Key findings: P2041 - Mining: Production and sales, October 2007

Mining production in October 2007 decreased by 3,0% after seasonal adjustment compared with September 2007 largely due to the closure of some shafts of platinum group metal (PGM) mines due to safety concerns. These closures resulted in the loss of PGM production of 7,8% after seasonal adjustment compared with September 2007.
The total seasonally adjusted value of mineral sales at current prices for the third quarter of 2007 reflected a decrease of 9,7% compared with the second quarter of 2007. This decrease of 9,7% (R5 657,1 million) can be attributed to a decrease of 10,1% (R4 830,4 million) in the sale of non-gold minerals and a decrease of 8,1% (R826,7 million) in the sales of gold.