Mining company Inco has announced it is anticipating strong production from its platinum operations during the third quarter of 2006.

Revealing expectations of record earnings across its entire operations for the third quarter, Inco is suggesting that its platinum production will remain on target with previous estimates.

Despite lowering its production estimates for both nickel and copper for the third quarter, the company believes it is on track to deliver just under 80,000 troy ounces of pgms during the period.

Inco explained that, while its nickel and copper operations had been adversely affected by equipment breakdowns at its Ontario and Manitoba plants, plus a strike at its Voisey's Bay operations, its platinum production had been largely unaffected by these setbacks.

Looking ahead, chairman and chief executive Scott Hand commented: "We believe that the great strength we are seeing in the nickel market will continue through the remainder of the year, and we continue to expect unprecedented earnings and cash flow in the second half of 2006."

Ÿ Adfero Ltd