Plans to increase output in Zimbabwe are still being considered, according to officials for Implats, despite delays in finalising the details.

Chief executive Keith Rumble explained that the expansion proposals would be reviewed in May, along with a feasibility report.

Implats, the second largest platinum producer in the world, aims to raise annual platinum output in the country by two thirds, taking it to 145,000 ounces, while long-term plans suggest that it could reach one million ounces.

However, before any extension can go ahead, the Zimbabwe government needs to agree to terms regarding what percentage of the stakes from foreign mining companies should be sold to local black investors, reports Reuters.

Rumours have suggested that the government may insist on 51 per cent, a situation which Mr Rumble admits would not be beneficial to the Zimplats unit.

"Whilst you say rumours abound relating to the 51 per cent, we also have seen indications to the contrary, so I think it's still very much an unknown quantity," he said.

The chief executive added that the expansion decision was not dependant on the signing of a bilateral South African-Zimbabwe investment treaty, although some progress had been made in that area.

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