Japan and South Africa have provisionally agreed to embark on a joint project to improve production of platinum, it has been announced.

The agreement was reached by South African Minerals and Energy Minister Buyelwa Sonjica and the Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry, according to officials cited in a report from AFP.

Japan hopes that the deal will improve the supply of platinum for use in the manufacturing process of consumer goods such as LCD screens - with demand for such materials expected to outstrip supply in the near future.

Mr Amari said: "Rare metals are important materials for use in high-tech goods. We want to cooperate with South Africa in a mutually beneficial manner."

In return, Japan is expected to provide South Africa with its technical expertise as the country seeks to build nuclear power stations in keeping with its stated aim of generating 20 per cent of its power in this way in 20 years' time.

Mr Amari will visit South Africa this month to ascertain the feasibility of joint resources developments in the country.

Source:

Japan, SAfrica agree to cooperate in rare metal production, 29/10/07

http://www.africasia.com/services/news/newsitem.php?area=africa&item=071030124522.hzezaqyx.php


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