Approves Yandi Lump Project

BHP Billiton Limited
30 January 2002

BHP Billiton Limited is issuing this announcement to fulfil disclosure
obligations arising from its secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange.

    The text of this release is identical to that issued by BHP Billiton Plc
                                    earlier.



Date: 30 January 2002

Number: 04/02


                      BHP BILLITON APPROVES YANDI LUMP PROJECT

BHP Billiton today announced it had approved a project to produce a new, high
value, lump 'Pisolite' iron ore product at its Yandi mine in Western Australia.

Approval for the A$27.5 million Yandi Lump Project follows the recent signing of
Letters of Intent with a number of major Japanese customers to purchase Yandi
lump.

BHP Billiton will deliver up to four million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of lump 
'Pisolite' product, which will command a premium price over its existing fines
products.

Modifications will be made to the existing Ore Handling Plant 2 to support the
on-site production of fine and lump ores, without affecting the quality of the
two distinct products. Commissioning is expected to take place in July 2002.

BHP Billiton is currently undertaking feasibility studies to expand the Yandi
mine's capacity from its current level of 32 mtpa.

The Yandi mine has produced lump on a trial basis since 1999, already shipping
more than two million tonnes to customers. These trials indicated that Yandi
lump performance is suitable for the iron making process and provides strong
support for its permanent addition to BHP Billiton's product range.

President Western Australian Iron Ore Graeme Hunt said Yandi's lump 'Pisolite'
ore would complement growing demand for lower cost ores that maximised value to
customers.

'Since Yandi began operating in 1992, we have observed a trend towards the lower
cost 'Pisolite' and 'Marra Mamba' ores and have taken action to meet the
increase in demand,' he said.

'Today's announcement represents a key component in BHP Billiton's iron ore
product development program and will deliver long term benefits to the Group
through higher Yandi sales and an expanded suite of products.'

BHP Billiton's Yandi mine is located 110 kilometres north of Newman in Western
Australia. The mine has progressively expanded to match production at the
Group's original Mt Whaleback mine, which was developed in the late 1960s to
supply the richer 'Hematite' ore.

The Yandi Joint Venture is owned by BHP Billiton (85 per cent - Operator), CI
Minerals Australia Pty Ltd (eight per cent) and Mitsui Iron Ore Corporation Pty
Ltd (seven per cent).

                                      ****

Further news and information can be found on our Internet site:
www.bhpbilliton.com



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