Teck Resources Ltd (TECK.US) announced a significant nearly 20% increase in profit for the third quarter, as rising metal prices offset the impact of production interruptions at its key copper mine in Chile. The Canadian mining company is poised for acquisition by Anglo American plc, a deal that will create one of the largest mining corporations globally, positioning it as a key supplier amid growing copper demand. However, Teck has faced challenges in ramping up production at its Quebrada Blanca mine located in the Andes mountains of Chile. In a statement, Teck reported that its adjusted core earnings climbed to CAD 1.17 billion (approximately USD 836 million), up from CAD 986 million during the same period last year, driven by increases in copper and zinc prices along with higher byproduct revenues. Q3 revenues rose 18% year-on-year to CAD 3.38 billion. Following a recent production cut earlier this month, the company reiterated its production guidance for the Quebrada Blanca mine. Teck is restructuring its tailings facilities, a project currently impacting output, aimed at achieving higher long-term production targets. The mine's copper output in the third quarter fell nearly 25% year-on-year to 39,600 tons, with September production alone at just 5,600 tons due to a 20-day shutdown.