JSE-listed Merafe Resources' attributable ferrochrome production from the Glencore-Merafe Chrome Venture for the third quarter ended September 30 was 60 000 t, 29% lower than the 84 000 t produced in the third quarter of 2018.
The company on Monday attributed the lower production to increased planned maintenance, increased community unrest and production cutbacks in response to market conditions during the third quarter.
The company started cutting back production in June, in line with capacity utilisation of 85%; however, given weaker pricing, Merafe decided to cut output further to about 80%.
Merafe holds a 20.5% interest in the Glencore-Merafe Chrome Venture, which operates a number of ferrochrome plants in the North West, Limpopo and Mpumalanga.