LONDON (Commodity Online): BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto may strike a A$1 billion merger of their Canadian diamond operations as they try to find further synergies in addition to their iron ore joint venture.

BHP is thought to have sent employees to Canada to investigate how a merger of the two companies’ diamond mines could work.

While a potential merger of the diamond operations doesn’t offer the synergy benefits of the Pilbara deal, it makes sense given the remote location.

BHP is a leading global natural resources company, with a diversified commodity suite that included minerals, oil, gas and steel. One of Australia’s oldest and largest companies, it was renowned for continuously developing new operations both domestically and internationally. It was also recognised as one of Australia’s great companies.
Billiton is one of the world’s premier mining companies, with a portfolio of best-in-class mining and metals operations. Via acquisitions, expansions and new projects, it was known for its innovation and disciplined cost-efficiency in the global mining sector.

Rio Tinto is one of the world’s leading mining and exploration companies. The company mines and processes the earth’s mineral resources - metals and minerals essential for making thousands of everyday products that meet society's needs and contribute to improved living standards.

Rio Tinto is a modern-day business, committed to serving all of its stakeholders.