en.Wedoany.com Reported - A union spokesperson said that despite progress made in negotiations between BHP and the union on Tuesday, the global mining giant's operations at Port Hedland in Western Australia will still see a two-day strike over the weekend.

BHP ships approximately $80 million worth of iron ore through Port Hedland every day. Port Hedland is the world's largest iron ore export hub.

As previously flagged last week, workers plan to impose a 24-hour ban on ship loading on Saturday, August 8, followed by a 24-hour work stoppage at Port Hedland's bulk export terminal starting at 05:30 AWST on August 9 (21:30 GMT on August 8). A union spokesperson said the action could block the shipment of 16 iron ore cargoes over the two days. BHP, the world's third-largest iron ore producer, said it has plans in place to ensure operations can continue. Around 150 workers are expected to participate in the action, with both sides working to reach terms on a four-year enterprise agreement.

A spokesperson for the Combined Ports Unions said in a statement that the meeting was productive, and although substantive issues remain unresolved, both parties have identified a path forward to be advanced over the coming weeks. The union said the industrial action would still proceed as previously flagged.

The action is not expected to affect rivals Fortescue and Hancock Prospecting, which also use Port Hedland. The port accounted for 75% of total iron ore exports from the Pilbara in the year to June.

BHP said it will present an updated proposal at its next meeting on August 18, the same day it releases its annual results. The Fair Work Commission, Australia's workplace regulator, is working with BHP and the unions to reach an agreement. BHP said that with the next meeting scheduled and an updated proposal to be submitted, it has made significant progress with the Commission's assistance, and there is no need for the unions to proceed with their planned industrial action.

BHP has been negotiating with unions representing around 450 operators and maintenance workers over a new pay agreement for more than seven months. The unions said workers are seeking enforceable wage and condition guarantees. Workers believe that extreme heat, long working hours, and time away from families mean they should not face lower pay standards than city-based workers. The dispute comes amid rising living costs and record-high BHP share prices. BHP is the world's largest listed mining company and Australia's largest listed company.