Platinum miner Zimplats says it is in talks with the Zimbabwean government about the prospect of engaging in discussions with prospective Chinese investors.

The firm has reacted to press reports suggesting that investors are keen to establish a new refinery plant in the region, with the Chinese looking to capitalise on the wealth of natural resources in Zimbabwe.

One potential area of concern for Zimplats is the commercial viability of any refinery – with only one mine, Ngezi, being run by the firm in the country.

Chief executive Greg Sebborn told Bloomberg that he was interested to hear more about the plans for a refinery but expressed reservations about the project.

"Zimplats has a long-term expansion agenda, which includes a refinery at the appropriate volume threshold," he explained.

"This is a commercial decision for Zimplats, as a refinery running at low volumes would destroy value."

The purported refinery would be worth $100 million (R676 million) according to reports in the Financial Gazette, although details on the investors and their resources have so far been patchy.