of leachable material is included in depreciation, amortization and depletion on the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

NOTE 8-INTANGIBLE ASSETS:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Mining concessions

 

$

121.2

 

$

121.2

 

Mine engineering and development studies

 

6.0

 

6.0

 

Software

 

7.6

 

7.0

 

 

 

134.8

 

134.2

 

Accumulated amortization

 

(39.5

)

(37.4

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Goodwill

 

17.0

 

17.0

 

Intangible assets, net

 

$

112.3

 

$

113.8

 

 

Amortization of intangibles in the last three years and estimated amortization are as follows (in millions):

 

Amortization expense:

 

 

 

2010

 

$

2.1

 

2009

 

$

2.4

 

2008

 

$

2.0

 

 

 

 

 

Estimated amortization expense:

 

 

 

2011-2015

 

$

14.0

 

Average annual

 

$

2.8

 

 

The goodwill was generated in 1997 as a result of purchasing a third party interest in the Buenavista mine.

 

NOTE 9-INCOME TAXES:

 

The components of the provision for income taxes are as follows:

 

 

 

Years ended December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

U.S. federal and state:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current

 

$

40.3

 

$

(34.6

)

$

(29.9

)

Deferred

 

(10.5

)

33.4

 

(15.1

)

 

 

29.8

 

(1.2

)

(45.0

)

Foreign (Peru and Mexico):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current

 

843.5

 

463.2

 

809.3

 

Deferred

 

(5.2

)

7.8

 

(85.0

)

 

 

838.3

 

471.0

 

724.3

 

Total provision for income taxes

 

$

868.1

 

$

469.8

 

$

679.3

 

 

The source of income tax is as follows:

 

 

 

For the years ended December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Earnings by location:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S.

 

$

(1.0

)

$

4.2

 

$

1.2

 

Foreign (Peru and Mexico)

 

2,431.8

 

1,400.2

 

2,092.6

 

Earnings before taxes on income

 

$

2,430.8

 

$

1,404.4

 

$

2,093.8

 

 

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The reconciliation of the statutory income tax rate to the effective tax rate is as follows:

 

 

 

For the years ended December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Expected tax

 

30.0

%

30.0

%

30.0

%

Effect of income taxed at a rate other than the statutory rate

 

5.3

 

8.3

 

7.0

 

Percentage depletion

 

(4.3

)

(5.0

)

(5.1

)

Other permanent differences

 

1.8

 

2.1

 

1.3

 

Peru tax on net income deemed distributed

 

2.0

 

2.0

 

2.0

 

Mexican tax on dividends

 

0.4

 

1.6

 

 

Increase (decrease) in unrecognized tax benefits for uncertain tax positions

 

4.6

 

(3.9

)

(3.7

)

Other

 

(4.1

)

(1.6

)

1.0

 

Effective income tax rate

 

35.7

%

33.5

%

32.5

%

 

The Company files income tax returns in three jurisdictions, Peru, Mexico and the United States.  For the three years presented above the statutory income tax rates for Peru and the United States were 30% and 35%, respectively.  The statutory income tax rate for Mexico was 30% in 2010 and 28% in 2009 and 2008.  The expected rate used above is the statutory tax rate for Peru for all three years and for Mexico in 2010.  The Mexican statutory income tax rate increased from 28% to 30% from 2010 through 2012.  The rate will decrease to 29% in 2013, and will return to 28% in 2014 and thereafter.

 

The Company has chosen to use the Peruvian income tax rate of 30% for this tax rate reconciliation because the Peruvian income tax provision is the largest component of tax expense for each of the three years presented.  In addition, in 2010 the Peruvian and Mexican rate were both 30%.  For all of the years presented, both the Peruvian branch and Minera Mexico filed separate tax returns in their respective tax jurisdictions.  SCC filed a separate full year U.S. federal income tax return for calendar year 2008 and a final short period separate return for the period January 1, 2009 through March 27, 2009.  SCC’s taxable income for the 2009 period post March 27 was included in the U.S. federal income tax return of AMC, its parent company; see U.S tax matters, below.  For financial reporting and presentation purposes SCC is providing current and deferred income taxes, as if it remains a separate U.S. tax filer apart from AMC.

 

Although the tax rules and regulations imposed in the separate tax jurisdictions may vary significantly, similar permanent items exist, such as items which are nondeductible or nontaxable.  Some permanent differences relate specifically to SCC such as the allowance in the U.S for percentage depletion.

 

The following items had the most significant impact in 2010 on the difference between the Company’s statutory income tax rate of 30% and its effective tax rate:

 

·                  A 5.3% increase resulted from income taxed at a rate other than the statutory rate.

·                  A 4.3% decrease resulted from the depletion deduction which is a U.S. permanent item.

·                  A 1.8% increase resulted from permanent items that are not deductible in the Peruvian, Mexican or U.S. jurisdictions.

·                  A 2.0% increase resulted from tax on financial income deemed distributed from the Company’s Peruvian Branch.

·                  A 0.4% increase resulted from the change in Mexican tax consolidation rules.  Income tax expense was recognized on dividends in excess of tax retained earnings accounts that are distributed among entities of a consolidated tax group.

 

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·                  A 4.6% increase resulting from changes in U.S. tax positions related to Uncertainty in income tax positions.

 

Deferred taxes include the U.S., Peruvian and Mexican tax effects of the following types of temporary differences and carryforwards:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Inventories

 

$

8.0

 

$

4.8

 

Capitalized exploration expenses

 

19.8

 

16.6

 

Foreign tax credit carryforward

 

 

28.8

 

U.S tax effect of Peruvian deferred tax liability

 

38.6

 

65.1

 

Capital loss carryforward

 

30.0

 

30.5

 

Metal hedging

 

82.5

 

 

Reserves

 

49.0

 

50.1

 

Mexican tax loss carryforward

 

37.5

 

27.3

 

Labor share buyback

 

30.0

 

29.4

 

Valuation allowance

 

(30.0

)

(30.5

)

Other

 

31.4

 

21.8

 

Total deferred tax assets

 

296.8

 

243.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

(216.3

)

(244.6

)

Deferred charges

 

(25.0

)

(26.7

)

Mexican tax on consolidated dividends

 

(32.7

)

(22.6

)

Outside basis difference

 

(20.0

)

(19.8

)

Other

 

(8.2

)

(1.4

)

Total deferred tax liabilities

 

(302.2

)

(315.1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total net deferred tax assets / (liabilities)

 

$

(5.4

)

$

(71.2

)

 

U.S. Tax Matters—

 

For the years ending December 31, 2010 and 2009, the Company had unused U.S. net capital losses of $30.0 million and $30.5 million, respectively, related to closed derivative transactions.  These capital losses may be carried forward and will expire in 2011 and 2012 if not offset against U.S. capital gains before then.  The Company has placed a full valuation allowance of $30.0 million on the capital loss carryforwards because management believes it is not likely that the benefit of this capital loss carryforwards will be realized.

 

As of December 31, 2010, the Company has not provided a U.S. deferred tax liability for $1.8 billion of outside basis differences in its Mexican subsidiaries. The Company considers the investments to be permanent in duration and quantification of the related deferred tax liability is not practicable.

 

At December 31, 2010, there were no foreign tax credits available for carryback or carryforward.  There were no other U.S. tax credits at December 31, 2010.

 

As of March 27, 2009, Grupo Mexico, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, AMC, became the beneficial owner of 80% of SCC’s common stock.  As a result of this new level of ownership, beginning March 27, 2009, SCC’s operating results are included in the AMC consolidated U.S. federal income tax return.  In addition to now holding an 80% interest in SCC, AMC also owns 100% of Asarco and its subsidiaries.  In accordance with paragraph 30-27 of ASC 740-10-30, it is expected that current and deferred taxes will be allocated to members of the AMC group as if each were a separate taxpayer.  The Company has initiated discussions with AMC to put in place a tax sharing agreement

 

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in order to establish this allocation, as well as other procedures and policies necessary for an equitable management of U.S. federal income tax matters.  SCC provides current and deferred income taxes, as if it were a separate filer.

 

Peruvian Tax Matters—

 

The Company obtains income tax credits in Peru for value-added taxes paid in connection with the purchase of capital equipment and other goods and services, employed in its operations and records these credits as a prepaid expense.  Under current Peruvian law, the Company is entitled to use the credits against its Peruvian income tax liability or to receive a refund.  The carrying value of these Peruvian tax credits approximates their net realizable value.

 

Mexican Tax Matters—

 

In 2009, Mexico enacted new tax laws, which, among other things, impose restrictions on certain benefits of tax consolidation and temporarily increased the statutory tax rate.

 

Under the previous tax consolidation rules, Mexican companies were allowed to indefinitely defer taxes assessed on dividends in excess of tax-basis retained earnings accounts that are distributed among entities of a consolidated tax group, and the offsetting net operating losses (NOL’s) incurred by one entity against the profits of another entity, until the occurrence of certain events, such as the dissolution of the tax consolidation regime.  The new law, which applies retroactively to qualifying dividends paid and the net operating losses since 1999, eliminates the indefinite deferral period and requires payment of the tax beginning in the sixth year following the dividend.  The new law applies retroactively and reduced the NOL carryforward period from ten years to five years.  The total liability affected by these amendments is $106.6 million.  This amount includes an additional liability of $22.6 million recognized in 2009 and recorded as income tax expense in the consolidated statement of earnings; the balance of the liability $84 million has been recorded as a deferred tax charge in prior years.

 

In June 2010 the Mexican parent company made a tax payment of 121 million Mexican pesos (approximately $10 million) in accordance with the change in the law.  In subsequent years these taxes will be paid each March.

 

The Mexican statutory income tax rate increased to 30% from 2010 through 2012, will decrease to 29% in 2013, and to 28% in 2014 and thereafter.

 

Mexican companies are subject to a dual tax system comprised of regular income tax and a corporate flat tax that was enacted in 2007.  The rate under the corporate flat tax law is 17.5%.  Mexican companies pay the greater of the corporate flat tax or regular income tax and determine its deferred income taxes based on the tax regime it expects to be subject to in the future.  Based on earnings projections, the Company believes it will be subject to regular income tax for the foreseeable future and has calculated its temporary differences and deferred taxes based on the regular income tax law.

 

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Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes-

 

The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits in 2010, 2009 and 2008, was as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Unrecognized tax benefits, opening balance

 

$

30.7

 

$

64.9

 

$

136.3

 

Gross increases — tax positions in prior period

 

46.3

 

 

11.6

 

Gross decreases — tax positions in prior period

 

(1.8

)

(44.1

)

 

Recognition of benefits from resolution of issues with IRS

 

 

 

(90.2

)

Gross increases — current-period tax positions

 

0.5

 

11.4

 

17.6

 

Decreases related to settlements with taxing authorities

 

 

(1.5

)

(10.4

)

Unrecognized tax benefits, ending balance

 

$

75.7

 

$

30.7

 

$

64.9

 

 

The increase in the 2010 unrecognized tax benefit of $45.0 million relates primarily to a 2009 highly certain unrecognized tax benefit that was transferred to the U.S. tax return for the 2009 filing.

 

The amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate was $35.0 million at December 31, 2010 and $19.0 million at December 31, 2009.  These amounts relate entirely to U.S. income tax matters.  The Company has no unrecognized Peruvian or Mexican tax benefits.

 

As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the Company’s liability for uncertain tax positions included accrued interest and penalties of $8.0 million and $6.6 million, respectively.

 

During 2008 and 2009, the Company and the IRS reached agreements with respect to the audited results of the Company’s 1997 through 2004 U.S. federal income tax returns.  The Company has made payments of $29.7 million, including $18.3 million of interest, to the IRS for the settlement of the audits.

 

In the United States, the tax years 2005, 2006 and 2007 are currently under IRS field examination, which commenced in November 2008.  Management does not expect that any of the open years will result in a cash payment within the preceding twelve months of December 31, 2011.  The Company’s reasonable expectations about future resolutions of uncertain items did not materially change during the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

The following tax years remain open to examination and adjustment by the Company’s three major tax jurisdictions:

 

Peru:

2007 up to 2009 (years 1997 through 2006 have been examined by the Peruvian tax authority and the issues raised are being contested; no new issues can be raised for these years)

U.S.:

2005 and all future years

Mexico:

2002 and all future years

 

NOTE 10-WORKERS’ PARTICIPATION:

 

The Company’s operations in Peru and Mexico are subject to statutory workers’ participation.

 

In Peru, the provision for workers’ participation is calculated at 8% of pre-tax earnings.  The current portion of this participation, which is accrued during the year, is based on Peruvian Branch’s taxable income and is distributed to workers following determination of final results for the year.  The annual amount payable to an individual worker is capped at the worker’s salary for an 18 months period.

 

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Amounts determined in excess of the 18 months of worker’s salary is no longer made as a payment to the worker and is levied first for the benefit of the “Fondo Nacional de Capacitacion Laboral y de Promocion del Empleo” (National Workers’ Training and Employment Promotion Fund) until this entity receives from all employers in its region an amount equivalent to 2,200 Peruvian taxable units (approximately $2.8 million in 2010).  Any remaining excess is levied as payment for the benefit of the regional governments. These levies fund worker training, employment promotion, road infrastructure and other government programs.

 

In Mexico, workers’ participation is determined using the guidelines established in the Mexican income tax law at a rate of 10% of pre-tax earnings as adjusted by the tax law.

 

The provision for workers’ participation is included in “Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)” in the consolidated statement of earnings.  The workers’ participation expenses for the three years ended December 31, 2010 were as follows (in millions):

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

$

244.3

 

$

134.7

 

$

212.1

 

 

NOTE 11-ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATION:

 

The Company maintains an estimated asset retirement obligation for its mining properties in Peru, as required by the Peruvian Mine Closure Law.  In accordance with the requirements of this law the Company submitted closure plans to the MINEM.  These plans have been open to public discussion in the areas of the Company’s operations and in 2009 were approved by MINEM.  As part of the closure plans, commencing in January 2010 the Company is required to provide annual guarantees of $2.6 million over a 34 year period to furnish the funds for the asset retirement obligation.  In the near-term future the Company has pledged the value of its Lima office complex as support for this obligation.  The accepted value of the Lima office building, for this purpose, is $17 million.  In 2009, the Company adjusted its original retirement obligation to record the liability established in its mine closure plans.  In 2010, the closure plan for the new Ilo marine trestle was added to the asset retirement obligation.

 

The closure cost recognized for this liability includes the cost, as outlined in its closure plans, of dismantling the Toquepala and Cuajone concentrators, the smelter and refinery in Ilo, and the shops and auxiliary facilities at the three units.

 

The following table summarizes the asset retirement obligation activity for the two years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Balance as of January 1

 

$

48.9

 

$

18.0

 

Changes in estimates

 

5.3

 

27.9

 

Additions

 

1.6

 

 

Accretion expense

 

3.3

 

3.0

 

Balance as of December 31,

 

$

59.1

 

$

48.9

 

 

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NOTE 12-FINANCING:

 

Long-term debt:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

1.71% Mitsui credit agreement due 2013 (Japanese LIBO rate plus 1.25% (2.47% at December 31, 2009))

 

$

30.0

 

$

40.0

 

6.375% Notes due 2015 ($200 million face amount, less unamortized discount of $0.7 million and $0.8 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively)

 

199.3

 

199.2

 

5.375% Notes due 2020 ($400 million face amount, less unamortized discount of $2.0 million at December 31,2010)

 

398.0

 

 

9.25% Yankee bonds—Series B due 2028

 

56.4

 

56.4

 

7.50% Notes due 2035 ($1,000 million face amount, less unamortized discount of $15.2 million and $15.3 million at December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively)

 

984.8

 

984.7

 

6.75% Notes due 2040 ($1,100 million face amount, less unamortized discount of $8.1 million at December 31, 2010)

 

1,091.9

 

 

Total debt

 

2,760.4

 

1,280.3

 

Less, current portion

 

(10.0

)

(10.0

)

Total long-term debt

 

$

2,750.4

 

$

1,270.3

 

 

The bonds, referred above as “Yankee bonds”, contain a covenant requiring Minera Mexico to maintain a ratio of EBITDA to interest expense of not less than 2.5 to 1.0 as such terms are defined by the facility.  At December 31, 2010, Minera Mexico is in compliance with this covenant.

 

The Mitsui credit agreement is collateralized by pledges of receivables on 31,000 tons of copper per year.  The Mitsui agreement requires the Company to maintain a minimum stockholders’ equity of $750 million and a specific ratio of debt to equity.  Reduction of Grupo Mexico’s direct or indirect voting interest in the Company to less than a majority would constitute an event of default under the Mitsui agreement.  At December 31, 2010, the Company is in compliance with these covenants.

 

In July 2005 the Company issued $200 million 6.375% Notes due 2015 at a discount of $1.1 million and $600 million 7.5% Notes due 2035, at a discount of $5.3 million.  The notes are senior unsecured obligations of the Company.  The Company capitalized $8.8 million of costs associated with this facility and is included in “Other assets”, non-current on the consolidated balance sheet.  The net proceeds from the issuance and sale of the notes were principally used to repay outstanding indebtedness of the Company and the balance was used for general corporate purposes.  The Company filed a registration statement on Form S-4 with respect to these notes in October 2005.  In January 2006 the Company completed an exchange offer for $200 million, 6.375% Notes due 2015 and $600 million, 7.5% Notes due 2035.  In the exchange offer, $197.4 million of the 6.375% old notes due 2015 were tendered in exchange for an equivalent amount of new notes and an aggregate of $590.5 million of the 7.5% old notes due 2035 were tendered in exchange for an equivalent amount of new notes.  The indentures relating to the notes contain certain covenants, including limitations on liens, limitations on sale and leaseback transactions, rights of the holders of the notes upon the occurrence of a change of control triggering event, limitations on subsidiary indebtedness and limitations on consolidations, mergers, sales or conveyances.  All of these limitations and restrictions are subject to a number of significant exceptions, and some of these covenants will cease to be applicable before the notes mature if the notes attain an investment grade rating.  At December 31, 2010 the Company is in compliance with these covenants.

 

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On May 9, 2006, the Company issued an additional $400 million 7.5% notes due 2035.  These notes are in addition to the $600 million of existing 7.5% notes due 2035 that were issued in July 2005.  The current transaction was issued at a spread of +240 basis points over the 30-year U.S. Treasury bond.  The original issue in July 2005 was issued at a spread of +315 basis points over the 30-year U.S. Treasury bond.  The notes were issued at a discount of $10.8 million.  The Company capitalized $3.2 million of cost associated with this facility and is included in non-current “Other assets, net” on the consolidated balance sheet.  The Company used proceeds from the May 2006 issuance for its expansion programs.

 

The notes issued in July 2005 and the new notes issued in May 2006 are treated as a single series of notes under the indenture, including for purposes of covenants, waivers and amendments.  The Company has registered these notes under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

On April 16, 2010 the Company issued $1.5 billion in fixed-rate unsecured notes with a discount of $10.3 million, which is being amortized over the term of the related debt.  Net proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes, including the financing of the Company’s capital expenditure program.

 

The $1.5 billion fixed-rate senior unsecured notes were issued in two tranches, $400 million due in 2020 at an annual interest rate of 5.375% and $1.1 billion due in 2040 at an annual interest rate of 6.75%.  The Company has registered these notes under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

Interest on the notes will be paid semi-annually in arrears.  The notes will constitute the Company’s general unsecured obligations and the series of notes will rank pari passu with each other and will rank pari passu in right of payment with all of the Company’s other existing and future unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness.

 

Also, related to these notes the Company has deferred $8.2 million of costs associated with the issuance of this facility, which is included in “Other assets” non-current in the consolidated balance sheet and is being amortized as interest expense over the life of the loans.

 

In connection with the transaction, on April 16, 2010 the Company entered into a base indenture with Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, as well as a first supplemental indenture  and a second supplemental indenture which provide for the issuance, and set forth the terms of, the two tranches of notes described above.  The indentures contain covenants that limit the Company’s ability to, among other things, incur certain liens securing indebtedness, engage in certain sale and leaseback transactions, and enter into certain consolidations, mergers, conveyances, transfers or leases of all or substantially all the Company’s assets.  If the Company experiences a Change of Control Triggering Event (as defined in the indentures governing the notes), the Company must offers to repurchase the notes at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any.  A Change of Control Trigger Event also includes a rating decline, that is, if the rating of the notes, by at least one of the rating agencies shall be decreased by one or more gradations.

 

The Company may issue additional debt from time to time pursuant to the base indenture.

 

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Changes in Credit Risk Rating:

 

In connection with the issuance of the $1.5 billion new notes, on April 1, 2010 Moody’s investor service upgraded to Baa2 from Baa3 the Company’s senior unsecured ratings and the rating on its Yankee bonds.  Also on April 5, 2010 Fitch and Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”) ratings services assigned ratings of ‘BBB’ and ‘BBB-’, respectively, to the new notes issued.  At the same time, these credit rating agencies confirmed their long-term corporate credit rating on SCC (‘Baa2’, ‘BBB and ‘BBB- for Moody’s, Fitch and S&P, respectively).

 

Aggregate maturities of the outstanding borrowings at December 31, 2010, are as follows:

 

Years

 

Principal Due (*)

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

2011

 

$

10.0

 

2012

 

10.0

 

2013

 

10.0

 

2014

 

 

2015

 

200.0

 

Thereafter

 

2,556.4

 

Total

 

$

2,786.4

 

 


(*)Total debt maturities do not include the debt discount valuation account of $26.0 million.

 

At December 31, 2010 and 2009, other assets included $5.3 million for both periods, held in escrow accounts as required by the Company’s loan agreements.  The funds are released from escrow as scheduled loan repayments are made.

 

At December 31, 2010 and 2009, the balance of capitalized debt issuance costs was $19.3 million and $10.9 million, respectively.  Amortization charged to interest expense was $0.9 million, $0.5 million and $0.6 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively

 

NOTE 13-BENEFIT PLANS:

 

Peruvian operations

 

The Company has two noncontributory defined benefit pension plans covering former salaried employees in the United States and certain former employees in Peru.  It also has a post-retirement health care plan.

 

Peru Defined Benefit Pension Plans.

 

Effective October 31, 2000, the Board of Directors amended the qualified pension plan to suspend the accrual of benefits.

 

The components of net periodic benefit costs calculated in accordance with ASC 715 “Compensation retirement benefits” (in prior literature SFAS No. 87 “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions”), using December 31 as a measurement date, consist of the following:

 

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Years ended December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Interest cost

 

$

0.6

 

$

0.7

 

$

0.7

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(0.7

)

(0.6

)

(0.5

)

Amortization of net loss

 

0.1

 

0.1

 

(*

)

Net periodic benefit cost

 

$

 

$

0.2

 

$

0.2

 

 


(*)Less than $0.1 million

 

The change in benefit obligation and plan assets and a reconciliation of funded status are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Change in benefit obligation:

 

 

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year

 

$

12.1

 

$

11.4

 

Interest cost

 

0.6

 

0.7

 

Benefits paid

 

(0.9

)

(0.9

)

Actuarial gain (loss)census

 

0.1

 

0.1

 

Actuarial gain (loss)assumption changes

 

0.6

 

0.8

 

Projected benefit obligation at end of year

 

$

12.5

 

$

12.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in plan assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

 

$

16.5

 

$

12.9

 

Actual return on plan assets

 

1.0

 

1.2

 

Employer contributions

 

 

3.3

 

Benefits paid

 

(0.9

)

(0.9

)

Administrative expenses

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

 

$

16.6

 

$

16.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Funded status at end of year:

 

$

4.1

 

$

4.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASC-715 amounts recognized in statement of financial position consists of:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-current assets

 

$

4.1

 

$

4.4

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

 

 

 

Total

 

$

4.1

 

$

4.4

 

 

ASC-715 amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consists of:

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss (gain) net of income tax

 

$

2.5

 

$

2.3

 

Prior service cost (credit)

 

 

 

 

Transition obligation (asset)

 

 

 

Total (net of income tax of $1.3 million and $1.2 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively)

 

$

2.5

 

$

2.3

 

 

The following table summarizes the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, related to the defined benefit pension plan, net of income tax:

 

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As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Reconciliation of accumulated other comprehensive income:

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at beginning of plan year

 

$

2.3

 

$

2.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss/(gain) amortized during the year

 

(*

)

(*

)

Net loss/(gain) occurring during the year

 

0.2

 

0.1

 

Net adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income

 

0.2

 

0.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at end of plan year

 

$

2.5

 

$

2.3

 

 


(*)Less than $0.1 million

 

The following table summarizes the amounts in accumulative other comprehensive income amortized and recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in 2010 and 2009, net of income tax:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Net loss / (gain)

 

$

0.1

 

$

0.1

 

Amortization of net (loss) gain

 

(*

)

(*

)

Total amortization expenses

 

$

0.1

 

$

0.1

 

 


(*)Less than $0.1 million

 

The assumptions used to determine the pension obligation and seniority premiums as of year-end and the net cost in the ensuing year are:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Discount rate

 

5.00

%

5.55

%

6.30

%

Expected long-term rate of return on plan asset

 

4.50

%

4.50

%

4.50

%

Rate of increase in future compensation level

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

N/A

 

 

The scheduled maturities of the benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years, and thereafter, are as follows:

 

Years

 

Expected
Benefit Payments

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

2011

 

$

0.9

 

2012

 

0.9

 

2013

 

0.9

 

2014

 

0.9

 

2015

 

0.9

 

2016 to 2020

 

4.6

 

Total

 

$

9.1

 

 

The Company’s funding policy is to contribute amounts to the qualified plan sufficient to meet the minimum funding requirements set forth in the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, plus such additional amounts as the Company may determine to be appropriate.  Plan assets are invested in stock and bond funds.

 

Plan assets are invested in a Group Annuity Contract (the “Contract”) with Metropolitan Life Insurance Company (“MetLife”).  The Contract’s only investment is in units of a MetLife Broad Market Bond Fund (the “Fund”) managed by BlackRock, Inc. (“BlackRock”).  The investment objective of this Fund is to outperform the Barclays Capital U.S.  Aggregate Bond Index, net of fees, over a full market cycle.  The Fund

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invests in publicly traded, investment grade securities with target duration within one and a half years of the Barclays Index duration. The market value of the Fund assets is certified by MetLife.

 

The investment allocation decisions within the Fund, as reported to the Company by MetLife effective December 31, 2010, were as follows:

 

The Fund retained its underweight position in Treasuries, as BlackRock sees better relative value in other high quality spread products.  Within the Agencies sector (which includes Federal Mortgage Issuers such as FMNA and FHLBC), the Fund maintained its overweight position to the sector and reduced its exposure to Agency debentures while maintaining an allocation to FDIC-guaranteed bonds given the attractive spread pickup to Treasuries.  Within the Mortgage sector, BlackRock is significantly underweight 30-year Mortgage Backed Security (MBS) pass-throughs given the risk of spread widening as Fed purchases slow.  BlackRock has a close to neutral 15-year conventional MBS allocation, and is focused on seasonal pools as they enjoy broad based technical support and offer fundamental value in light of prepayment uncertainties.  BlackRock maintains a modest allocation to Non-Agency MBS positions given attractive loss-adjusted yields.

 

Within the Credit sector the Fund is opportunistically adding exposure through both primary and secondary markets with continued focus on high quality, non-cyclical industries and companies with strong balance sheets.  BlackRock continues to favor high-quality Non-Corporate Credit, such as sovereign-related bonds.  BlackRock is looking to increase exposure to the Taxable Municipal sector given attractive valuations.  Within the Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (CMBS) sector, the Fund has maintained an overweight position to seasoned CMBS classes as they are backed by more conservatively underwritten collateral and have lower expected losses.  BlackRock reduced the Fund’s holdings of new vintage super-senior paper to market weight.  Within the Asset Backed Securities sector, BlackRock maintains an up-in-quality bias favoring top-tier, prime issuers.  Within sub-sectors, BlackRock continues to prefer short-dated automobile loans, credit cards and the Federal Family Education Loan Program.

 

The Company’s policy for determining asset mix-targets includes periodic consultation with recognized third party investment consultants.  The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is updated periodically, taking into consideration asset allocations, historical returns and the current economic environment.  Based on these factors the Company expects its assets will earn an average of 4.5% per annum assuming its long-term mix will be consistent with its current mix and an assumed discount rate of 5.0%.  The fair value of plan assets is impacted by general market conditions.  If actual returns on plan assets vary from the expected returns, actual results could differ.

 

Peru Post-retirement Health Care Plan—

 

The Company adopted the post-retirement health care plan for retired salaried employees eligible for Medicare on May 1, 1996.  The plan is unfunded.

 

Effective October 31, 2000, the health care plan for retirees was terminated and the Company informed retirees that they would be covered by the then in effect post-retirement health care plan of Asarco, a former shareholder of the Company and a subsidiary of Grupo Mexico, which offered substantially the same benefits and required the same contributions.  Asarco is no longer managing the plan.  The Company has assumed management of the plan and is currently providing health benefits to retirees.  The plan is accounted for in accordance with ASC 715 “Compensation retirement

 

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benefits” (in prior literature SFAS No. 106, “Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions”, as amended by SFAS No. 158).

 

The components of net period benefit costs are as follows:

 

 

 

Years ended December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Service cost

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

Amortization of net loss / (gain)

 

(*

)

(*

)

(*

)

Amortization of prior service cost / (credit)

 

(*

)

(*

)

(*

)

Interest cost

 

0.1

 

0.1

 

0.1

 

Net periodic benefit cost

 

$

0.1

 

$

0.1

 

$

0.1

 

 


(*)Less than $0.1 million

 

The change in benefit obligation and a reconciliation of funded status are as follows:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Change in benefit obligation:

 

 

 

 

 

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

 

$

2.0

 

$

1.9

 

Interest cost

 

0.1

 

0.1

 

Actuarial loss / (gain) — claims cost

 

(0.3

)

 

Benefits paid

 

(0.2

)

(0.1

)

Actuarial (gain) loss

 

0.1

 

0.1

 

Benefit obligation at end of year

 

$

1.7

 

$

2.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in plan assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

 

$

 

$

 

Employer contributions

 

0.1

 

0.1

 

Benefits paid

 

(0.1

)

(0.1

)

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

 

$

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Funded status at end of year

 

$

(1.7

)

$

(2.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASC 715 amounts recognized in statement of financial position consists of:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-current assets

 

$

 

$

 

Current liabilities

 

(0.1

)

(0.1

)

Non-current liabilities

 

(1.6

)

(1.9

)

Total

 

$

(1.7

)

$

(2.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASC 715 amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consists of:

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss (gain)

 

$

0.8

 

$

1.1

 

Prior service cost (credit)

 

(0.2

)

(0.2

)

Total (net of income tax)

 

$

0.6

 

$

0.9

 

 

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The following table summarizes the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income for the year ended December 31, related to the post-retirement health care plan, net of income tax:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Reconciliation of accumulated other comprehensive income:

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at beginning of plan year

 

$

0.6

 

$

0.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss /(gain) occurring during the year

 

(0.1

)

0.1

 

Net loss/gain amortized during the year

 

(*

)

(*

)

Net adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income

 

$

(0.1

)

$

0.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at end of plan year

 

$

0.5

 

$

0.6

 

 


(*) Less than $0.1 million

 

The following table summarizes the amounts in accumulative other comprehensive income amortized and recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost in 2010, (net of income tax):

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Net loss (gain)

 

$

(0.1

)

$

0.1

 

Amortization of prior service cost (credit)

 

(*

)

(*

)

Amortization of net losses

 

(*

)

(*

)

Total amortization expenses

 

$

(0.1

)

$

0.1

 

 

The discount rate used in the calculation of other post-retirement benefits and cost as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 was 5.00% and 5.55%, respectively.

 

The benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years, and thereafter, are as follows:

 

Year

 

Expected
Benefit Payments

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

2011

 

$

0.1

 

2012

 

0.1

 

2013

 

0.1

 

2014

 

0.1

 

2015

 

0.1

 

2016 to 2020

 

0.7

 

Total

 

$

1.2

 

 

For measurement purposes, 6.0% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed for 2010.  The rate is assumed to decrease gradually to 4.5%.

 

Assumed health care cost trend rates can have a significant effect on the amount reported for the health care plan.  A one percentage-point change in assumed health care trend rate would not have a significant effect.

 

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Mexican operations

 

Minera Mexico Defined Benefit Pension Plans—

 

Minera Mexico has established for its salaried employees a defined contribution benefit pension plan.  This plan is in addition to benefits granted by the Instituto Mexicano de Seguro Social (IMSS).  Under this plan, the Company will make yearly matching contributions equaling 3% of participating employee’s base salary.  Related to this, the Company recorded a contribution expense of $0.9 million and $1.0 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively.  The defined contribution plan liability was $1.8 million and $2.5 million in 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

Minera Mexico has established for its union employees a non-contributory defined benefit pension plan.  This plan is in addition to benefits granted by IMSS.

 

The components of net periodic benefit costs calculated in accordance with ASC 715 “Compensation retirement benefits” (in prior literature SFAS No. 87 “Employers Accounting for Pensions”), using December 31 as a measurement date, consist of the following:

 

 

 

For the years ended December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Interest cost

 

$

1.6

 

$

1.5

 

$

2.0

 

Service cost

 

2.1

 

1.8

 

2.4

 

Expected return on plan assets

 

(3.0

)

(2.2

)

(2.9

)

Amortization of transition assets, net

 

 

(0.1

)

(0.1

)

Amortization of net actuarial loss

 

(1.0

)

(0.1

)

(0.7

)

Amortization of prior services cost

 

0.2

 

0.2

 

0.2

 

Settlement/curtailment(*)

 

(19.0

)

 

 

Net periodic benefit cost

 

$

(19.1

)

$

1.1

 

$

0.9

 

 

The change in benefit obligation and plan assets are as follows:

 

 

 

December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Change in benefit obligation:

 

 

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year

 

$

32.5

 

$

26.9

 

Service cost

 

2.1

 

1.8

 

Interest cost

 

1.6

 

1.5

 

Actuarial (loss) gain, net

 

(0.6

)

1.8

 

Amendments

 

 

 

Benefits paid

 

(0.9

)

(0.4

)

Settlement/Curtailment (*)

 

(23.7

)

(0.1

)

Inflation adjustment

 

1.7

 

1.0

 

Projected benefit obligation at end of year

 

$

12.7

 

$

32.5

 

 


(*)Included in the 2010 settlement/curtailment amount is a payment of $11.9 million severance to Buenavista workers who accepted the Company’s buyout offer.

 

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Change in plan assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

 

$

38.8

 

$

26.7

 

Actual return on plan assets

 

6.9

 

12.1

 

Employer contribution

 

(0.6

)

 

Transfer of assets

 

 

(0.6

)

Benefits paid

 

(0.9

)

(0.4

)

Currency exchange rate adjustment

 

2.1

 

1.0

 

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

 

$

46.3

 

$

38.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Funded status at end of year:

 

$

33.6

 

$

6.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASC 715 amounts recognized in statement of financial position consists of:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-current assets

 

$

33.6

 

$

6.3

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

 

 

 

Total

 

$

33.6

 

$

6.3

 

ASC 715 amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consists of:

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss (gain)

 

$

(11.2

)

$

(6.7

)

Prior service cost (credit)

 

 

0.7

 

Transition obligation (asset)

 

(0.1

)

(0.1

)

Total (net of income tax of $7.6 million and $3.8 million, respectively)

 

$

(11.3

)

$

(6.1

)

 

The following table summarizes the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively related to Minera Mexico’s defined benefit pension plan, net of income tax:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Reconciliation of accumulated other comprehensive income:

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at beginning of plan Year

 

$

(6.1

)

$

(1.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Amortization of transition obligation (asset)

 

 

 

Prior services cost amortized during the year

 

(0.1

)

(0.1

)

Net loss/gain amortized during the year

 

0.6

 

0.1

 

Net gains occurring during the year.

 

(2.7

)

(5.1

)

Settlement/curtailment

 

(2.8

)

 

 

Currency exchange rate changes

 

(0.2

)

 

Net adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income

 

(5.2

)

(5.1

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at end of plan year

 

$

(11.3

)

$

(6.1

)

 

The following table summarizes the amounts in accumulative other comprehensive income amortized and recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost, net of income tax:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Amortization of transition asset

 

$

 

$

(0.1

)

Amortization of net losses

 

0.6

 

0.1

 

Amortization of prior services cost

 

(0.1

)

 

Total amortization expenses

 

$

0.5

 

$

 

 

The assumptions used to determine the pension obligation and seniority premiums as of year-end and net cost in the ensuing year were:

 

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2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Weighted average discount rate

 

7.5

%

8.0

%

8.0

%

Expected long-term rate of return on plan asset

 

7.5

%

8.0

%

8.0

%

Rate of increase in future compensation level

 

4.0

%

0.0

%

4.5

%

 

These rates are based on Mexican pesos as pension plan payments will be paid in Mexico.

 

The benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years, and thereafter, are as follows:

 

Years

 

Expected
Benefit Payments

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

2011

 

$

7.8

 

2012

 

0.6

 

2013

 

0.5

 

2014

 

0.6

 

2015

 

0.6

 

2016 to 2018

 

3.7

 

Total

 

$

13.8

 

 

Minera Mexico’s policy for determining asset mix targets includes periodic consultation with recognized third party investment consultants.  The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is updated periodically, taking into consideration assets allocations, historical returns and the current economic environment.  The fair value of plan assets is impacted by general market conditions.  If actual returns on plan assets vary from the expected returns, actual results could differ.

 

The plan assets are managed by three financial institutions, Scotiabank Inverlat S.A., Banco Santander and IXE Banco, S.A.  29% of the funds is invested in Mexican government securities, including treasury certificates and development bonds of the Mexican government.  The remaining 71% is invested in common shares of Grupo Mexico.

 

The plan assets are invested without restriction in active markets that are accessible when required and are therefore considered as level 1, in accordance with ASC 820.

 

These plans accounted for approximately 30% of benefit obligations. The following table represents the asset mix of the investment portfolio as of December 31:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Asset category:

 

 

 

 

 

Equity securities

 

71

%

72

%

Treasury bills

 

29

%

28

%

 

 

100

%

100

%

 

The amount of contributions that the Company expects to pay to the plan during 2011 is $7.8 million, which includes $3.4 million of pending payments to former Buenavista workers.

 

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Minera Mexico Post-retirement health care plan

 

The components of net periodic benefit costs are as follows:

 

 

 

For the years ended
December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Interest cost

 

$

4.3

 

$

4.3

 

$

4.8

 

Service cost

 

0.4

 

0.4

 

0.6

 

Amortization of net loss (gain)

 

0.1

 

0.5

 

0.7

 

Amortization of transition obligation

 

1.5

 

1.5

 

1.6

 

Inflation adjustment

 

 

 

 

Net periodic post-retirement benefit costs

 

$

6.3

 

$

6.7

 

$

7.7

 

 

The change in benefit obligation and a reconciliation of funded status are as follows:

 

 

 

As of December 31

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Change in benefit obligation:

 

 

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation at beginning of year

 

$

53.0

 

$

54.0

 

Service cost

 

0.4

 

0.4

 

Interest cost

 

4.3

 

4.3

 

Actuarial (loss) gain, net

 

(11.1

)

(7.7

)

Benefits paid

 

 

 

Currency exchange rate adjustment

 

3.1

 

2.0

 

Projected benefit obligation at end of year

 

$

49.7

 

$

53.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Funded status

 

$

(49.7

)

$

(53.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASC-715 amounts recognized in statement of financial position consists of:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-current assets

 

$

 

$

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

 

(49.7

)

(53.0

)

Total

 

$

(49.7

)

$

(53.0

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

ASC-715 amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income consists of:

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss (gain)

 

$

(2.3

)

$

4.3

 

Prior service cost (credit)

 

 

 

Transition obligation (asset)

 

10.5

 

11.2

 

Total (net of income tax of $5.5 million and $9.5 million, respectively)

 

$

8.2

 

$

15.5

 

 

The following table summarizes the changes in accumulated other comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, related to the Minera Mexico’s post retirement health care plan, net of income tax:

 

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As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Reconciliation of accumulated other comprehensive income:

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at beginning of plan year

 

$

15.5

 

$

20.7

 

Amortization of net loss (gain)

 

(0.1

)

(0.3

)

Amortization of transition obligation

 

(0.9

)

(0.9

)

Net loss / (gain) occurring during the year.

 

(6.7

)

(4.8

)

Currency exchange rate changes

 

0.4

 

0.8

 

Net adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income

 

(7.3

)

(5.2

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income at end of plan year

 

$

8.2

 

$

15.5

 

 

The following table summarizes the amounts in accumulated other comprehensive income amortized and recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost, net of income tax:

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

Amortization of prior service cost (credit)

 

$

0.9

 

$

0.9

 

Amortization of net losses

 

0.1

 

0.3

 

Total amortization expenses

 

$

1.0

 

$

1.2

 

 

Discount rates used in the calculation of other post-retirement benefits and costs as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 were 7.5% and 8.0%, respectively.

 

The benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years, and thereafter, are as follows:

 

Years 

 

Expected
Benefit Payments

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

2011

 

$

3.6

 

2012

 

3.7

 

2013

 

3.9

 

2014

 

4.1

 

2015

 

4.3

 

2016 to 2020

 

29.5

 

Total

 

$

49.1

 

 

For measurement purposes, a 4.5% annual rate of increase in the per capita cost of covered health care benefits was assumed for 2010 and remains at that level thereafter.

 

An increase in other benefit cost trend rates have a significant effect on the amount of the reported obligations, as well as component cost of the other benefit plan. One percentage-point change in assumed other benefits cost trend rates would have the following effects:

 

 

 

One Percentage Point

 

(in millions)

 

Increase

 

Decrease

 

Effect on total service and interest cost components

 

$

4.0

 

$

3.3

 

Effect on the post-retirement benefit obligation

 

$

54.8

 

$

45.3

 

 

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NOTE 14-NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST:

 

For all the years presented, in the consolidated statement of earnings the income attributable to non-controlling interest is based on the earnings of the Company’s Peruvian Branch.

 

The non-controlling interest of the Company’s Peruvian Branch is for investment shares, formerly named labor shares.  These shares were generated by legislation in place in Peru from the 1970s through 1991; such legislation provided for the participation of mining workers in the profits of the enterprises for which they worked.  This participation was divided between equity and cash.  The investment shares included in the non-controlling interest on the balance sheet are the still outstanding equity distributions made to the Peruvian Branch’s employees.

 

In prior years the Company acquired some Peruvian investment shares in exchange for newly issued common shares of the Company and through purchases at market value.  These acquisitions were accounted for as purchases of non-controlling interests.  The excess paid over the carrying value was assigned to intangible assets and is being amortized based on production.  As a result of these acquisitions, the remaining investment shareholders hold a 0.71% interest in the Peruvian Branch and are entitled to a pro rata participation in the cash distributions made by the Peruvian Branch.  The shares are recorded as a non-controlling interest in the Company’s financial statements.

 

NOTE 15-COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES:

 

Environmental matters:

 

The Company has instituted extensive environmental conservation programs at its mining facilities in Peru and Mexico.  The Company’s environmental programs include, among other features, water recovery systems to conserve water and minimize impact on nearby streams, reforestation programs to stabilize the surface of the tailings dams and the implementation of scrubbing technology in the mines to reduce dust emissions.

 

Environmental capital expenditures in years 2010, 2009 and 2008, were as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Peruvian operations

 

$

3.1

 

$

2.4

 

$

0.5

 

Mexican operations

 

10.2

 

25.1

 

13.1

 

Total

 

$

13.3

 

$

27.5

 

$

13.6

 

 

Peruvian operations

 

The Company’s operations are subject to applicable Peruvian environmental laws and regulations.  The Peruvian government, through the Environmental Ministry conducts annual audits of the Company’s Peruvian mining and metallurgical operations.  Through these environmental audits, matters related to environmental commitments, compliance with legal requirements, atmospheric emissions, and effluent monitoring are reviewed.  The Company believes that it is in material compliance with applicable Peruvian environmental laws and regulations.

 

Peruvian law requires that companies in the mining industry provide for future closure and remediation.  In accordance with the requirements of this law the Company’s closure plans were approved by MINEM.  As part of the closure plans, the Company is providing guarantees to ensure that sufficient funds will be available for the asset retirement

 

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obligation.  See Note 11, “Asset retirement obligation,” for further discussion of this matter.

 

Mexican operations

 

The Company’s operations are subject to applicable Mexican federal, state and municipal environmental laws, to Mexican official standards, and to regulations for the protection of the environment, including regulations relating to water supply, water quality, air quality, noise levels and hazardous and solid waste.

 

The principal legislation applicable to the Company’s Mexican operations is the Federal General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection (the “General Law”), which is enforced by the Federal Bureau of Environmental Protection (“PROFEPA”).  PROFEPA monitors compliance with environmental legislation and enforces Mexican environmental laws, regulations and official standards.  PROFEPA may initiate administrative proceedings against companies that violate environmental laws, which in the most extreme cases may result in the temporary or permanent closing of non-complying facilities, the revocation of operating licenses and/or other sanctions or fines.  Also, according to the federal criminal code, PROFEPA must inform corresponding authorities regarding environmental non-compliance.

 

Mexican environmental regulations have become increasingly stringent in recent years, and this trend is likely to continue and has been influenced by the environmental treaty entered into by Mexico, the United States and Canada in connection with NAFTA in 1999.

 

In relation the aforementioned, on January 28, 2011, Article 180 of the General Law was amended. This amendment, gives an individual or entity the ability to contest administrative acts, including environmental authorizations, permits or concessions granted, without the need to demonstrate the actual existence of harm to the environment, natural resources, flora, fauna or human health, because it will be sufficient to argue that the harm may be caused.

 

As a result of the amendment, more legal actions supported or sponsored by non-governmental groups, interested in halting projects, and not necessarily in protecting the rights of affected communities may be filed against companies operating in all industrial sectors, including the mining sector.

 

Another initiative that has not entered into force, but is being analyzed by the Chamber of Deputies is the one related to amendments to the Civil Federal Procedures Code (CFPC). This initiative consists of establishing three categories of collective actions, by means of which 30 or more people claiming injury derived from environmental, consumer protection, financial services and economic competition issues will be considered to be sufficient in order to have a legitimate interest to seek through a civil procedure restitution or economic compensation or suspension of the activities from which the alleged injury derived. The initiative is expected to be approved by the Chamber of Deputies this year and the related provisions to enter into force six months afterward.  The amendments to the CFPC may result in more litigation with plaintiffs seeking remedies, including suspension of the activities alleged to cause harm.

 

On March 16, 2010, the Company announced to the Mexican federal environmental authorities the closure of the copper smelter plant at San Luis Potosi.  The Company has initiated a program for plant demolition and soil remediation with a budget of $35.7 million, of which the Company has spent $7.1 million as of December 31, 2010.  The Company expects to remediate the site and promote an urban development to generate a net gain in the disposal of the property.

 

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Although the Company believes that all of its facilities are in material compliance with applicable environmental, mining and other laws and regulations, the Company cannot assure that the above mentioned or future laws and regulations would not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, properties, results of operations, financial condition or prospects. However, the Company’s management does not believe that continued compliance with the federal environmental law or Mexican state environmental laws will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, properties, results of operations, financial condition or prospects or will result in material capital expenditures.

 

Litigation matters:

 

Peruvian operations

 

Garcia Ataucuri and Others against SCC’s Peruvian Branch:

 

In April 1996, the Branch was served with a complaint filed in Peru by approximately 800 former employees seeking the delivery of a substantial number of its “labor shares” (acciones laborales) plus dividends on such shares, to be issued in a proportional way to each former employee in accordance with their time of employment with SCC’s Peruvian Branch.

 

The labor share litigation is based on claims of former employees for ownership of labor shares issued during the 1970s until 1979 under a former Peruvian mandated profit sharing system.  In 1971, the Peruvian government enacted legislation providing that mining workers would have a 10% participation in the pre-tax profits of their employing enterprises.  This participation was distributed 40% in cash and 60% in an equity interest of the enterprise.  In 1978 the equity portion, which was originally delivered to the mining industry organization, was set at 5.5% of pre-tax profits and was delivered in the form of “labor shares” to individual workers.  The cash portion was set at 4.0% of pre-tax earnings and continued to be delivered to individual employees.  In 1992 the workers’ participation was set at 8%, with 100% payable in cash and the equity participation was eliminated from the law.

 

In 1995, the labor shares were exchanged for common stock of the Company and approximately 80.8% of the issued labor shares were exchanged.  After that, from time to time the Company has purchased labor shares on the open market.  The remaining net 0.71% is included in the consolidated balance sheet under the caption “Non-controlling interest.”

 

In relation to the issuance of “labor shares” by the Branch in Peru, the Branch is a defendant in the following lawsuits:

 

1)              The Garcia Ataucuri litigation seeks the delivery of 38,763,806.80 “labor shares” (acciones laborales), now “investment shares” (acciones de inversion) (or nuevos soles (“S/.”) 3,876,380,679.56), plus dividends on such shares.  After lengthy proceedings before the civil courts in Peru on September 19, 2001, on appeal from the Branch, the Peruvian Supreme Court annulled the proceedings noting that the civil courts lacked jurisdiction and that the matter had to be decided by a labor court.

 

In October 2007, in a separate proceeding initiated by the plaintiffs, the Peruvian Constitutional Court nullified the September 19, 2001 Peruvian Supreme Court decision and ordered the Supreme Court to decide again on the merits of the case accepting or denying the Branch’s 2000 appeal.

 

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In May 2009, the Supreme Court rejected the 2000 appeal of the Branch affirming the adverse decision of the appellate civil court and lower civil court.  While the Supreme Court has ordered SCC’s Peruvian Branch to deliver the labor shares and dividends, it has clearly stated that SCC’s Peruvian Branch may prove, by all legal means, its assertion that the labor shares and dividends were distributed to the former employees in accordance with the profit sharing law then in effect, an assertion which SCC’s Peruvian Branch continues to make.

 

On June 9, 2009, SCC’s Peruvian Branch filed an extraordinary appeal before a civil court in Peru seeking the nullity of the 2009 Supreme Court decision and other protective measures.  The civil court has now rendered a favorable decision suspending the enforcement of the Supreme Court decision, for the reasons indicated above and other reasons.  In view of this, and the recent civil court decision, SCC´s Peruvian Branch continues to analyze the manner in which the Supreme Court decision may be enforced and what financial impact, if any, said decision may have.

 

2)              The May 10, 2006 Cornejo Flores and others vs. SCC’s Peruvian Branch litigation, seeks the same number of labor shares as in the Garcia Ataucuri case, plus interest, labor shares resulting from capital increases made by the Branch in 1980 “for the amount of the workers’ participation of S/.17,246,009,907.20, equivalent to 172,460,099.72 labor shares,” and dividends.  On May 23, 2006, the Branch answered this new complaint denying the validity of the claim.  As of December 31, 2010, the case remained open with no new developments.

 

3)              The June 27, 2008 Alejandro Zapata Mamani and others vs. SCC’s Peruvian Branch litigation seeks the same number of labor shares as in the Garcia Ataucuri case, plus interest, labor shares resulting from capital increases and dividends.  The Branch answered this new complaint, denying the validity of the claim.  As of December 31, 2010, the case remained open with no new developments.

 

4)              The January 2009 Arenas Rodriguez and others —represented by Mr. Cornejo Flores- vs. SCC’s Peruvian Branch litigation seeks the same number of labor shares as in the Garcia Ataucuri case, plus interest, labor shares resulting from capital increases and dividends.  The Branch answered this complaint, denying the validity of the claim.  In August 2010, the Civil Court dismissed the case due to procedural defects.  The plaintiffs appealed the Civil Court’s resolution before the Superior Court.  As of December 31, 2010, resolution of this appeal was pending.

 

5)              The June 2010 Macedo Condori vs. SCC’s Peruvian Branch litigation seeks the delivery of 8,012 labor shares plus dividends in the amount of S/.496,744 (as of May 2010) and interest.  The Branch answered this new complaint, denying the validity of the claim.  In July 2010, the Civil Court dismissed the case due to procedural defects.  This case is now closed.

 

The Company asserts that the labor shares were distributed to the former employees in accordance with the profit sharing law then in effect.  The Company has not made a provision for these lawsuits because it believes that it has meritorious defenses to the claims asserted in the complaints.  Additionally, the amount of this contingency cannot be reasonably estimated by management at this time.

 

Exploraciones de Concesiones Metalicas S.A.C.:

 

In August 2009, a lawsuit was filed against SCC’s Branch by the former stockholders of Exploraciones de Concesiones Metalicas S.A.C. (“Excomet”).  The plaintiffs allege that the acquisition of Excomet’s shares by the Branch is null and void because the $2 million purchase price paid by the Branch for the shares of Excomet was not fairly negotiated by the plaintiffs and the Branch.  In 2005, the Branch acquired the shares

 

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of Excomet after lengthy negotiations with the plaintiffs, and after the plaintiffs, which were all of the stockholders of Excomet, approved the transaction in a general stockholders’ meeting.  Excomet was at the time owner of a mining concession which forms part of the Tia Maria project.  As of December 31, 2010, this case remained open with no new developments.

 

Sociedad Minera de Responsabilidad Limitada Virgen Maria de Arequipa (SMRL Virgen Maria):

 

In August 2010, a lawsuit was filed against SCC’s Branch and others by SMRL Virgen Maria, a company which until July 2003 owned the mining concession Virgen Maria, which forms part of the Tia Maria project.  SMRL Virgen Maria sold this mining concession in July 2003 to Excomet (see above noted case).

 

The plaintiff alleges that the sale of the mining concession Virgen Maria to Excomet is null and void because the persons who attended the shareholders’ meeting of SMRL Virgen Maria, at which the purchase was agreed upon, were not the real owners of the shares.  The plaintiff is also pursuing the nullity of all the subsequent acts regarding the mining property (acquisition of the shares of Excomet by SCC’s Branch, noted above, and the sale of the concession to SCC’s Branch by Excomet).

 

The Company asserts that the lawsuits are without merit and is vigorously defending against these lawsuits.

 

Mexican Operations

 

Pasta de Conchos Accident:

 

On February 19, 2010, three widows of miners, who perished in the 2006 Pasta de Conchos accident, filed a complaint for damages in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona against the defendants, Grupo Mexico, AMC and SCC.  The plaintiffs allege that the defendants’ purported failure to maintain a safe working environment at the mine amounted to a violation of several laws and treaties.  The Company considers that the court does not have subject-matter jurisdiction over the plaintiffs’ claims and will defend itself vigorously.  On April 13, 2010, the Company filed a motion to dismiss the plaintiffs’ complaint.  At December 31, 2010, resolution of this case remained pending.

 

Labor matters:

 

In recent years the Company has experienced a number of strikes or other labor disruptions that have had an adverse impact on its operations and operating results.

 

Peruvian Operations

 

Approximately 62% of the Company’s Peruvian labor force was unionized at December 31, 2010 and was represented by eight separate unions.  Three of these unions, one at each major production area, represent the majority of the Company’s workers.   In September 2010, the Company reached a new three-year collective bargaining agreement with these three unions.  This agreement includes, among other things, a 5% annual salary increase and a signing bonus of approximately $6,700 for each of the workers (approximately 2,000).  In addition, this agreement provides for a productivity bonus program for the departments that reach certain parameters.  Also, there are five smaller unions, representing the balance of workers.  Collective bargaining agreements for these smaller unions are in force through November 2012.

 

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During 2010 and 2009 no strikes occurred.  In 2008, strikes in support of a mining federation strike occurred at the Company’s operating areas, during which operations were close to normal.

 

Mexican operations

 

Approximately 73% of the Mexican labor force was unionized at December 31, 2010 and was represented by two separate unions.  Under Mexican law, the terms of employment for unionized workers is set forth in collective bargaining agreements.  Mexican companies negotiate the salary provisions of collective bargaining agreements with the labor unions annually and negotiate other benefits every two years.  The Company conducts negotiations separately at each mining complex and each processing plant.

 

In the last years the Buenavista mine experienced several labor stoppages.  The latest labor stoppage started in July 2007 and finished in June 2010.  In 2008, the Board of Directors offered all Buenavista employees a severance payment in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement and applicable law.  During 2008, under this plan a group of employees was terminated at a cost to the Company of $15.2 million.  Also in 2010, at the termination of the strike, the Company made termination payments of $11.9 million.  Both payments were recorded in cost of sales on the consolidated statement of earnings.  At the end of 2010 the Company maintains a provision of $3.4 million of pending payments to a group of approximately 830 workers who have rejected acceptance of the termination payment.  On June 6, 2010, the Company started the evaluation of the damages to the plant, machinery and equipment caused by the strike.  The Company began the rehabilitation and reconstruction of the Buenavista mine during the second half of 2010.  At December 31, 2010, the Company had spent $70.9 million and expects to spend $43.1 million in 2011.  Losses arising from damages to the fixed assets, net of estimated insurance recoveries, are not material.

 

Additionally, the San Martin and Taxco mines have been on strike since July 2007.  On December 10, 2009, a federal tribunal confirmed the legality of the San Martin strike.  In the case of the Taxco mine, following the workers refusal to allow exploration of new reserves, the Company commenced litigation seeking to terminate the labor relationship with workers of the Taxco mine (including the related collective bargaining agreement).  On September 1, 2010, the federal labor court issued a ruling approving the termination of the collective bargaining agreement and all the individual labor contracts of the workers affiliated with the Mexican mining union at the Taxco mine.  The ruling was based upon the resistance of the mining union to allow the Company to search for reserves at the Taxco mine.  If sustained, this ruling will also have the effect of terminating the protracted strike at the Taxco unit.  The mining union has presented an appeal of the labor court ruling before federal tribunals.  As of December 31, 2010 resolution of this appeal was pending.

 

In 2009, more than 40% of the workers of the San Martin mine and 50% of the workers of the Taxco mine voluntarily requested severance payments and terminated their labor relationship with the Company.

 

In the third quarter of 2010 operations at the La Caridad metallurgical complex were disrupted due to access road blockages established by a group of terminated workers and other agitators.  However, in October 2010, with the assistance of the Mexican authorities, order was restored and normal operations were restarted.  La Caridad’s mining operations continued during the blockage period and as a result the Company was able to maintain output.

 

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Other legal matters:

 

Class actions:

 

Three purported class action derivative lawsuits were filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery (New Castle County) late in December 2004 and early January 2005 relating to the proposed merger transaction between the Company and Minera Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (the “Transaction”).  On January 31, 2005, the three actions - Lemon Bay, LLP v. American Mining-Corporation, et al., Civil Action No. 961-N, Therault Trust v. Luis Palomino Bonilla, et al., and Southern Peru Copper Corporation et al., Civil Action No. 969-N, and James Sousa v. Southern Peru Copper Corporation, et al., Civil Action No. 978-N — were consolidated into one action captioned.  In re Southern Peru Copper Corporation Shareholder Derivative Litigation, Consol. Civil Action No. 961 -N; the complaint filed by Lemon Bay was designated as the operative complaint in the consolidated lawsuit.  The consolidated action purports to be brought on behalf of the Company and its common stockholders; the defendants in the consolidated action are AMC, German Larrea Mota-Velasco, Genaro Larrea Mota-Velasco, Oscar Gonzalez Rocha, Emilio Carrillo Gamboa, Jaime Fernando Collazo Gonzalez, Xavier Garcia de Quevedo Topete, Armando Ortega Gomez and Juan Rebolledo Gout (together, the “AMC Defendants”), Carlos Ruiz Sacristan, Harold S. Handelsman, Gilberto Perezalonso Cifuentes, and Luis Miguel Palomino Bonilla (together, the “Special Committee Defendants”).  The consolidated complaint alleges, among other things, that the Transaction was the result of breaches of fiduciary duties by the Company’s directors and was not entirely fair to the Company and its minority stockholders.  Fact discovery closed in early 2010 and expert discovery closed on June 18, 2010.  On June 30, 2010, the plaintiff moved for partial summary judgment.  On August 10, 2010, the AMC Defendants and the Special Committee Defendants filed separate cross-motions for summary judgment.  On December 21, 2010, the Court denied the plaintiff’s and the AMC Defendants’ motions for summary judgment and granted the Special Committee Defendants’ motion for summary judgment, dismissing the Special Committee Defendants from the action.  As of the date of this filing, the case is expected to go to trial in June 2011.

 

The complaint seeks, among other things, a preliminary and permanent injunction to enjoin the Transaction, the award of damages to the plaintiff and the class, and such other relief that the court deems equitable, including interest, attorneys’ and experts’ fees and costs.  The defendants believe that the lawsuit is without merit and are vigorously defending against the action.

 

Four purported class action derivative lawsuits have been filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery (Oklahoma Firefighters Pension & Retirement System et al. v. SCC et al., Gary Martin et al. v. SCC et al., Thomas Griffin et al. v. SCC et al., and Sheet Metal Workers Pension Plan of Northern California et al. v. SCC et al.) from August to October 2010 relating to the proposed combination of the Company with AMC, the parent company of Asarco.  The complaints name SCC, its current and certain former directors, AMC and Grupo Mexico as defendants.  Two of the actions also name Asarco as a defendant.  The actions purport to be brought on behalf of the Company’s common stockholders.  A previously reported complaint filed in the Superior Court of Arizona, in and for the County of Maricopa, City of North Miami Beach Police Officers’ and Firefighters’ Retirement Plan et al. v. SCC et al., has been voluntarily dismissed.

 

The complaints allege, among other things, that the proposed transaction would result in breaches of fiduciary duties by the defendants and is not entirely fair to the Company and its minority stockholders.  The complaints seek, among other things, a preliminary and permanent injunction to enjoin the transaction, the award of damages to the plaintiffs and the class, and such other relief that the court deems equitable, including interest, attorneys’ and experts’ fees and costs.  On January 25, 2011, the Oklahoma Firefighters and Sheet Metal Workers plaintiffs filed an amended and joint

 

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motion to consolidate and have Firefighters’ counsel appointed lead counsel.  Plaintiffs also moved to stay the Martin and Griffin actions.  The Sheet Metal plaintiffs have withdrawn their prior motion to consolidate in connection with the new motion.

 

Firefighters’ plaintiffs have also moved for leave to file an amended complaint to add or supplement factual allegations concerning the summary judgment ruling in the Lemon Bay action described above.  Resolution of the motion is still pending.

 

The defendants believe that these lawsuits are without merit and are vigorously defending against the actions.

 

The Company is involved in various other legal proceedings incidental to its operations, but the Company does not believe that decisions adverse to it in any such proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, would have a material adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations.  Additionally, the Company does not believe that the outcome of the purported class action derivative lawsuits would have a material adverse effect on its financial position or results of operations.  While the defendants, including Grupo Mexico and its affiliates, believe that the claims in the purported class action derivative lawsuits are without merit, the Company cannot assure you that these or future claims, if successful, will not have an adverse effect on Grupo Mexico, AMC or the Company.

 

Other commitments:

 

Regional development contribution:

 

In 2006, the Company’s Peruvian Branch signed a contract with the Peruvian government committing the Company to make annual contributions for five years to support the regional development of Peru based on prior year’s net earnings.  This was in response to an appeal by the president of Peru to the mining industry.  The contributions are being used for social benefit programs.  This contribution expired in 2010 with the last payment to be deposited in April 2011.

 

These contributions were deposited with a separate entity, Asociacion Civil Ayuda del Cobre, which will make disbursements for approved investments in accordance with the agreement until the five year contributions are fully used.  The commitment of the Branch was for a total of 1.25% of its annual earnings, after Peruvian income tax.

 

The following table summarized the non-deductable contributions made by the Company and the 2010 provision based on Peruvian earnings (in millions):

 

Years of payment

 

Based on

 

Total Year

 

2007

 

2006

 

$

16.1

 

2008

 

2007

 

18.9

 

2009

 

2008

 

12.7

 

2010

 

2009

 

9.2

 

2011

 

2010

 

14.8

 

 

These provisions are included in “Other income (expense)” in the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

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Royalty charge

 

In 2004, the Peruvian Congress enacted legislation imposing a royalty charge to be paid by mining companies. Under this law, the Company is subject to a 1% to 3% royalty based on sales and calculated on the value of the concentrates produced at the Toquepala and Cuajone mines. The Company made provisions for this charge in 2010, 2009 and 2008, as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Royalty charge

 

$

65.5

 

$

43.7

 

$

53.9

 

 

These provisions are included in “Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)” in the consolidated statement of earnings.

 

Power purchase agreement

 

In 1997, SCC sold its Ilo power plant to an independent power company, Enersur.  In connection with the sale, a power purchase agreement was also completed under which SCC agreed to purchase all of its power needs for its Peruvian operations from Enersur for twenty years, commencing in 1997.  In 2003, the agreement was amended, releasing Enersur from its obligation to construct additional capacity to meet the Company’s increased electricity requirements and changing the power tariff as called for in the original agreement.

 

The Company has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (“MOU”) with Enersur regarding its power supply agreement.  The MOU contains new economic terms that the Company believes better reflect current economic conditions in the power industry and in Peru.  The Company expects to obtain savings in its future power costs.  The new economic conditions agreed to in the MOU have been applied by Enersur to its invoices to the Company since May 2009.  Additionally, the MOU includes an option for providing power for the Tia Maria project.  During 2010, the Company continued its negotiations with Enersur in order to obtain a final agreement for the Tia Maria project.

 

Tax contingency matters:

 

Tax contingencies are provided for under ASC 740-10-50-15 Uncertain tax position (see Note 9, “Income taxes”).

 

NOTE 16-STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

Common Stock:

 

In 2009, Grupo Mexico, through its wholly owned subsidiary AMC, purchased 4.9 million shares of SCC’s common stock.  With this purchase and the Company’s repurchase of shares of its common stock, the indirect ownership of Grupo Mexico increased to 80% at March 31, 2009, and remains at 80% at December 31, 2010.

 

Appropriated Retained Earnings:

 

As of December 31, 2010, Company management set aside $1.8 billion of unremitted earnings of its Mexican subsidiary, Minera Mexico, as appropriated retained earnings.  It is the Company’s intention to indefinitely invest these funds in Mexico.  These amounts are earmarked for the Company’s Mexican expansion program.  See also Note 9 “Income taxes” of these financial statements.

 

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Treasury Stock:

 

Activity in treasury stock in the years 2010 and 2009, was as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Southern Copper common shares

 

 

 

 

 

Balance as of January 1,

 

$

460.7

 

$

389.0

 

Purchase of shares

 

0.5

 

71.9

 

Used for corporate purposes

 

(0.2

)

(0.2

)

Balance as of December 31,

 

461.0

 

460.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Parent Company (Grupo Mexico) common shares

 

 

 

 

 

Balance as of January 1,

 

142.7

 

125.5

 

Sales of shares

 

 

 

Purchase of shares

 

 

 

Other activity, including dividend, interest and currency translation effect

 

19.0

 

17.2

 

Balance as of December 31,

 

161.7

 

142.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Treasury stock balance as of December 31,

 

$

622.7

 

$

603.4

 

 

SCC shares of common stock in treasury:

 

At December 31, 2010 and 2009, treasury stock holds 34,596,086 shares of SCC’s common stock with a cost of $461.0 million and $460.7 million, respectively.  The shares of SCC’s common stock held in treasury are used for general corporate purposes.

 

SCC share repurchase program:

 

Pursuant to the $500 million share repurchase program authorized by the Company’s Board of Directors in 2008 the Company purchased common stock as shown in the table below.  These shares will be available for general corporate purposes.  The Company may purchase additional shares of its common stock from time to time, based on market conditions and other factors.  This repurchase program has no expiration date and may be modified or discontinued at any time.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Maximum Number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

Total Number of

 

of Shares that

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Price

 

Shares Purchased

 

May Yet Be

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total Number

 

Paid

 

as Part of

 

Purchased Under

 

Total Cost

 

Period

 

of Shares

 

per

 

Publicly

 

the Plan

 

($ in

 

From

 

To

 

Purchased

 

Share

 

Announced Plan

 

@ $48.74

 

millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2008:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

08/11/08

 

12/31/08

 

28,510,150

 

$

13.49

 

28,510,150

 

 

 

$

384.7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2009:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

01/12/09

 

09/30/09

 

4,912,000

 

14.64

 

33,422,150

 

 

 

71.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

05/05/10

 

05/05/10

 

13,200

 

28.75

 

33,435,350

 

 

 

0.4

 

08/12/10

 

08/12/10

 

1,200

 

29.33

 

33,436,550

 

 

 

(*

)

10/14/10

 

10/14/10

 

1,200

 

40.34

 

33,437,750

 

 

 

(*

)

 

 

 

 

15,600

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total purchased

 

 

 

33,437,750

 

$

13.67

 

 

 

881,777

 

$

457.0

 

 

As a result of the repurchase of shares of SCC’s common stock and AMC’s purchase of shares of SCC’s common stock, Grupo Mexico’s direct and indirect ownership increased to 80% at March 31, 2009, and remains at 80% as of December 31, 2010.

 

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Directors’ Stock Award Plan:

 

The Company established a stock award compensation plan for certain directors who are not compensated as employees of the Company.  Under this plan, participants will receive 1,200 shares of common stock upon election and 1,200 additional shares following each annual meeting of stockholders thereafter. 600,000 shares of Southern Copper common stock have been reserved for this plan.  As of December 31, 2010 and 2009, the Company has granted 256,800 shares and 241,200 shares, respectively, under this plan.  The fair value of the award is measured each year at the date of the grant.

 

Employee Stock Purchase Plan:

 

In January 2007, the Company offered to eligible employees a stock purchase plan (the “Employee Stock Purchase Plan”) through a trust that acquires shares of Grupo Mexico stock for sale to its employees, employees of subsidiaries, and certain affiliated companies.  The purchase price is established at the approximate fair market value on the grant date.  Every two years employees will be able to acquire title to 50% of the shares paid in the previous two years.  The employees will pay for shares purchased through monthly payroll deductions over the eight year period of the plan.  At the end of the eight year period, the Company will grant the participant a bonus of 1 share for every 10 shares purchased by the employee.

 

If Grupo Mexico pays dividends on shares during the eight year period, the participants will be entitled to receive the dividend in cash for all shares that have been fully purchased and paid as of the date that the dividend is paid.  If the participant has only partially paid for shares, the entitled dividends will be used to reduce the remaining liability owed for purchased shares.

 

In the case of voluntary resignation of the employee, the Company will pay to the employee the fair market sales price at the date of resignation of the fully paid shares, net of costs and taxes.  When the fair market sales value of the shares is higher than the purchase price, the Company will apply a deduction over the amount to be paid to the employee based on the following schedule:

 

If the resignation occurs during:

 

% Deducted

 

1st year after the grant date

 

90

%

2nd year after the grant date

 

80

%

3rd year after the grant date

 

70

%

4th year after the grant date

 

60

%

5th year after the grant date

 

50

%

6th year after the grant date

 

40

%

7th year after the grant date

 

20

%

 

In the case of involuntary termination of the employee, the Company will pay to the employee the fair market sales price at the date of termination of employment of the fully paid shares, net of costs and taxes.  When the fair market value of the shares is higher than the purchase price, the Company will apply a deduction over the amount to be paid to the employee based on the following schedule:

 

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If the termination occurs during:

 

% Deducted

 

1st year after the grant date

 

100

%

2nd year after the grant date

 

95

%

3rd year after the grant date

 

90

%

4th year after the grant date

 

80

%

5th year after the grant date

 

70

%

6th year after the grant date

 

60

%

7th year after the grant date

 

50

%

 

In case of retirement or death of the employee, the Company will render the buyer or his legal beneficiary, the fair market sales value as of the date of retirement or death of the shares effectively paid, net of costs and taxes.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, the stock based compensation expense under the Employee Stock Purchase Plan was $2.2 million and $2.1 million, respectively.  As of December 31, 2010, there was $8.5 million of unrecognized compensation expense under this plan, which is expected to be recognized over the remaining four years period.

 

The following table presents the stock award activity of the Employee Stock Purchase Plan for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009:

 

 

 

Shares

 

Unit Weighted
Average
Grant Date Fair
Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding shares at January 1, 2009

 

14,577,011

 

$

1.16

 

Granted

 

 

 

 

Exercised

 

(2,700,588

)

1.16

 

Forfeited

 

(319,798

)

1.16

 

Outstanding shares at December 31, 2009

 

11,556,625

 

$

1.16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding shares at January 1, 2010

 

11,556,625

 

$

1.16

 

Granted

 

 

 

Exercised

 

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

(635,932

)

1.16

 

Outstanding shares at December 31, 2010

 

10,920,693

 

$

1.16

 

 

During 2010, the Company offered to eligible employees a new stock purchase plan (the “New Employee Stock Purchase Plan”) through a trust that acquires series B shares of Grupo Mexico stock for sale to its employees, employees of subsidiaries, and certain affiliated companies.

 

The purchase price was established at 26.51 Mexican pesos (approximately $2.05) for the initial subscription.  The terms of the New Employee Stock Purchase Plan are similar to the terms of the Employee Stock Purchase Plan.

 

At December 31, 2010, there was $4.3 million of unrecognized compensation expense under this plan, which is expected to be recognized over the eight years period.

 

The following table presents the stock award activity of the New Employee Stock Purchase Plan for the year ended December 31, 2010:

 

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Shares

 

Unit Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding shares at January 1, 2010

 

 

 

Granted

 

3,901,901

 

$

2.05

 

Exercised

 

 

 

Forfeited

 

 

 

Outstanding shares at December 31, 2010

 

3,901,901

 

$

2.05

 

 

Executive Stock Purchase Plan:

 

Grupo Mexico also offers a stock purchase plan for certain members of its executive management and the executive management of its subsidiaries and certain affiliated companies.  Under this plan, participants will receive incentive cash bonuses which are used to purchase shares of Grupo Mexico which are deposited in a trust.

 

NOTE 17-DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS:

 

As part of its risk management policy, the Company occasionally uses derivative instruments to (i) safeguard the corporate assets; (ii) insure the value of its future revenue stream, and (iii) lessen the impact of unforeseen market swings of its sales revenues.  To comply with these objectives the Company, from time to time, enters into commodities prices derivatives, interest rate derivative, exchange rate derivative and other instruments.  The Company does not enter into derivative contracts unless it anticipates a future activity that is likely to occur that will result in exposing the Company to market risk.

 

Copper swaps:

 

In 2010 and 2008, the Company entered into copper swaps and zero cost collar derivative contracts to reduce price volatility and to protect its sales value as

 

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shown below.  In 2010, these transactions meet the requirements of hedge accounting but not in 2008.  The realized gains and losses from these derivatives were recorded in net sales on the consolidated statement of earnings and included in operating activities on the consolidated statement of cash flows.  The Company did not hold any copper derivatives in 2009.  The following table summarized the copper derivative activity related to copper sales transactions realized in 2010 and 2008:

 

 

 

2010

 

2008

 

Zero cost collar contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

Pounds (in millions)

 

 

220.5

 

Average LME cap price

 

 

$

4.23

 

Average LME floor price

 

 

$

3.40

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swap contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

Pounds (in millions)

 

276.7

 

175.1

 

Weighted average COMEX price

 

$

3.79

 

$

3.87

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Realized (loss) gain on copper derivatives

 

$

(41.9

)

$

137.0

 

 

In addition, the Company has a hedge program to protect the sales value of a portion of its copper production for years 2011 and 2012.  The hedge instruments are based on LME copper prices.  The Company performed statistical analysis on the difference between the average monthly copper price on the LME and the COMEX exchanges and determined that the correlation coefficient is greater than 0.999.  Based on this analysis the Company considers that the LME underlying price matches its sales priced at COMEX prices.  These cash flow hedge relationships qualify as critical matched terms hedge relationships and as a result have no ineffectiveness.  The Company performs periodic quantitative assessments to confirm that the relationship was highly effective and that the ineffectiveness was the de minimus.

 

At the end of 2010 the Company held copper derivative contracts to protect a portion of its copper sales for 2011 and the first quarter 2012, as follows:

 

 

 

2011

 

1st Quarter
2012

 

Zero cost collar contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

Pounds (in millions)

 

423.3

 

16.5

 

Average LME cap price

 

$

4.84

 

$

4.81

 

Average LME floor price

 

$

3.02

 

$

3.50

 

Estimated % of copper sales covered

 

30

%

5

%

Unrealized loss recognized in other comprehensive income, net of income taxes of $25.7 million and $0.6 million (in millions)

 

$

45.2

 

$

1.1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swap contracts:

 

 

 

 

 

Pounds (in millions)

 

291.0

 

 

Weighted average COMEX price

 

$

3.88

 

 

Estimated % of copper sales covered

 

21

%

 

 

Unrealized loss recognized in other comprehensive income net of income taxes of $45.1 million (in millions)

 

$

79.3

 

 

 

Additionally, in January and early February 2011, the Company entered into copper swaps contracts to protect 165.9 million pounds of copper for 2011 at an average price of $4.42 per pound and into zero cost collar contracts to protect 29.8 million pounds of copper for the

 

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first quarter of 2012 at an average floor price of $3.50 per pound of copper and an average cap price of $5.38 per pound of copper.  With the addition of these contracts the Company increased the percentage of its 2011 and first quarter 2012 copper sales coverage to 61% and 13%, respectively.

 

Transactions under these metal price protection programs are accounted for as cash flow hedges under ASC 815-15 “Derivatives and Hedging-embedded derivatives” (formerly SFAS No. 133 “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities”) as they meet the requirements for this treatment and are adjusted to fair market value based on the metal prices as of the last day of the respective reporting period with the gain or loss recorded in other comprehensive income until settlement, at which time the gain or loss is reclassified to net sales in the consolidated statements of earnings.

 

The Company expects to reclassify into earnings during the next 12 months the unrealized loss included in accumulated other comprehensive loss of approximately $124.5 million (net of income taxes) at the time the underlying hedged transactions are realized.  However, changes in copper prices in the next 12 months could increase or decrease the amount of the loss to be reclassified into earnings.

 

Please see additional disclosure about fair value on Note 18-”Financial instruments” below.

 

Gas swaps:

 

In the last three years Company entered into gas swap contracts to protect part of its gas consumptions as follows:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gas volume (MMBTUs)

 

 

306,000

 

460,000

 

Fixed price

 

 

$

3.6350

 

$

8.2175

 

Loss(in millions)

 

 

$

 

$

(0.9

)

 

The losses obtained were charged to production cost.  As of December 31, 2010, the Company did not hold any open gas swap contracts.

 

Exchange rate derivatives, U.S. dollar/Mexican peso contracts:

 

Because more than 85% of the Company’s sales collections in Mexico are in U.S. dollars and many of its costs are in Mexican pesos, the Company entered into zero-cost derivative contracts with the purpose of protecting, within a range, against an appreciation of the Mexican peso to the U.S. dollar.

 

Related to the exchange rate derivative contracts the Company recorded gain (losses) as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Gain (loss)

 

 

$

4.2

 

$

(74.6

)

 

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These gains and losses were recorded as gain (loss) on derivative instruments in the consolidated statements of earnings.  At December 31, 2010, the Company did not hold any exchange rate derivative contract.

 

NOTE 18-FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS:

 

ASC-820-10-35 establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value.  The hierarchy gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements).  The three levels of the fair value hierarchy under SFAS No. 157 are described below:

 

Level 1 - Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities;

 

Level 2 - Inputs that are observable, either directly or indirectly, but do not qualify as Level 1 inputs. (i.e., quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities)

 

Level 3 - Prices or valuation techniques that require inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable (i.e., supported by little or no market activity).

 

The carrying amounts of certain financial instruments, including cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable (other than accounts receivable associated with provisionally priced sales) and accounts payable approximate fair value due to their short maturities.  Consequently, such financial instruments are not included in the following table that provides information about the carrying amounts and estimated fair values of other financial instruments that are not measured at fair value in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2010 (in millions):

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2010

 

 

 

Carrying Value

 

Fair Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt (*)

 

$

2,786.4

 

$

2,982.7

 

 


(*) Long term debt is carried at amortized cost and its carrying value as of December 31, 2010, was $2,760.4 million.  The $2,982.7 million represents the estimated fair value of the debt.

 

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Fair values of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis were calculated as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, as follows (in millions):

 

 

 

Fair Value at Measurement Date Using:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quoted prices

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair

 

in active

 

Significant

 

 

 

 

 

Value as

 

markets for

 

other

 

Significant

 

 

 

of

 

identical

 

observable

 

unobservable

 

 

 

December

 

assets

 

inputs

 

inputs

 

Description

 

31, 2010

 

(Level 1)

 

(Level 2)

 

(Level 3)

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short term investment:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Trading securities

 

$

66.9

 

$

66.9

 

 

 

 

 

- Available for sale debt securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign bonds

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate bonds

 

0.4

 

 

 

$

0.4

 

 

Asset backed obligations

 

0.3

 

 

 

0.3

 

 

Mortgage backed securities

 

8.6

 

 

 

7.4

 

$

1.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Derivatives - Not classified as hedges:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provisionally priced sales:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

4.8

 

4.8

 

 

 

 

 

Molybdenum

 

7.3

 

7.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liability derivatives - Classified as cash flow hedges:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Swap

 

(124.4

)

 

 

(124.4

)

 

 

Zero cost collar

 

(72.6

)

 

(72.6

)

 

 

Total

 

$

(108.7

)

$

79.0

 

$

(188.9

)

$

1.2

 

 

 

 

Fair Value at Measurement Date Using:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quoted prices

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair

 

in active

 

Significant

 

 

 

 

 

Value as

 

markets for

 

other

 

Significant

 

 

 

of

 

identical

 

observable

 

unobservable

 

 

 

December

 

assets

 

inputs

 

inputs

 

Description

 

31, 2009

 

(Level 1)

 

(Level 2)

 

(Level 3)

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short term investment:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Trading securities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Available for sale debt securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign bonds

 

$

2.0

 

 

 

$

2.0

 

 

Corporate bonds

 

4.8

 

 

 

3.1

 

$

1.7

 

Asset backed obligations

 

6.6

 

 

 

6.6

 

 

 

Mortgage backed securities

 

9.5

 

 

 

8.1

 

1.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

- Derivatives - Not classified as hedges:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Provisionally priced sales:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

4.1

 

4.1

 

 

 

 

 

Molybdenum

 

(16.2

)

(16.2

)

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

10.8

 

$

(12.1

)

$

19.8

 

$

3.1

 

 

The Company’s short-term trading securities investments are classified as Level 1 because they are valued using quoted prices of the same securities.

 

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The Company’s short-term available for sale investments are classified as Level 2 because they are valued using quoted prices for similar investments.  The Company classifies investments within Level 3 of the valuation hierarchy in certain cases where there is limited activity or less observable inputs to the valuation.  Investments classified within Level 3 include corporate bonds, asset backed obligations, and mortgage-backed securities.

 

Derivatives are valued using financial models that use as their basis readily observable market inputs, such as time value, forward interest rates, volatility factors, and current and forward market prices for foreign exchange rates and a set of probabilities.  The Company classifies these instruments within Level 2 of the valuation hierarchy.  Such derivatives can include foreign currency, copper and zinc derivatives.

 

The fair value of the plan assets is valued using quoted market prices; such value is classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

Fair value for long-term debt is based on quoted market prices classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.  The Mitsui loan is based on the present value of the cash flow discounted at 11.3%, which is the Company’s weighted average cost of capital. This fair value is classified as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.

 

The Company’s accounts receivables associated with provisionally priced sales of copper are valued using quoted market prices based on the forward price on the London Metal Exchange (LME) or on the Commodities Exchange (COMEX) in New York.  Such value is classified within Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.  Molybdenum prices are established by reference to the publication Platt’s Metals Week and are considered Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy.

 

The table below sets forth a summary of changes in the fair value of the Company’s Level 3 short-term investments (corporate bond, asset backed obligations, and mortgage backed securities), as well as cash flow hedges for the years ended on December 31, 2010 and 2009 (in millions).

 

 

 

12 months ended December 31, 2010

 

 

 

Available for sale debt securities:

 

 

 

Corporate
bonds

 

Mortgage
backed
securities

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance as of January 1, Unrealized gain (loss)

 

$

1.7

 

$

1.4

 

$

3.1

 

Purchases, sales, issuance and settlements (net)

 

(1.3

)

 

(1.3

)

Transfers in/out of Level 3

 

(0.4

)

(0.2

)

(0.6

)

Balance as of December 31,

 

$

 

$

1.2

 

$

1.2

 

 

 

 

12 months ended December 31, 2009

 

 

 

Available for sale debt securities:

 

 

 

Corporate
bonds

 

Asset backed
obligations

 

Mortgage
backed
securities

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance as of January 1,

 

$

6.9

 

$

0.8

 

$

3.3

 

$

11.0

 

Unrealized gain (loss)

 

(0.6

)

(0.3

)

0.5

 

(0.4

)

Purchases, sales, issuance and settlements (net)

 

(3.6

)

(0.5

)

(0.5

)

(4.6

)

Transfers in/out of Level 3

 

(1.0

)

 

(1.9

)

(2.9

)

Balance as of December 31,

 

$

1.7

 

$

 

$

1.4

 

$

3.1

 

 

 

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The total amount of unrealized gain (loss) for the period was included in other income (expense) in the consolidated statement of earnings for December 31, 2010.

 

NOTE 19-CONCENTRATION OF RISK:

 

The Company operates four open-pit copper mines, five underground poly metal mines, two smelters and eight refineries in Peru and Mexico and substantially all of its assets are located in these countries.  There can be no assurances that the Company’s operations and assets that are subject to the jurisdiction of the governments of Peru and Mexico will not be adversely affected by future actions of such governments.  Much of the Company’s products are exported from Peru and Mexico to customers principally in United States, Europe, Asia and South America.

 

Financial instruments, which potentially subject the Company to a concentration of credit risk, consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and trade accounts receivable.

 

The Company invests or maintains available cash with various banks, principally in the United States, Mexico, Europe and Peru, or in commercial papers of highly-rated companies.  As part of its cash management process, the Company regularly monitors the relative credit standing of these institutions.  At December 31, 2010, SCC had invested its cash equivalents as follows:

 

Country

 

% of total
cash (1)

 

% invested in one
institution

 

United States

 

87.2

%

30.2

%

Peru

 

8.3

%

87.8

%

Mexico

 

4.5

%

83.2

%

 


(1)          98.2% of the Company’s cash is in US dollars.

 

During the normal course of business, the Company provides credit to its customers.  Although the receivables resulting from these transactions are not collateralized, the Company has not experienced significant problems with the collection of receivables.

 

The Company is exposed to credit loss in cases where the financial institutions with which it has entered into derivative transactions (commodity, foreign exchange and currency/interest rate swaps) are unable to pay when they owe funds as a result of protection agreements with them.  To minimize the risk of such losses, the Company only uses highly-rated financial institutions that meet certain requirements.  The Company also periodically reviews the creditworthiness of these institutions to ensure that they are maintaining their ratings.  The Company does not anticipate that any of the financial institutions will default on their obligations.

 

The Company’s largest customers as percentage of accounts receivable and total sales were as follows:

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Accounts receivable trade as of December 31,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Five largest customers

 

49.1

%

37.4

%

61.7

%

Largest customer

 

16.3

%

11.2

%

21.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total sales in year

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Five largest customers

 

29.6

%

35.1

%

35.8

%

Largest customer

 

9.9

%

8.5

%

10.6

%

 

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Table of Contents

 

NOTE 20-RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

 

Balances receivable and payable with related parties companies are shown below (in millions):

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Accounts receivable:

 

 

 

 

 

Grupo Mexico, S.A.B de C.V. and affiliates

 

$

32.7

 

$

1.5

 

Ferrocarril Mexicano, S.A. de C.V.

 

 

1.4

 

Breaker, S.A. de C.V

 

 

0.1

 

Mexico Proyectos y Desarrollos, S.A. de C.V. and affiliates

 

 

1.6

 

 

 

$

32.7

 

$

4.6

 

Accounts payable:

 

 

 

 

 

Grupo Mexico S.A. de C.V. and affiliates

 

$

2.3

 

$

 

Higher Technology S.A.C.

 

0.1

 

0.4

 

Breaker, S.A. de C.V

 

0.3

 

 

Pigoba, S.A. de C.V

 

0.1

 

 

Consorcio Tricobre

 

0.5

 

 

Mexico transportes aereos

 

0.4

 

 

Mexico Proyectos y Desarrollos, S.A. de C.V. and affiliates

 

0.9

 

 

Ferrocarril Mexicano S.A. de C.V.

 

0.1

 

 

 

 

$

4.7

 

$

0.4

 

 

The Company has entered into certain transactions in the ordinary course of business with parties that are controlling shareholders or their affiliates.  These transactions include the lease of office space, air transportation and construction services and products and services relating to mining and refining.  The Company lends and borrows funds among affiliates for acquisitions and other corporate purposes.  These financial transactions bear interest and are subject to review and approval by senior management, as are all related party transactions.  It is the Company’s policy that the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors shall review all related party transactions.  The Company is prohibited from entering or continuing a material related party transaction that has not been reviewed and approved or ratified by the Audit Committee.

 

Purchase activity:

 

The following table summarizes the purchase activity with related parties in 2010, 2009 and 2008 (in millions):

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

Grupo Mexico and affiliates:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grupo Mexico Servicios, S.A de C.V

 

$

10.9

 

$

13.8

 

$

13.8

 

Ferrocarril Mexicano, S.A de C.V.

 

3.5

 

6.0

 

11.0

 

Mexico Proyectos y Desarrollos, S.A. de C.V. and affiliates

 

29.0

 

15.1

 

22.0

 

Perforadora Mexico S.A. de C.V.

 

0.2

 

 

 

Consorcio Tricobre

 

5.3

 

 

 

Asarco

 

6.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Larrea family companies:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mexico Compania de Productos Automotrices, S.A. de C.V.

 

2.3

 

0.3

 

1.8

 

Mexico Transportes Aereos, S.A. de C.V.

 

3.0

 

1.9

 

2.9

 

Cadena Mexicana de Exhibicion S.A. de C.V.

 

0.2

 

0.3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Companies with relationships to SCC executive officers families:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Higher Technology S.A.C.

 

2.8

 

5.4

 

4.0

 

Servicios y Fabricaciones Mecanicas S.A.C.

 

0.2

 

0.3

 

0.8

 

Sempertrans France Belting Technology

 

0.4

 

0.6

 

0.7

 

PIGOBA, S.A. de C.V.

 

0.6

 

0.1

 

0.5

 

Breaker, S.A. de C.V.

 

1.5

 

0.9

 

2.2

 

Total purchased

 

$

66.5

 

$

44.7

 

$

59.7

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

Grupo Mexico, the Company’s ultimate parent and the majority indirect stockholder of the Company, and its affiliates provide various services to the Company.  These services are primarily related to accounting, legal, tax, financial, treasury, human resources, price risk assessment and hedging, purchasing, procurement and logistics, sales and administrative and other support services.  The Company pays Grupo Mexico for these services.  The Company expects to continue to pay for these services in the future.

 

In addition, during 2010 the Company made donations of $0.8 million to Fundacion Grupo Mexico, an organization dedicated to promoting social and economic development of the communities close to the Company’s Mexican operations.

 

The Company’s Mexican operations paid fees for freight services provided by Ferrocarril Mexicano, S.A de C.V., for construction services provided by Mexico Proyectos y Desarrollos, S.A. de C.V. and affiliates and for drilling services provided by Perforadora Mexico S.A. de C.V.; the three companies are subsidiaries of Grupo Mexico.  Also in 2010, the Company purchased copper rod from Asarco, another subsidiary of Grupo Mexico.

 

The Company’s Peruvian operations paid fees for engineering and consulting services provided by Consorcio Tricobre, a Peruvian company in which Servicios de Ingenieria Consultec, S.A. de C. V., an indirect subsidiary of Grupo Mexico, has 42.7% participation.

 

The Larrea family controls a majority of the capital stock of Grupo Mexico, and has extensive interests in other businesses, including oil drilling services, construction, aviation, and real estate.  The Company engages in certain transactions in the ordinary course of business with other entities controlled by the Larrea family relating to mining and refining services, the lease of office space, sale of vehicles and air transportation and construction services.  In connection with this, the Company paid fees for maintenance services and sale of vehicles provided by Mexico Compania de Productos Automotrices, S.A. de C.V., a company controlled by the Larrea family.

 

Additionally, in 2007, the Company’s Mexican subsidiaries provided guaranties for two loans obtained by Mexico Transportes Aereos, S.A. de C.V. (“MexTransport”), a company controlled by the Larrea family, from Bank of Nova Scotia in Mexico.  One of the loans, originally for $2.3 million, was repaid in August 2010.  The remaining loan requires semi-annual repayments.  Conditions and balance as of December 31, 2010 are as follows:

 

 

 

Loan Open

 

Original loan balance (in millions)

 

$

8.5

 

Maturity

 

August 2013

 

Interest rate

 

Libor + 0.15

%

Remaining balance at December 31, 2010 (in millions)

 

$

3.9

 

 

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MexTransport provides aviation services to the Company’s Mexican operations.  The guaranty provided to MexTransport is backed up by the transport services provided by MexTransport to the Company’s Mexican subsidiaries.  If MexTransport defaults on the loan, SCC’s subsidiaries would have to satisfy the guaranty and repay to the bank the remaining balances, plus interest.  The Company pays fees to MexTransport for aviation services.

 

The Company purchased publicity services from Cadena Mexicana de Exhibicion S.A. de C.V. a subsidiary of Grupo Cinemex, a company controlled by the Larrea family.

 

The Company purchased industrial materials from Higher Technology S.A.C., a company in which Mr. Carlos Gonzalez has a proprietary interest.  Also the Company paid fees for maintenance services provided by Servicios y Fabricaciones Mecanicas S.A.C., a company in which Mr. Carlos Gonzalez has a proprietary interest.  Mr. Carlos Gonzalez is the son of SCC’s Chief Executive Officer.

 

The Company purchased industrial material from Sempertrans France Belting Technology, in which Mr. Alejandro Gonzalez is employed as a sales representative.  Also, the Company purchased industrial material from PIGOBA, S.A. de C.V., a company in which Mr. Alejandro Gonzalez has a proprietary interest.  Mr. Alejandro Gonzalez is the son of SCC’s Chief Executive Officer.

 

The Company purchased industrial material and services from Breaker, S.A. de C.V., a company in which Mr. Jorge Gonzalez, son-in-law of SCC’s Chief Executive Officer, has a proprietary interest.

 

Sales activity:

 

In the second quarter of 2010 the Company recovered from Asarco, a subsidiary of Grupo Mexico, $7.7 million related to a previously written-off net accounts receivable position.  This recovery was recorded in the consolidated statement of earnings as follows: $5.0 million in cost of sales, $1.6 million in other income and $1.1 million as interest income.  Also, during 2010 the Company sold copper anodes, sulfuric acid, silver and gold to Asarco.

 

In addition, in 2010, the Company received fees from building rental and maintenance services provided to Mexico Constructora Industrial S.A. de C.V., a subsidiary of Mexico Proyectos y Desarrollos, S.A. de C.V. and to Perforadora Mexico S.A. de C.V., respectively, both subsidiaries of Grupo Mexico.

 

The following table summarizes the sales activity with related parties in 2010. There were no sales activities in 2009 and 2008 (in millions):

 

Asarco

 

$

43.5

 

Mexico Proyectos y Desarrollos, S.A. de C.V. and affiliates

 

0.5

 

Perforadora Mexico S.A. de C.V.

 

0.2

 

Total

 

$

44.2

 

 

It is anticipated that in the future the Company will enter into similar transactions with these same parties.

 

NOTE 21-SEGMENT AND RELATED INFORMATION:

 

Company management views Southern Copper as having three reportable segments and manages it on the basis of these segments.  Each of its segments report independently

 

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Table of Contents

 

to the Chief Operating Officer and he focuses on operating income as a measure of performance to evaluate different segments, and to make decisions to allocate resources to the reported segments.

 

The three segments identified are groups of mines, each of which constitute an operating segment, with similar economic characteristics, type of products, processes and support facilities, similar regulatory environments, similar employee bargaining contracts and similar currency risks.  In addition, each mine within the individual group earns revenues from similar type of customers for their products and services and each group incurs expenses independently, including commercial transactions between groups.

 

Intersegment sales are based on arms-length prices at the time of sale.  These may not be reflective of actual prices realized by the Company due to various factors, including additional processing, timing of sales to outside customers and transportation cost.  Added to the segment information is information regarding the Company’s sales.  The segments identified by the Company are:

 

1.               Peruvian operations, which include the Toquepala and Cuajone mine complexes and the smelting and refining plants, industrial railroad and port facilities which service both mines.  The Peruvian operations produce copper, with production of by-products of molybdenum, silver and other material.

 

2.               Mexican open-pit operations, which include La Caridad and Buenavista mine complexes and the smelting and refining plants and support facilities which service both mines.  The Mexican open-pit operations produce copper, with production of by-products of molybdenum, silver and other material.

 

3.               Mexican underground mining operations, which include five underground mines that produce zinc, copper, silver and gold, a coal mine which produces coal and coke, and a zinc refinery.  This group is identified as the IMMSA unit.

 

The Peruvian operations include two open-pit copper mines whose mineral output is transported by rail to Ilo, Peru where it is processed at the Company’s Ilo smelter and refinery, without distinguishing between the products of the two mines.  The resulting product, anodes and refined copper, are then shipped to customers throughout the world.  These shipments are recorded as revenue of the Company’s Peruvian mines.

 

The Mexican open-pit segment includes two copper mines whose mineral output is processed in the same smelter and refinery without distinguishing between the products of the two mines.  The resultant product, anodes and refined copper, are then shipped to customers throughout the world.  These shipments are recorded as revenues of the Company’s Mexican open-pit mines.

 

The Company has determined that it is necessary to classify the Peruvian open-pit operations as a separate operating segment from the Mexican open-pit operations due to the very distinct regulatory and political environments in which they operate.  The Company’s Chief Operating Officer must consider the operations in each country separately when analyzing results of the Company and making key decisions.  The open-pit mines in Peru must comply with stricter environmental rules and must continually deal with a political climate that has a very distinct vision of the mining industry as compared to Mexico.  In addition, the collective bargaining agreement contracts are negotiated differently in each of the countries.  These key differences result in the Company taking varying decisions with regards to open-pit operations in the two countries.

 

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Table of Contents

 

The IMMSA segment includes five mines whose minerals are processed in the same refinery.  This segment also includes an underground coal mine.  Sales of product from this segment are recorded as revenues of the Company’s IMMSA unit.  While the Mexican underground mines are subject to a very similar regulatory environment of the Mexican open-pit mines, the nature of the products and processes of two Mexican operations vary distinctly.  These differences cause the Company’s Chief Operating Officer to take a very different approach when analyzing results and making decisions regarding the two Mexican operations.

 

Financial information is regularly prepared for each of the three segments and the results of the Company’s operations are regularly reported to the Chief Operating Officer on the segment basis.  The Chief Operating Officer of the Company focuses on operating income and on total assets as measures of performance to evaluate different segments and to make decisions to allocate resources to the reported segments.  These are common measures in the mining industry.

 

Financial information relating to Company’s segments is as follows:

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2010

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

 

 

Mexican
Open-pit

 

Mexican
IMMSA
Unit

 

Peruvian
Operations

 

Corporate
and other
eliminations

 

Total
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales outside of segments

 

$

1,618.7

 

$

366.7

 

$

3,125.9

 

$

38.2

 

$

5,149.5

 

Intersegment sales

 

29.8

 

146.0

 

 

(175.8

)

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)

 

710.1

 

307.4

 

1,218.2

 

(136.3

)

2,099.4

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

31.3

 

13.4

 

40.3

 

3.3

 

88.3

 

Depreciation, amortization and depletion

 

163.7

 

22.7

 

134.0

 

2.9

 

323.3

 

Exploration

 

5.2

 

15.5

 

13.6

 

 

34.3

 

Operating income

 

$

738.2

 

$

153.7

 

$

1,719.8

 

$

(7.5

)

2,604.2

 

Less:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(152.7

)

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(20.7

)

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(868.1

)

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,562.7

 

Income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(8.7

)

Income attributable to SCC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

1,554.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

$

109.8

 

$

29.8

 

$

260.3

 

$

8.8

 

$

408.7

 

Property, net

 

$

1,583.5

 

$

296.3

 

$

2,164.7

 

$

50.5

 

$

4,095.0

 

Total assets

 

$

2,510.4

 

$

747.7

 

$

3,430.9

 

$

1,439.0

 

$

8,128.0

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2009

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

 

 

Mexican
Open-pit

 

Mexican
IMMSA
Unit

 

Peruvian
Operations

 

Corporate
and other
eliminations

 

Total
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales outside of segments

 

$

1,037.0

 

$

420.2

 

$

2,223.5

 

$

53.6

 

$

3,734.3

 

Intersegment sales

 

39.7

 

140.0

 

 

(179.7

)

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)

 

545.6

 

378.7

 

1,026.7

 

(127.3

)

1,823.7

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

28.4

 

12.3

 

37.4

 

0.2

 

78.3

 

Depreciation, amortization and depletion

 

169.6

 

24.4

 

127.5

 

1.1

 

322.6

 

Exploration

 

2.1

 

7.9

 

14.6

 

 

24.6

 

Operating income

 

$

331.0

 

$

136.9

 

$

1,017.3

 

$

(0.1

)

1,485.1

 

Less:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(90.9

)

Gain on derivative instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.2

 

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.1

 

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(469.9

)

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

934.6

 

Income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(5.2

)

Income attributable to SCC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

929.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

$

79.4

 

$

27.8

 

$

284.4

 

$

23.2

 

$

414.8

 

Property, net

 

$

1,615.8

 

$

278.4

 

$

2,026.3

 

$

49.1

 

$

3,969.6

 

Total assets

 

$

2,346.5

 

$

664.6

 

$

2,896.9

 

$

150.2

 

$

6,058.2

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2008

 

 

 

(in millions)

 

 

 

Mexican
Open-pit

 

Mexican
IMMSA
Unit

 

Peruvian
Operations

 

Corporate
and other
eliminations

 

Total
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales outside of segments

 

$

1,477.5

 

$

430.1

 

$

2,803.2

 

$

140.0

 

$

4,850.8

 

Intersegment sales

 

106.1

 

95.0

 

 

(201.1

)

 

Cost of sales (exclusive of depreciation, amortization and depletion)

 

728.2

 

448.0

 

1,100.4

 

(94.4

)

2,182.2

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

37.9

 

21.5

 

38.9

 

4.1

 

102.4

 

Depreciation, amortization and depletion

 

178.2

 

32.4

 

113.3

 

3.4

 

327.3

 

Exploration

 

5.2

 

11.4

 

20.4

 

 

37.0

 

Operating income

 

$

634.1

 

$

11.8

 

$

1,530.2

 

$

25.8

 

2,201.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest, net

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(50.7

)

Loss on derivative instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(74.6

)

Other income (expense)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

17.2

 

Income taxes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(679.3

)

Net income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1,414.5

 

Income attributable to the non-controlling interest

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(7.9

)

Income attributable to SCC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

1,406.6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capital expenditures

 

$

145.0

 

$

44.2

 

$

302.4

 

$

32.8

 

$

524.4

 

Property, net

 

$

1,644.5

 

$

271.1

 

$

1,845.7

 

$

49.2

 

$

3,810.5

 

Total assets

 

$

2,704.1

 

$

612.8

 

$

2,105.4

 

$

342.0

 

$

5,764.3

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

Sales value per segment:

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2010

 

(in millions)

 

Mexican
Open-pit

 

Mexican
IMMSA Unit

 

Peruvian
Operations

 

Corporate, Other
& Eliminations

 

Total
Consolidated

 

Copper

 

$

1,088.7

 

$

68.9

 

$

2,649.7

 

$

(61.5

)

$

3,745.8

 

Molybdenum

 

361.3

 

 

322.1

 

 

683.4

 

Silver

 

142.5

 

140.4

 

86.6

 

(61.8

)

307.7

 

Zinc

 

 

211.7

 

 

0.8

 

212.5

 

Other

 

56.1

 

92.0

 

67.4

 

(15.4

)

200.1

 

Total

 

$

1,648.6

 

$

513.0

 

$

3,125.8

 

$

(137.9

)

$

5,149.5

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2009

 

(in millions)

 

Mexican
Open-pit

 

Mexican
IMMSA Unit

 

Peruvian
Operations

 

Corporate, Other
& Eliminations

 

Total
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

$

698.0

 

$

78.1

 

$

1,888.7

 

$

(25.9

)

$

2,638.9

 

Molybdenum

 

234.5

 

 

202.2

 

 

436.7

 

Silver

 

96.6

 

194.7

 

59.6

 

(75.5

)

275.4

 

Zinc

 

 

175.5

 

 

1.1

 

176.6

 

Other

 

47.6

 

111.9

 

73.0

 

(25.8

)

206.7

 

Total

 

$

1,076.7

 

$

560.2

 

$

2,223.5

 

$

(126.1

)

$

3,734.3

 

 

 

 

Year Ended December 31, 2008

 

(in millions)

 

Mexican
Open-pit

 

Mexican
IMMSA Unit

 

Peruvian
Operations

 

Corporate, Other
& Eliminations

 

Total
Consolidated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Copper

 

$

1,066.7

 

$

79.7

 

$

2,220.6

 

$

(12.1

)

$

3,354.9

 

Molybdenum

 

347.6

 

 

450.6

 

 

798.2

 

Silver

 

64.0

 

120.9

 

53.3

 

(30.7

)

207.5

 

Zinc

 

 

194.6

 

 

1.7

 

196.3

 

Other

 

105.3

 

129.9

 

78.7

 

(20.0

)

293.9

 

Total

 

$

1,583.6

 

$

525.1

 

$

2,803.2

 

$

(61.1

)

$

4,850.8

 

 

NET SALES AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION:

 

Net sales to respective countries were as follows:

 

 

 

Years Ended December 31,

 

(in millions)

 

2010

 

2009

 

2008

 

United States

 

$

1,281.4

 

$

1,025.4

 

$

1,288.6

 

Europe

 

1,066.6

 

887.0

 

1,108.0

 

Mexico

 

872.4

 

858.2

 

1,088.2

 

Peru

 

315.8

 

112.6

 

129.8

 

Latin America, excluding Mexico and Peru

 

1,116.9

 

536.8

 

861.2

 

Asia

 

538.5

 

314.3

 

238.0

 

Derivative instruments

 

(42.1

)

 

137.0

 

Total

 

$

5,149.5

 

$

3,734.3

 

$

4,850.8

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

PROVISIONAL SALES PRICE:

 

At December 31, 2010, the Company has recorded provisionally priced sales of copper at average forward prices per pound, and molybdenum at the year-end market price per pound.  These sales are subject to final pricing based on the average monthly LME and COMEX copper prices and Dealer Oxide molybdenum prices in the future month of settlement.

 

Following are the provisionally priced copper and molybdenum sales outstanding at December 31, 2010:

 

Pounds of copper

 

Priced at

 

Month of settlement

 

(millions)

 

 

 

 

 

13.8

 

4.38

 

January 2011

 

 

Pounds of molybdenum

 

Market price

 

Month of settlement

 

(millions)

 

 

 

 

 

3.8

 

16.40

 

January 2011

 

2.5

 

16.40

 

February 2011

 

2.6

 

16.40

 

March 2011

 

0.2

 

16.40

 

April 2011

 

9.1

 

16.40

 

Total

 

 

Provisional sales price adjustments included in accounts receivable and net sales were as follows at December, 31 (in millions):

 

 

 

As of December 31,

 

 

 

2010

 

2009

 

Copper

 

$

4.8

 

$

4.1

 

Molybdenum

 

7.3

 

(16.2

)

Total

 

$

12.1

 

$

(12.1

)

 

Management believes that the final pricing of these sales will not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

LONG-TERM SALES CONTRACTS:

 

The following are the significant outstanding long-term contracts:

 

Under the terms of a sales contract with Mitsui & Co. Ltd. (“Mitsui”), the Company is required to supply Mitsui with 48,000 tons of copper cathodes annually through 2013.  If the shipment destination is Asia, the pricing of the cathodes is based upon the LME monthly average settlement price.  However, if the destination of shipments is the United States, the pricing of the cathodes is based upon the COMEX monthly average settlement price.  In either case a producer premium will be included which is agreed upon annually based on world market terms.  90,000 tons related to a prior contract (period 1994-2000) will be supplied as follows: 48,000 in 2014 and 42,000 in 2015.

 

Under the terms of a sales contract with Molibdenos y Metales, S.A., SPCC Peru Branch is required to supply 20,500 tons of molybdenum concentrates from 2011 through 2013.  This contract may be extended for one more calendar year during each December to maintain a three year period unless either party decides to terminate the agreement.  The sale price of the molybdenum concentrates is based on the monthly average of the

 

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Table of Contents

 

high and low Metals Week Dealer Oxide quotation.  The roasting charge deduction is agreed based on international market terms.

 

Under the terms of a sales contract with Molimex, S.A. de C.V., Minera Mexico is required to supply at least the 85% of its molybdenum concentrates production from 2010 through 2011.  This contract may be extended for one or more calendar year during each December unless either party decides to end the agreement.  The sale price of the molybdenum concentrate is based on the monthly average of the high and low Metals Week Dealer Oxide quotation.  The roasting charge deduction is negotiated based on international market terms.

 

NOTE 22-QUARTERLY DATA (unaudited)

(in millions, except per share data)

 

 

 

2010

 

 

 

1st

 

2nd

 

3rd

 

4th

 

Year

 

Net sales

 

$

1,219.4

 

$

1,173.2

 

$

1,257.9

 

$

1,499.0

 

$

5,149.5

 

Gross profit

 

$

720.2

 

$

650.9

 

$

715.4

 

$

963.6

 

$

3,050.1

 

Operating income

 

$

608.8

 

$

540.4

 

$

602.9

 

$

852.1

 

$

2,604.2

 

Net income

 

$

385.2

 

$

315.3

 

$

367.2

 

$

495.0

 

$

1,562.7

 

Net income attributable to SCC

 

$

383.2

 

$

313.4

 

$

365.2

 

$

492.2

 

$

1,554.0

 

Per share amounts attributable to SCC:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net earnings basic and diluted

 

$

0.45

 

$

0.37

 

$

0.43

 

$

0.58

 

$

1.83

 

Dividend per share

 

$

0.43

 

$

0.45

 

$

0.37

 

$

0.43

 

$

1.68

 

 

 

 

2009

 

 

 

1st

 

2nd

 

3rd

 

4th

 

Year

 

Net sales

 

$

622.0

 

$

824.5

 

$

1,151.8

 

$

1,136.0

 

$

3,734.3

 

Gross profit

 

$

246.5

 

$

405.0

 

$

621.9

 

$

637.2

 

$

1,910.6

 

Operating income

 

$

144.1

 

$

303.2

 

$

508.7

 

$

529.1

 

$

1,485.1

 

Net income

 

$

79.2

 

$

176.0

 

$

314.2

 

$

365.1

 

$

934.5

 

Net income attributable to SCC

 

$

78.7

 

$

175.0

 

$

312.4

 

$

363.3

 

$

929.4

 

Per share amounts attributable to SCC:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net earnings basic and diluted

 

$

0.09

 

$

0.21

 

$

0.37

 

$

0.43

 

$

1.09

 

Dividend per share

 

$

0.12

 

$

0.04

 

$

0.10

 

$

0.18

 

$

0.44

 

 

NOTE 23—SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

DIVIDENDS:

 

On January 27, 2011, the Board of Directors authorized a dividend of 58 cents per share to be paid on March 1, 2011, to shareholders of record as of February 15, 2011.

 

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Table of Contents

 

OTHER COMPANY INFORMATION:

 

ANNUAL MEETING

 

The annual stockholders meeting of Southern Copper Corporation will be held on Thursday, April 28, 2011, at 9:00 am, Mexico City time, at Edificio Parque Reforma, Campos Eliseos No. 400, 9th Floor, Colonia Lomas de Chapultepec, Mexico City, Mexico.

 

TRANSFER AGENT, REGISTRAR AND STOCKHOLDERS SERVICES

 

The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (BONY)

Shareowner Services

480 Washington Boulevard

Jersey City, NJ 07310-1900-0286

Phone: (800)524-4458

 

DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PROGRAM

 

SCC stockholders can have their dividends automatically reinvested in SCC common shares.  SCC pays all administrative and brokerage fees.  This plan is administered by The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation.  For more information, contact The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation at (800)524-4458.

 

STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING

 

The principal markets for SCC’s common stock are the NYSE and the Lima Stock Exchange.  Effective February 17, 2010, SCC’s common stock changed its symbol from PCU to SCCO on both the NYSE and the Lima Stock Exchange.

 

OTHER SECURITIES

 

The Branch in Peru has issued, in accordance with Peruvian Law, “investment shares” (formerly named labor shares) that are quoted on the Lima Stock Exchange under symbols SPCCPI1 and SPCCPI2.  Transfer Agent, registrar and stockholders services are provided by Banco de Credito del Peru, Avenida Centenario 156, La Molina, Lima 12, Peru.

Telephone (51-1) 313-2478, Fax (51-1)313-2556.

 

OTHER CORPORATE INFORMATION

 

For other information on the Company or to obtain, free of charge, additional copies of the Annual Report on Form 10-K, contact the Investor Relations Department at:

11811 North Tatum Blvd. Suite 2500, Phoenix, Az. 85028, USA

Telephone: (602)494-5328

 

SOUTHERN COPPER CORPORATION

 

11811 North Tatum Blvd. Suite 2500, Phoenix, Az. 85028, USA

Telephone: (602)494-5328, Fax: (602)494-5317

NYSE Symbol: SCCO (PCU prior to February 17, 2010)

 

Avenida Caminos del Inca 171, Chacarilla del Estanque, Santiago de Surco, Lima 33 — Peru.

Telephone: (51-1)512-0440, Ext. 3354

Lima Stock Exchange Symbol: SCCO (PCU prior to February 17, 2010)

 

Edificio Parque Reforma, Campos Eliseos No. 400, 12th Floor, Col. Lomas de Chapultepec, Mexico City, Mexico

Telephone: (52-55) 1103-5320

 

Website:  www.southerncoppercorp.com

Email address:  southerncopper@southernperu.com.pe

 

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Table of Contents

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Southern Copper Corporation:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Southern Copper Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of earnings, comprehensive income, equity, and cash flows for the years then ended.  Our audit also included the 2010 and 2009 financial statement schedules listed in the Index at Item 15.  These financial statements and financial statement schedules are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedules based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. 

 

In our opinion, such 2010 and 2009 consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Southern Copper Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  Also, in our opinion, such 2010 and 2009 financial statement schedules, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on the criteria established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 25, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Galaz, Yamazaki, Ruiz Urquiza S.C.

Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited

 

C.P.C. Arturo Vargas Arellano

Mexico City, Mexico

February 25, 2011

 

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Table of Contents

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Southern Copper Corporation:

 

In our opinion, the consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income, shareholders’ equity and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2008 present fairly, in all material respects, the results of operations and cash flows of Southern Copper Corporation and its subsidiaries for the year ended December 31, 2008, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule for the year ended December 31, 2008 presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements.  These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audit.  We conducted our audit of these statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

PricewaterhouseCoopers S.C.

Mexico D.F.

March 2, 2009 (except for reclassification in connection with adoption of Accounting Standards Codification 810 Consolidation, which is dated February 26, 2010).

 

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Table of Contents

 

ITEM 9.                     CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANT ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

 

None

 

ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

As of December 31, 2010, the Company conducted an evaluation under the supervision and with the participation of the Company’s Disclosure Committee and the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness and the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures.  Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer have concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of December 31, 2010, to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed or submitted under the Exchange Act is:

 

1.               recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and

 

2.               accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

 

CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

There was no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) that occurred during the quarter ended December 31, 2010 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal controls over financial reporting.

 

MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

Management is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the Company.  Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including the Company’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer, the Company conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting based on the framework in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organization of the Treadway Commission.  Based on the evaluation made under this framework, management concluded that as of December 31, 2010 such internal control over financial reporting is effective.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting, may not prevent or detect misstatements.  Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness for future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

Our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, has been audited by Galaz, Yamazaki, Ruiz Urquiza, S.C., an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report which is provided below.

 

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Table of Contents

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING

 

To the Board of Directors and Stockholders of Southern Copper Corporation:

 

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Southern Copper Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.  The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying “Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting” appearing in Item 9A.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects.  Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances.  We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the Company’s Board of Directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis.  Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on the criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedules as of and for the year ended December 31, 2010 of the Company and our report dated February 25, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial statement schedules.

 

Galaz, Yamazaki, Ruiz Urquiza S.C.

Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited

 

C.P.C. Arturo Vargas Arellano

Mexico City, Mexico

February 25, 2011

 

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ITEM 9B.       OTHER INFORMATION

 

None.

 

PART III

 

ITEM 10,11,12, 13 AND 14

 

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

 

Set forth below are the executive officers of the Company, their ages as of January 31, 2011 and their positions.

 

Name

 

Age

 

Position

German Larrea Mota Velasco

 

57

 

Chairman of the Board and Director

Oscar Gonzalez Rocha

 

72

 

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Xavier Garcia de Quevedo Topete

 

64

 

Chief Operating Officer and Director of SCC, President and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Copper Minera Mexico

Genaro Guerrero Diaz Mercado

 

51

 

Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer

Jose N. Chirinos Fano

 

69

 

Comptroller

Jose de los Heros Ugarte

 

50

 

Vice President, Commercial

Vidal Muhech Dip

 

70

 

Vice President, Projects

Remigio Martinez Muller

 

67

 

Vice President, Explorations

 

German Larrea Mota-Velasco has served as our Chairman of the Board since December 1999, Chief Executive Officer from December 1999 to October 2004 and as a member of the Board of Directors since November 1999.  He has been Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Chief Executive Officer of Grupo Mexico (holding) since 1994.  Mr. Larrea has been Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Grupo Ferroviario Mexicano S.A. de C.V (railroad company) since 1997.  Mr. Larrea was previously Executive Vice Chairman of Grupo Mexico and has been a member of the Board of Directors since 1981.  He is also Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of Empresarios Industriales de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (holding), Compania Perforadora Mexico, S.A. de C.V., (drilling company), Mexico Compania Constructora, S.A. de C.V. (construction company) and Fondo Inmobiliario (real estate company), since 1992.  He founded Grupo Impresa, a printing and publishing company in 1978, remaining as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer until 1989 when the company was sold.  He is also a director of Banco Nacional de Mexico, S.A. (Citigroup), which forms part of Grupo Financiero Banamex, S.A. de C.V., Consejo Mexicano de Hombres de Negocios, and Grupo Televisa, S.A.B.

 

Oscar Gonzalez Rocha has served as our President since December 1999 and our Chief Executive Officer since October 21, 2004.  He has been our Director since November 1999.  Previously, he was our President and General Director and Chief Operating Officer from December 1999 to October 20, 2004.  He has been a Director of Grupo Mexico since 2002.  He has been a director and the Chief Executive Officer of Asarco since August 2010.  Previously he was General Director of Mexicana de Cobre, S.A. de C.V. from 1986 to 1999 and of Buenavista del Cobre S.A. de C.V. (formerly named Mexicana de Cananea S.A. de C.V.) from 1990 to 1999.  He was an Alternate Director of Grupo Mexico from 1988 to April 2002.

 

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Xavier Garcia de Quevedo Topete has served as President of Minera Mexico since September 2001 and President and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Copper Minera Mexico and our Chief Operating Officer since April 12, 2005.  He also served as a member of our Board of Directors since November 1999.  He has been the President and Chief Executive Officer of AMC since September 7, 2007.  Mr. Garcia de Quevedo initiated his professional career in 1969 with Grupo Mexico.  He was President of Grupo Ferroviario Mexicano S.A. de C.V., and of Ferrocarril Mexicano, S.A. de C.V. from December 1997 to December 1999, and General Director of Exploration and Development of Grupo Mexico from 1994 to 1997.  He has been a director of Grupo Mexico since April 2002.  He was also Vice President of Grupo Condumex for eight years.  Mr. Garcia de Quevedo was the Chairman of the Mining Chamber of Mexico from November, 2006 to August, 2009.

 

Genaro Guerrero Diaz-Mercado has served as our Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer since January 2, 2008.  He has held various Treasury functions with Grupo Mexico from 1992 to July 31, 2000.  On August 1, 2000, Mr. Guerrero was transferred to Asarco, an affiliate Company of Grupo Mexico.  He was the Vice President Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Asarco until May 3, 2006.  Mr. Guerrero held a key financial role with Southern Peru Limited, a subsidiary of the Company until December 31, 2007.

 

Jose N. Chirinos Fano has served as our Comptroller since April 2005 and as our Treasurer from April 2004 to April 2005.  Mr. Chirinos also served as our interim Chief Financial Officer from June to December 2007.  He has been General Director of Comptroller and Finance since December 1999.  From January 1994 until April 2005 he was our Assistant Comptroller.  Since January 2004, Mr. Chirinos has been Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer of Southern Peru Limited, one of our subsidiaries.  He has held various positions in Accounting, Administration and Finance during his 44 years at our Company.

 

Jose de los Heros Ugarte has served as Vice President, Commercial since November 21, 2008.  Mr. de los Heros has held several positions with the Company since 1983 including the position of Commercial Director of SPCC Peru Branch from 1999 to 2008.  Mr. de los Heros directs the Company’s commercial operations worldwide from the offices in Peru, Mexico and the United States.

 

Vidal Muhech Dip has served as our Vice President, Projects since April 25, 2002.  He has been Corporate Director of Engineering and Construction of Grupo Mexico since April 1995.  Previously, he was Director of Engineering and Construction of Industrial Minera Mexico S.A. de C.V. from 1985 to 1995.

 

Remigio Martinez Muller has served as our Vice President, Exploration since April 2002.  He has been Corporate Director of Exploration of Grupo Mexico since 2002.  From 1990 to 2001 he was Director of Exploration of Mexicana de Cobre, S.A. de C.V.  Mr. Martinez has held several other managerial positions within Grupo Mexico and its predecessor, Asarco Mexicana.

 

Information in response to the additional disclosure requirements specified by Part III, Items 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 will be included in a definitive proxy statement, which will be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A of the 1934 Securities Exchange Act, as amended, prior to April 28, 2011, or will be provided by amendment to this Form 10-K, also to be filed no later than April 28, 2011.

 

The information contained in such definitive proxy statement is incorporated herein by reference, excluding the information under the caption “Compensation Committee Report,” which shall not be deemed filed.

 

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PART IV.

 

ITEM 15.        EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, SCHEDULES.

 

The following documents are filed as part of this report:

 

1.                               Financial Statements

 

The following financial statements of Southern Copper Corporation and its subsidiaries are included at the indicated pages of the document as stated below:

 

 

Form 10-K

 

Pages

Consolidated statement of earnings for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

116

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

117

Consolidated balance sheet at December 31, 2010 and 2009

118

Consolidated statement of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

119

Consolidated statement of changes in equity for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

120

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

121

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

179

 

2.   Exhibits:

 

3.1

(a)

Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, filed on October 11, 2005.

 

(b)

Certificate of Amendment of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated May 2, 2006.

 

(c)

Certificate of Amendment of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated May 28, 2008.

 

 

 

3.2

By-Laws (as last amended on January 27, 2011).

 

 

4.1

Indenture governing $200,000,000 6.375% Notes due 2015, by and among Southern Copper Corporation, The Bank of New York and The Bank of New York (Luxembourg) S.A.

 

 

 

4.2

(a)

Indenture governing $600,000,000 7.500% Notes due 2035, by and among Southern Copper Corporation, The Bank of New York and The Bank of New York (Luxembourg) S.A.

 

(b)

Indenture governing $400,000,000 7.500% Notes due 2035, by and among Southern Copper Corporation, The Bank of New York, and The Bank of New York (Luxembourg) S.A.

 

 

 

4.3

Form of 6.375% Note (included in Exhibit 4.1).

 

 

4.4

Form of New 7.500% Note (included in Exhibit 4.2(a)).

 

 

4.5

Form of New 7.500% Note (included in Exhibit 4.2(b)).

 

 

4.6

Indenture, dated as of April 16, 2010, between Southern Copper Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, pursuant to which $400 million of 5.375% Notes due 2020 and $1.1

 

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billion of 6.750% Notes due 2040 were issued.

 

 

4.7

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 16, 2010, between Southern Copper Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, pursuant to which the 5.375% Notes due 2020 were issued.

 

 

4.8

Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 16, 2010, between Southern Copper Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, pursuant to which the 6.750% Notes due 2020 were issued.

 

 

4.9

Form of 5.375% Notes due 2020.

 

 

4.10

Form of 6.750% Notes due 2040.

 

 

10.1

Tax Stability Agreement, dated August 8, 1994, between the Government of Peru and the Company regarding the SXEW facility (and English translation).

 

 

10.2

Form of Directors’ Stock Award Plan of the Company.

 

 

10.3

Service Agreement entered into by the Company with a subsidiary of Grupo Mexico S.A.B. de C.V., assigned upon the same terms and conditions to Grupo Mexico S.A.B. de C.V. in February 2004.

 

 

10.4

Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 21, 2004, by and among Southern Copper Corporation, SCC Merger Sub, Inc., Americas Sales Company, Inc., Americas Mining Corporation and Minera Mexico S.A. de C.V.

 

 

12.1

Computation of financial ratios.

 

 

14.0

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics adopted by the Board of Directors on May 8, 2003 and amended by the Board of Directors on October 21, 2004.

 

 

21.1

Subsidiaries of the Company.

 

 

23.1

Consent of Registered Public Accounting Firm (Galaz, Yamazaki, Ruiz Urquiza, S.C., Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited)

 

 

23.2

Consent of Registered Public Accounting Firm (PricewaterhouseCoopers S.C.)

 

 

31.1

Certification required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

31.2

Certification required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

32.1

Certification required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This document is being furnished in accordance with SEC Release No. 33-8328.

 

 

32.2

Certification required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This document is being furnished in accordance with SEC Release No. 33-8328.

 

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Table of Contents

 

101.INS

XBRL Instance Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

101.SCH

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

101.CAL

XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

101.DEF

XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

101.LAB

XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

101.PRE

XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

 

The exhibit listed as 10.2 is the management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement required to be filed pursuant to Item 15(b) of Form 10-K.

 

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Table of Contents

 

3.  Schedule II

 

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves(in millions):

 

 

 

Additions

 

 

 

Balance at
beginning
of period

 

Charged to
costs and
expenses

 

Other

 

Deduction

 

Balance at
end of
period

 

Reserve deducted in balance sheet to which applicable:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts Receivable:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

4.6

 

 

 

4.6

 

 

2009

 

4.8

 

 

 

 

0.2

 

4.6

 

2008

 

4.6

 

0.4

 

 

 

0.2

 

4.8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes issued under par:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

16.1

 

 

 

10.3

 

0.5

 

25.9

 

2009

 

16.4

 

 

 

0.3

 

16.1

 

2008

 

16.7

 

 

 

0.3

 

16.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred Tax Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2010

 

30.5

 

 

 

 

 

0.5

 

30.0

 

2009

 

28.6

 

2.2

 

 

0.3

 

30.5

 

2008

 

34.1

 

 

 

5.5

 

28.6

 

 

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Signatures

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this Report on Form 10-K to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

SOUTHERN COPPER CORPORATION

 

(Registrant)

 

 

 

 

 

 

By:

/s/ Oscar Gonzalez Rocha

 

 

Oscar Gonzalez Rocha

 

President and Chief Executive Officer

Date:  February 25, 2010

 

 

Pursuant to requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report on Form 10-K has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

 

/s/ German Larrea Mota-Velasco

 

Chairman of the Board, and Director

German Larrea Mota-Velasco

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Oscar Gonzalez Rocha

 

President, Chief Executive Officer and Director

Oscar Gonzalez Rocha

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Genaro Guerrero

 

Vice President, Finance, Chief Financial Officer (principal

Genaro Guerrero

 

Financial Officer)

 

 

 

/s/ Jose N. Chirinos Fano

 

Comptroller (principal Accounting Officer)

Jose N. Chirinos Fano

 

 

 

DIRECTORS

 

/s/ German Larrea Mota-Velasco

 

/s/ Oscar Gonzalez Rocha

German Larrea Mota-Velasco

 

Oscar Gonzalez Rocha

 

 

 

/s/ Emilio Carrillo Gamboa

 

/s/ Genaro Larrea Mota-Velasco

Emilio Carrillo Gamboa

 

Genaro Larrea Mota-Velasco

 

 

 

/s/ Alfredo Casar Perez

 

/s/ Daniel Muñiz Quintanilla

Alfredo Casar Perez

 

Daniel Muñiz Quintanilla

 

 

 

/s/ Luis Castelazo Morales

 

/s/ L. Miguel Palomino Bonilla

Luis Castelazo Morales

 

L. Miguel Palomino Bonilla

 

 

 

/s/ Enrique Castillo Sanchez Mejorada

 

/s/ Gilberto Perezalonso Cifuentes

Enrique Castillo Sanchez Mejorada

 

Gilberto Perezalonso Cifuentes

 

 

 

/s/ Alberto De la Parra Zavala

 

/s/ Juan Rebolledo Gout

Alberto De la Parra Zavala

 

Juan Rebolledo Gout

 

 

 

/s/Xavier Garcia de Quevedo

 

/s/ Carlos Ruiz Sacristan

Xavier Garcia de Quevedo

 

Carlos Ruiz Sacristan

 

 

 

Date:  February 25, 2011

 

 

 

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Supplemental information

 

Southern Copper Corporation

Exhibit Index

 

Sequential
Exhibit
Number

 

Document Description

 

Page
Number

 

 

 

 

 

3.1

 

(a) Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation, filed on October 11, 2005. (Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the third quarter of 2005 and incorporated herein by reference).

(b) Certificate of Amendment of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated May 2, 2006. (Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Registration Statement on Form S-4, File No. 333-135170, filed on June 20, 2006 and incorporated herein by reference).

(c) Certificate of Amendment of Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation dated May 28, 2008. (Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the second quarter of 2008 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.2

 

By-Laws, as last amended on January 27, 2011. (Filed as Exhibit 3.2 to Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 31, 2011).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.1

 

Indenture governing $200,000,000 6.375% Notes due 2015, by and among Southern Copper Corporation, The Bank of New York and The Bank of New York (Luxembourg) S.A. (Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 1, 2005 and incorporated by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.2

 

(a) 

Indenture governing $600,000,000 7.500% Notes due 2035, by and among Southern Copper Corporation, The Bank of New York and The Bank of New York (Luxembourg) S.A. (Filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 1, 2005 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

(b) 

Indenture governing $400,000,000 7.500% Notes due 2035, by and among Southern Copper Corporation, The Bank of New York, and The Bank of New York (Luxembourg) S.A. (Filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on August 1, 2005 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.3

 

Form of 6.375% Note (included in exhibit 4.1).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.4

 

Form of New 7.500% Note (included in Exhibit 4.2(a)).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.5

 

Form of New 7.500% Note (included in Exhibit 4.2(b))

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.6

 

Indenture, dated as of April 16, 2010, between Southern Copper Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, pursuant to which $400 million of 5,375% Notes due 2020 and $1.1 billion of 6.750% Notes due 2040 were issued. (Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

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4.7

 

First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 16, 2010, between Southern Copper Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, pursuant to which the 5.375% Notes due 2020 were issued.(Filed as Exhibit 4.2 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K files on April 19, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.8

 

Second Supplemental Indenture, dated as of April 16, 2010, between Southern Copper Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, pursuant to which the 6.750% Notes due 2020 were issued. (Filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.9

 

Form of 5.375% Notes due 2020. (Filed as Exhibit 4.4 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.10

 

Form of 6.750% Notes due 2040. (Filed as Exhibit 4.5 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on April 19, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.1

 

Tax Stability Agreement, dated August 8, 1994, between the Government of Peru and the Company regarding the SXEW facility (and English translation) (Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to the Company’s Registration Statement on Form S-4, as amended by Amendments No. 1 and 2 thereto, File No. 33-97790).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.2

 

Form of Directors’ Stock Award Plan of the Company. (Filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Company’s 2005 Annual Report on Form 10-K and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.3

 

Service Agreement entered into by the Company with a subsidiary of Grupo Mexico S.A.B. de C.V., assigned upon the same terms and conditions to Grupo Mexico S.A.B. de C.V. in February 2004. (Filed as Exhibit 10.10 to the Company’s 2002 Annual Report on Form 10-K and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10.4

 

Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of October 21, 2004, by and among Southern Copper Corporation, SCC Merger Sub, Inc., Americas Sales Company, Inc., Americas Mining Corporation and Minera Mexico S.A. de C.V. (Filed as Exhibit 2.1 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 22, 2004 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12.1

 

Computation of financial ratios (filed herewith).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

14.0

 

Code of Business Conduct and Ethics adopted by the Board of Directors on May 8, 2003 and amended on October 21, 2004. (Filed as Exhibit 14 to the Company’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed October 22, 2004 and incorporated herein by reference).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

21.1

 

Subsidiaries of the Company (filed herewith).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

23.1

 

Consent of Registered Public Accounting Firm (Galaz, Yamazaki, Ruiz Urquiza, S.C. - Member of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited) (filed herewith).

 

 

 

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23.2

 

Consent of Registered Public Accounting Firm (PricewaterhouseCoopers S.C.) (filed herewith).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31.1

 

Certification required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31.2

 

Certification required by Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (filed herewith).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

32.1

 

Certification required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This document is being furnished in accordance with SEC Release No. 33-8238.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

32.2

 

Certification required by Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. This document is being furnished in accordance with SEC Release No. 33-8238.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

101.INS

 

XBRL Instance Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

101.SCH

 

XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

101.CAL

 

XBRL Taxonomy Calculation Linkbase Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

101.DEF

 

XBRL Taxonomy Definition Linkbase Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

101.LAB

 

XBRL Taxonomy Label Linkbase Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

101.PRE

 

XBRL Taxonomy Presentation Linkbase Document (submitted electronically with this report).

 

 

 

192