The latest figures from Zimbabwe have revealed that the country's platinum production increased during the first five months of 2005.

Announcing year-on-year increases of just over 80kg, the Chamber of Mines revealed that the country's platinum production has risen to 1,901kg during the period.

Expansion of operations by Zimbabwe's largest producer, Zimplats, was cited as the main reason for the boost.

The Chamber of Mines also stated it expects platinum production to increase by over 100kg in Zimbabwe this year, compared to 2004.

Zimplats is currently at the heart of a major battle between black economic empowerment groups over owning a stake in the company.

Needgate Investment recently reasserted its claim to hold a 15 per cent share of the company.

However, it is still unclear whether the Zimbabwean authorities will allow rival empowerment group and former favourite for the stake, Nkululeko Rusununguko Mining Company of Zimbabwe (NRMCZ), to take the share after it failed to raise the US$31 million required to support the bid.