Anglo-Australian mining giant Rio Tinto says it has sold its majority stake in South African copper producer Palabora for $US373 million ($A356 million) to Chinese and South African interests.

A binding agreement had been reached to offload its 57.7 per cent holding to a consortium led by South Africa’s Industrial Development Corporation and Chinese state-run Hebei Iron and Steel Group, it announced on Wednesday.

“Palabora is a good business but is no longer a natural fit within Rio Tinto’s portfolio,” Rio chief financial officer Guy Elliott said.

“Selling our stake reflects Rio Tinto’s policy of continually reviewing our portfolio to generate best value for shareholders.

“I expect Palabora to continue prospering under its new ownership. During the transition we will continue to run the operations efficiently and safely.”

The sale is subject to regulatory approvals in South Africa and China, expected to take four to six months.