Angloplat's discussions with the unions over wage talks have become deadlocked according to reports.

A strike is now a distinct possibility, even coming as early as next week, with the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) warning that the two sides were at an impasse.

NUM deputy general secretary Archie Palane told Reuters that the company's management had so far failed to offer a prospective new deal.

"The ball is in management's court," he insisted.

"We have exhausted all options. Under these circumstances, we have no alternative but to go back to our members."

He went on to stress that strike action was only a 48-hour notice period away, despite positive noises emerging from an Angloplat spokesman.

Angloplat's Mike Mtkani said the firm would "continue consulting with the unions", and held out hope for reconciliation.

However, with the union currently seeking an increase of around nine per cent and Angloplat sticking to an offer of seven per cent, the prospects for resolution remain gloomy.