Canada's Alcan opens data room to Rio Tinto, BHP Billiton

SYDNEY - Canadian aluminium producer Alcan Inc has opened its data room to Rio Tinto and BHP Billiton in an effort to fend off a 27 bln usd offer from US rival Alcoa Inc, the Sydney Morning Herald reported, citing unnamed sources.

The Herald reported that Rio Tinto and BHP are among the contenders Alcan is considering for the role of a white knight, amid reports that BHP has hired Merrill Lynch to advise it on a possible bid.

BHP and Rio Tinto have declined to comment on speculation surrounding Alcan.