Zimbabwe's leading platinum producers have experienced a 25 per cent increase in production for the first six months of the year.

Zimplats and Mimosa Platinum recorded a combined production of 80,000oz.

South African platinum giant Impala Platinum (Implats) is the majority shareholder in both companies.

Implats added that the two firms had grossed US$72.8 million from platinum sales during the first half of the year.

Production at Zimplats increased from 39,000oz achieved during the same period last year to 45,000oz, earning them $40.9 million.

Mimosa recorded an increase of 25 per cent from 28,000oz produced during the comparative period last year to 35,000oz, earning $31.8 million.

Platinum demand has increased due to rising demand in the automobile sector, manufacturing of computer disks and LCD glass panels.

According to Zimbabwean paper The Herald, Implats said the growth in diesel vehicles in Europe and tighter emission standards had also contributed to demand.

It added that platinum is expected to overtake gold in revenue generation in Zimbabwe.

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