Angloplat has today expressed confidence in its ability to meet production targets, despite a prolonged strike by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM).

The world's biggest platinum producer says that it expects to remain on course for its financial and production goals, predicting a total output of 2.45 million ounces of refined platinum for the whole of 2004.

It also expects to keep its cost increase per refined platinum ounce to 5.5 per cent for the year.

Angloplat spokesperson Mike Mtakati explained to I-Net Bridge that while the strike action had proved difficult he expected the company to overcome any production deficit.

Mr Mtakati commented: "We believe irrespective of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) strike, we will produce 2.45 million ounces of platinum in 2004.

"It is going to be tough to keep cost increases to 5.5 per cent, but we believe that we remain on course to achieve that target."

Yesterday the NUM accepted Angloplat's revised pay increase offer and all its members are expected to be back at work today.