Rio Tinto Ltd (LSE:RIO, ASX:RIO, OTC:RTNTF) has entered negotiations to prevent a strike at its Oyu Tolgoi copper mine in Mongolia.
The potential strike is due to a dispute over worker salaries and benefits. Union representatives and government officials are participating in the discussions to resolve the issues.
"The key demand of workers is to bring wages to similar levels paid for the same type of work performed in other Rio Tinto mines," said NGO OT Watch in comments published by Reuters.
OT Watch added that workers were being paid a "miserable $1,596 per month for work far from home".
"Rio Tinto is committed to finding a resolution that benefits all parties involved," a Rio Tinto spokesperson said.
Oyu Tolgoi is a significant part of Rio Tinto's copper operations, contributing substantially to the company's output.
It has been a crucial asset in Mongolia, with significant investments and collaborations with the local government and workforce.