The Platinum Producers Association of Zimbabwe says it has completed the feasibility study for platinum refinery, in line with government’s demand for the local beneficiation of high-value minerals prior to export.
Zimbabwe has three platinum producers, namely Unki, Mimosa and Zimplats. Zimplats CEO Alex Mhembere says work towards the establishmenat of the country’s first platinum refinery is already under way.
“The three of us – Zimplats, Unki and Mimosa – are working together to build a refinery. A feasibility study has been completed and, as we speak, work is in progress to establish a centralised refining facility.” The refinery is expected to cost at least $2-billion.
Platinum producers have been under pressure from government to take steps to beneficiate their production before export.
According to figures from the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe, platinum was one of the key drivers of the mining sector’s 35% growth in the period 2009 to 2011.
The chamber says that, as a result, the sector’s contribution to the country’s gross domestic product increased from 4% to 9% in the same period. Platinum production increased from 14 700 kg to 17 000 kg during this period.