BHP Billiton Sells Interest in East and West Browse Joint Ventures to PetroChina, Australia

BHP Billiton has signed a definitive agreement with PetroChina International Investment (Australia) to sell its 8.33 per cent interest in the East Browse Joint Venture and 20 per cent interest in the West Browse Joint Venture, located offshore Western Australia, for a cash consideration of US$1.63 billion.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and other customary conditions. Completion is expected in the first half of calendar year 2013.

BHP Billiton Chief Executive Petroleum, J Michael Yeager, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for both companies. PetroChina has acquired an interest in a world class gas resource and BHP Billiton has exited a non-strategic asset.”

The Browse Joint Venture participants hold a right to offer to match the transaction with respect to BHP Billiton’s interests in the East and West Browse Joint Ventures and have a customary period to consider whether to make an offer to match.

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LNG World News Staff, December 12, 2012; Image: BHP Billiton