Anglo America has revealed it plans to move further into the platinum business of China through Angloplat, the world's biggest platinum producer.

According to chief executive Tony Trahar, the firm views China as a key player in the global commodities market now, as a minerals producer as well as a customer.

Speaking at the company's AGM, Mr Trahar said: "No one with an interest in commodity markets can fail to be aware of the pivotal role of Chinese demand.

"We are also actively looking for investment opportunities within China. We are looking at further opportunities in coal and platinum."

According to Business Day Mr Trahar explained that the Chinese government's work in improving mine safety and environmental standards had "particularly encouraged" it to look into expanding platinum business there.

Good performance at the company has helped strengthen expansion plans in China, with chairman Mark Moody-Stuart explaining that 2004 had been "the best year of growth in the global economy for over 20 years".

The firm is also looking into expansion into India and Moscow.