South32 extends S Africa mine closure

South32’s manganese mines in South Africa are unlikely to restart operations until January, when a major review is expected to be completed.

South32 suspended production at its Samancor Manganese joint venture mines, of which it owns a 60 per cent stake, on November 2 following a death at the Mamatwan mine.

The company, which was spun off from BHP Billiton, says a strategic review is continuing and mining activity is expected to recommence in January.

“While production will be significantly impacted in the 2016 financial year, rail and customer commitments will be met by drawing down inventory during this period,” South32 said in a statement on Wednesday.