Zimbabwe's platinum production is set to grow by as much as 30 per cent this year compared to 2005, it has been claimed.

Figures released by ZB Financial Holdings have forecast an increase of 30 per cent on last year's production levels as Zimbabwe aims to substantially increase its wealth from mining projects.

The bank revealed: "Assuming that the current platinum output levels are maintained, the platinum output could increase by more than 30 per cent to about 5,200 kilogrammes in 2006."

The prediction comes following an announcement from Zimbabwe's Chamber of Mines earlier this month which said that platinum production had seen a seven per cent increase during the first nine months of 2006 compared to the same period last year.

ZB Financial Holdings also commented that there is a good opportunity for growth in platinum production in the medium-term, with Impala Platinum continuing to plough resources into the development of its platinum operations in Zimbabwe.

Ÿ Adfero Ltd