Platinum producer Zimplats Holdings Limited recorded a 9% and 13% decline in revenue and output for the quarter July- September due to lower sales volumes.

The company recorded $133 million revenue compared to $146,8 million in the last quarter.

Revenue, however, was 21% up compared to $110 million the same period last year.

“Operating costs were 6% lower than previous quarter in line with lower production and sales volumes. Operating profit declined by 12% to $61 million mainly due to lower revenue,” the company said in a statement.

Output for the company decreased by 13% to 90 878 tonnes compared to 103 757 tonnes.

“4E metal production was thus 13% below previous quarter in line with the lower mill and furnace throughput,” the company said.

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Ore mined stood at 1 155 tonnes compared to 1 138 tonnes and operations were up from the previous quarter performance.

While milling operations were 7% below the previous quarter due to reduced operating hours, as there were planned maintenance shutdowns. Ore milled was at 1 060 tonnes from 1 137 tonnes.

Zimplats said the company power tariff increased by 60% in September and is much higher than was expected and will negatively affect future cost performance.

“Negotiations with the power utility on this issue are ongoing.”

Platinum was being sold at $1 661 per ounce during the period under review compared to $1 783 per ounce in the period April – June.

Metal prices have continued to weaken reflecting market concerns over economic stability of European countries.

The company said it is working on a revised indigenisation implementation plan and it would be submitted to the relevant authorities during this month.

The company is owned 87% by Implats and is expected to comply with the government indigenisation law. Last month, the company launched the community share ownership trust in Mhondoro Ngezi.
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