Rio's aluminium arm to cut 1100 jobs

RIO Tinto Alcan, the aluminium division of mining giant Rio Tinto, says it plans to reduce its global workforce by about 1100 staff because of the economic slowdown.

"Plans are in place to reduce the workforce by approximately 1100 roles - 300 contractors and 800 employee roles," Rio Tinto said in a statement overnight.

"In addition, substantial cost reduction programs are being implemented across all Rio Tinto Alcan facilities."

Rio Tinto bought Canadian aluminium group Alcan for $US38.1 billion ($56.87 billion) in 2007.

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