Japan is becoming increasingly interested in the platinum group metals (pgms') market in South Africa, it has been reported.

Toshio Sakasegawa, Executive Director and Member of state entity the Board of Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC), has suggested that mining in South Africa is set to become a major area of growth for Japanese investors in the coming years, with platinum being a major driver in that growth.

Speaking at the Mining Indaba 2007, Mr Sakasegawa said: "Exploration needs to be enhanced in the future between private companies, Japanese companies and the Japanese government."

He continued: "We are, in particular, targeting platinum group metals, nickel and zinc in Africa."

Mr Sakasegawa explained that Japan needs to invest more in the mining of pgm's and other precious metals to ensure a stable supply that is able to meet rising demand in the country.

He concluded that JOGMEC, in an effort to stake a claim in the South African mining market, is to "look at exploration opportunities using our own technologies".

Ÿ Adfero Ltd