BHP said that its Chile Escondida copper mine will launch a new round of job cuts and plans to layoffs are about 90 workers, due to continued falling of copper prices, copper prices have dropped by more than 30% in the past 12 months. 

The company also indicated that the layoffs will be able to improve productivity and cut costs from whole company. Workers protest will be continued to proceed, however, union leader would consult with company representatives. 

• [Editor:Chen Zhen Seng]