Rio Tinto and Hancock Prospecting have jointly invested AUD1.61 billion in the development of the Hope Downs 2 iron ore project situated in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. The project, designed to achieve an annual production capacity of 31 million tonnes of iron ore, is anticipated to commence operations in 2027, generating a substantial number of job opportunities. Furthermore, this collaboration will enable Rio Tinto to advance towards its medium-term production capacity goals.