New statistics released today (12th February) have confirmed that pgm production in South Africa fell by 3.8 per cent over the course of 2008.

The metals were the biggest contributor to the overall 7.5 per cent decline in total annual mining production, which was the largest decrease since 2000.

However, the data - which were compiled by Pretoria-based agency Statistics South Africa - also showed that total mining for the fourth quarter was up 1.2 per cent from the previous quarter.

This figure, when seasonal adjustments are taken into account, was largely boosted by a 5.5 per cent increase in the mining levels of pgms.

South African mines were badly affected last year by the power crisis suffered by state utility Eskom, which saw a number of facilities forced to close down temporarily.

The country has suffered a poor safety record in recent years and despite improvements in 2008, safety-related closures and skills shortages also contributed to the decline in production.

Eskom only managed to operate at 90 to 95 per cent of full capacity for a lengthy period when it recovered from the crisis.

Source:

Mining production for 2008 lowest level since 2000 (12/02/09)
http://www.mg.co.za/article/2009-02-12-mining-production-for-2008-lowest-level-since-2000