"It won't be just China opposing the JV, the Japnese and EU all...

"It won't be just China opposing the JV, the Japnese and EU all will say NO to Rio/BHP deal"

I don't know. It will hard for them to say no by the way BHP/RIO have proposed it be structured. They are effectively combining the operations as cost centres that will deliver ore to the respective companies. Once delivered, it will be the reponsibility of each company, BHP and RIO, to sell their respective shares of production. The arrangement provides efficiencies in transport costs, future capital expenditure requirements and reduced wastage from blending of different ores.

I know the EU, Japanese and Chinese will not like it, however, it will be hard for them to prove it is anti competitive based on what is proposed.

We live in interesting times.

Regards

SP