Running factories, manufacturing products, and shipping goods all require natural resources such as iron, copper, and oil. As the world economy has grown, such goods have been in high demand, driving up prices. Leading the way in supplying natural resources is BHP Billiton, the world’s largest mining company.
manufacture：製造する
natural resource：天然資源
copper；銅
be in high demand：需要が大きい
BHP Billiton was formed in 2001 as a merger of two large companies: BHP (an Australian firm) and Billiton (a British firm). Both had long histories. BHP was founded in 1885. Starting with a single mine in Australia, it later branched out into steel production, ship building, gold mining, and other areas.
merger：合併、合同
ranch out：事業を広げる、活動範囲を広げる
mining：採掘、鉱山業
The other half of the merger, Billiton, also brought a proud past to the team. From its start in 1860, the company was an international player, as its first mine was in Indonesia. The company became very strong in mining metals such as lead, copper, and silver.
player：大物、大企業
lead：鉛
Along with its deep experience, BHP Billiton’s size is a key advantage. In the natural-resources industry, mines and companies often change hands. Large companies can buy new assets and fight off hungry competitors. In fact, from 1983 to 1986, a competitor tried (and failed) to buy BHP four different times. It no longer seems likely that BHP Billiton, with a stock value of more than $175 billion, will be devoured by another company.
deep：(経験が)豊かな
change hands：持ち主が変わる
(ref.) change trains：電車を乗り換える
(ref.) change buses：バスを乗り換える
(ref.) change seats：席を替わる
(ref.) give X a hand：Xに手を貸す
asset：資産
fight off：撃退する
devour：貧り食う、飲み込む
Another key concern is bad weather, which can shut down mines. With assets worldwide, BHP Billiton can reduce the impact of poor weather. Consider the nine months period ending in March 2006, one of the best ever for the company. Despite serious weather problems, nickel production was still at a record high . While one nickel mine was affected by heavy rains, another mine increased production.
be at a record high：過去最高である
(ref.) record 記録的な、空前の
The recent rise in resource prices has meant amazing profits for BHP Billiton. (It earned profits of $13.7 billion in 2007.) However, just as prices can rise, so can they fall. Also, the company must deal with environmental groups demanding cleaner and safer mines. With operations in 25 countries , BHP Billiton is in a strong position to face these challenges while holding onto the top spot in its industry.
as X, so Y：Xと同様にYも
challenge：課題、難問
hold onto X：Xを離さない、Xにしがみつく
the top spot：第１位