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ZIMPLATS increased 6E concentrate production by 3% year-on-year to approximately 164,000 ounces in the first quarter of FY2027, as improved underground mining efficiencies, better plant stability and consistent ore supply supported performance following the closure of South Pit, Mining Zimbabwe can report.
By Rudairo Mapuranga
According to Impala Platinum Holdings’ (Implats) first-quarter production report for the three months ended 30 September 2026, the Zimbabwean platinum producer milled 2.02 million tonnes, representing a 2% increase from 1.98 million tonnes in the corresponding period last year.
Milled grade remained stable at 3.30 grammes per tonne (g/t), while concentrator recoveries improved by two percentage points year-on-year to 76.8%, supported by improved plant stability and consistent ore supply.
Implats said improved underground mining efficiencies compensated for ore depletion at South Pit, which closed at the end of FY2026, allowing Zimplats to maintain mined volumes despite the transition away from the open-pit operation.
The operation also completed a scheduled mill reline during the quarter and navigated intermittent power interruptions without compromising its overall production performance.
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However, 6E metal production in matte declined 3% year-on-year to approximately 139,000 ounces, reflecting the impact of scheduled furnace maintenance that commenced in September.
The 60-day furnace ring maintenance programme temporarily constrained smelting, resulting in an increase of approximately 20,000 ounces in excess 6E concentrate inventory, which stood at 43,000 ounces by the end of September.
Implats said the accumulated concentrate inventory was expected to be processed during the remainder of FY2027 as furnace operations resumed.
The distinction between concentrate and matte production is important because the increase in concentrate output reflects improved mining and processing performance, while the lower matte volumes reflect a temporary constraint at the smelting stage.
The latest performance comes as Zimplats continues implementing its mining and processing strategy following the closure of South Pit, with underground operational efficiencies becoming increasingly important in sustaining production.
The company has also maintained its FY2027 in-matte production guidance of between 630,000 and 660,000 ounces, with the planned processing of accumulated concentrate inventory expected to support production during the financial year.
Zimplats is majority-owned by Impala Platinum Holdings, which holds an 87% interest, with minority shareholders holding the remaining stake. The company operates several underground mines and processing facilities along Zimbabwe’s Great Dyke.