BHP Billiton today released a new Economic Contribution and Payments to Governments Report as part of its long-standing commitment to transparency and voluntary disclosure….[T]he new report discloses payments made to governments during the 2015 financial year on a country-by-country and project-by-project basis…“We create value for our communities and shareholders through the development of natural resources – and our tax and royalty payments are an essential part of this contribution.”…In the period, BHP Billiton’s global adjusted effective tax rate was 31.8 per cent, compared to the OECD average corporate income tax rate of 25 per cent, and the Company’s effective income tax and royalties paid rate was in excess of 45 per cent. “Tax and royalty payments are just one way in which we make a difference,” Mr Beaven said…“BHP Billiton is committed to the highest standards of corporate governance and we seek to encourage reforms that enhance disclosure and transparency around the world. “This includes support for the creation of a globally-consistent mandatory disclosure framework with formal equivalency agreements between jurisdictions.”…