RIO Tinto Alcan has boosted bauxite production by 21% in the second quarter of the year, compared to the same quarter in 2012.

Strong operational performance has driven higher volumes at Weipa, as bauxite requirements from the expanded Yarwun refinery at Gladstone increased, along with third party demand.

Meanwhile, Rio's alumina production was 7% higher in the same period, with greater refining capacity at Yarwun.

Aluminium production was up 15%.

In 2013, Rio Tinto Alcan's share of bauxite, alumina and aluminium production is expected to be 34 million tonnes, 7.3 million tonnes and 2.5 million tonnes, respectively.