Amplats ups Q1 PGM production 8% to 1.2m oz

Anglo American Platinum (AmPlats) has lifted total platinum group metals (PGM) production for the quarter ended 31 March by 8% to 1.28 million ounces. Total platinum production increased 7% to 613 800 ounces and total palladium production increased 9% to 407 400 ounces.

The company said in a results statement on Tuesday that own-mined PGM production (excluding from the Union operation) increased 18% to 580 400 ounces due to an “exceptional” performance from Mogalakwena, in the North West.

Joint venture PGM production (mined and purchase of concentrate) increased 14% to 298 000 ounces due to strong performances from all operations, while the purchase of PGM concentrate from associates was down 25%.

Refined PGM production decreased 11% to 1.01 million ounces, primarily due to planned maintenance in February at the Anglo Converter Plant.

PGM sales volumes was in line with the prior period, at 1.15 million ounces.