BHP ends copper group chase, remains biggest producer

Led by Mike Henry, BHP has ruled out a new bid for copper producer Anglo American. (Joanna Kordina/AAP PHOTOS)

Australian mining giant BHP has walked away from plans to merge with London-headquartered copper producer Anglo American, after a fresh takeover bid failed.

Over the weekend, reports emerged in that BHP, which has been looking at options to expand its already world-leading copper production, had rekindled talks with the target after a merger attempt last year.