Mining and Metallurgical Company (MMC) Norilsk Nickel announces 2004 preliminary production figures.

MMC Norilsk Nickel increased total nickel production to 243 thousand metric tons for the year ending 31 December 2004, from 239 thousand metric tons in 2003. Production was consistent quarter-on-quarter at 61, 61, 59, and 62 thousand metric tons for Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 respectively. 

2004 total copper production remained stable at 447 thousand metric tons compared to 451 thousand metric tons in 2003. Steady operations resulted in consistent quarterly production at 110, 112, 112, and 113 thousand metric tons for Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 respectively. 

Tav Morgan, Deputy General Director of MMC Norilsk Nickel informs that expected production for 2005 remains unchanged from 2004, calling for an estimated 240 to 245 thousand metric tons of nickel and 440 – 450 thousand metric tons of copper.