Rio Tinto(US:RIO) 智通财经网·2025-11-27 06:10Core Viewpoint - Rio Tinto is seeking to divest its boron assets in the U.S., with a potential sale price of up to $2 billion, as part of a strategy to streamline its operations under new CEO Simon Trott [1][2]. Group 1: Company Strategy - The divestiture of boron assets is part of Rio Tinto's broader strategy to simplify its business and focus on high-quality assets [2]. - Under CEO Simon Trott, who took office three months ago, the company has been restructured into three departments, with a review of the minerals division, including borates [2]. Group 2: Asset Details - The boron business includes a mine and processing facility in Boron, California, a refining and shipping facility at the Port of Los Angeles, and mining operations near Owens Lake in the Sierra Nevada [1]. - Rio Tinto's California operations account for approximately 30% of global boron demand [1]. Group 3: Market Context - Boron is a critical mineral with various industrial applications, including fertilizers, glass and ceramics manufacturing, fiberglass insulation, and strengthening metal alloys [1]. - The U.S. Geological Survey has recently listed boron as a critical mineral, highlighting its importance to the U.S. economy and national security [1][2].