Supplies of platinum are forecast to rise by 5 per cent in 2006, to a new record of 7 million oz. 2006 will see considerable growth in production from South Africa with the opening of new mines at Everest South and Two Rivers, and expansion at Anglo Platinum.
Russian sales are expected to rise slightly from last year to 895,000 oz.
Platinum production in North America is anticipated to remain unchanged in 2006.
The platinum market will therefore be in a modest deficit of 20,000 oz for 2006, despite a decline in global jewellery demand.