Russia has revealed export figures for platinum and palladium for the first time, after changes in secrecy rules came into effect.

Russia exported about 17 tonnes (547,600 troy ounces) of platinum and 127 tonnes (4.08 million ounces) of palladium, according to official customs data.

Platinum exports from the country were worth $494 million over the year, with palladium shipments bringing in $823 million.

Rhodium exports totalled 2.7 tonnes (86,800 ounces) and were worth $184 million, according to data given to Reuters.

Unfortunately no comparison figures could be provided, as the 2005 figures are the first that have been made available after a loosening of secrecy rules.

The change occurred in March 2005, when President Vladimir Putin began to allow the disclosure of data on output, sales, stocks and reserves of pgms by private producers.

Russian-based Norilsk Nickel is the top producer of palladium, which is used as a catalyst in catalytic converters and increasingly for jewellery.

Norilsk Nickel said it produced 3.133 million ounces of palladium and 751,000 ounces of platinum in 2005, Reuters said.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd