No go for BHP Billiton and ArcelorMittal assets jv

London: Shipping companies will be able to continue servicing BHP Billiton and ArcelorMittal's West African interests seperately after the two companies announced they have ended discussions to combine their iron ore interests in Liberia and Guinea into a single joint venture.

The companies stated that they were unable to reach a commercial agreement. "BHP Billiton and ArcelorMittal will continue to advance their iron ore interests in West Africa independently and work closely with governments and their communities," BHP Billiton said in a statement.  [10/09/10]