Russian platinum group metals giant Norilsk Nickel has announced that it expects output in 2003 from its main production unit to be similar to that of recent years.

'Platinum group metals output will be roughly the same in 2003 as in the last few years, or a bit higher', said the Polar Division's deputy head, Viktor Tomenko.

This is in line with a report the Board of Directors approved in March this year, 'Production Plan to 2015'.

Although specific details were not released, the study suggested an emphasis on increasing production efficiencies, not output.

Even so, pgm production could be increased, if necessary, by the processing of stored pyrrhotite and other concentrates.